Finding a quality dog toy that is safe, durable and interesting to your dog is quite a tall order these days. After so many reports about dangerous China-made stuff, most pet owners know that any buying dog supplies online, and especially dog toys made in America can give you a peace of mind. Regulations in the US are more strict than in places like China. Now we've picked the best dog toys made in USA that may be a safer choice for your Fido.
If your puppy or adult dog goes through a lot of pet toys on a regular basis, then you've probably realized that they are not all made to the same quality standard. Depending on how your dog likes to play, you'll need to choose an appropriate dog toy that will meet his needs. Does he like to chew? Does he like to fetch, play tug? Let's search!
You can find cheap chew toys for just $1-$2, but how many of them are safe for dogs? Safety of dog toys is not the only concern, either. While it may seem like a great deal, from my personal experience, most of these one dollar dog toys last only a day or two, and dogs quickly eat them up.
In this article, I would like to talk a little about the safety and quality of dog toys made in China versus dog toys made in America. I've also done the research and picked out five best dog toys made in the USA that we'll cover further in this article:
| USA Dog Toy Brand | Price | Quality | Rating |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chuckit! Medium Ultra Balls 2.5-Inch | $$ | A | 4.6/5 |
| KONG Classic Dog Toy | $$ | B+ | 4.6/5 |
| Benebone Bacon Flavored Wishbone Chew Toy | $ | A- | 4.7/5 |
| KONG Extreme Rubber Ball | $$$ | A+ | 4.7/5 |
| Duke's Digs Tug of War Dog Chew Toy | $ | B- | 4.2/5 |
* Click on the USA dog toy brand for more information and prices, or scroll down below for more details.
Are all dog toys made in China unsafe?
No. According to the reports from APPA and Ecology Center, only some manufacturers use ingredients in making dog toys that may be toxic to dogs. However, because the regulations in China on manufacturing toys for pets are very loose, buying cheap ones from there may expose you to high risk.
Things pet owners should watch out for is BPA, philates, lead and other toxic ingredients. Fortunately, regulations in the USA on manufacturing pet toys and toys for children are very strict, and most of the harmful substances have been banned, as per CPSC.
Generally, it's more or less safe to say that majority of dog toys made in America, or at least dog toys made in USA specifically, are safe for puppies and adult dogs. However, here's the challenge: most companies outsource manufacturing of their dog supplies, and especially toys for dogs. So how do you know which dog toys are made in the USA?
We've done some research, and found top dog toy choices that are great for puppies, adult dogs and senior dogs. Besides safety and being American made, we've also made sure to pick dog toys that are fun and durable yet still affordable. Dog toys made in USA are not only safe, but they're also faster to ship and have better customer support.
Top 5 Best Dog Toys Made in USA
American made: a safer choice for our pets
1Chuckit! Ultra Balls
The Chuckit! Ultra Ball is smarter than your average ball. With a high spring in its bounce, it makes for a stimulating game of fetch. And it’s not just for throwing in the park. The Ultra Ball floats too. It’s the ideal toy for water-loving retrievers. Say goodbye to grubby, slobber-covered tennis balls. The Ultra Ball is as practical as it is fun. Made from high quality and durable materials, this is a high visibility ball that’s easy to wash and can withstand a lot of chewing.
- USA dog toys reviews: Read reviews of other pet owners
One of the best dog toys made in USA, the Ultra Ball caters to dogs of all sizes and is available in small (2”), medium (2.5”), large (3”), X-large (3.5”) and XX-large (4”). When purchasing this ball, you can choose from one and two-pack options. It's also compatible with the Chuckit! Dog Toy Launcher for a long-distance game of fetch.
Dog owners report their pets favor this toy not just for fetching but also for chewing. It fairs pretty well on this front too, with reports of it surviving quite a battering from the most destructive of jaws. From a dog owner’s perspective, Chuckit! Ultra Balls are a hit because they're easy to keep clean and suitable for both land and water, making them a very versatile dog toy.
Owners of very heavy chewers have been disappointed with this product. The seams are weak, giving any persistent dog an entry point for teeth. Really heavy chewers can bite chunks off this ball in no time. There are also reports of the plug that connects the two halves of the ball coming loose and posing a choke/intestinal hazard. A small percentage of reviewers have found this product to be on the heavy side, making it less suitable for smaller dogs.
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Most helpful dog owners' review (read the full Amazon review + VIDEO): “These balls have been a big hit with my German Shepherd Dog since the moment they arrived today. My dog hasn't popped…”
2KONG Classic Dog Toy
KONG toys make excellent therapy toys to combat boredom and behavioral issues such as separation anxiety. Stuff it with tasty food or treats and pop it in the freezer overnight and you have the perfect poochy popsicle. Rover will forget that he’s missing you as he spends hours working out how to get at every last morsel. When he drops it to dislodge a treat, he’ll be surprised as it randomly bounces in a different direction every time.
- USA dog toys reviews: Read reviews of other pet owners
This KONG toy also makes for a fun game of fetch. If your dog prefers chewing to retrieving then the KONG Classic has that covered too. It's one of the best dog toys made in USA, as it's formulated with puncture-resistant rubber. There are very few toys that can match its durability.
The KONG Classic is available in X-small, small, medium, large, X-large and XX-large. For very heavy chewers it’s advisable to opt for the larger KONG Extreme. Dog owners, vets and dog trainers widely report that the KONG Classic is a great source of stimulation for dogs. Many have used the KONG Classic Dog Toy successfully as a therapeutic tool for overcoming difficult behaviors that arise from boredom and separation anxiety.
Whilst the majority of dogs go mad for a stuffed KONG, some dogs are put off but it’s rubbery smell. It’s not the easiest thing to clean either. Some owners question how hygienic this product is after a number of uses. Owners of very heavy chewers have also found that this KONG toy can be destroyed in minutes.
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3Benebone Bacon Flavored Wishbone Chew Toy
Dogs go crazy for the 100% bacon flavoring in this nylon Benebone chew toy. Its patented wishbone shape allows your furry friend to pop one end of the bone up for an easier chew experience. Deep grooves provide a good bite.
- USA dog toys reviews: Read reviews of other pet owners
You’ll be helping other dogs to have a better life when you buy this product too. Benebone supports canine welfare, with a particular focus on dog shelters across the USA.
Owners who have bought this product have been impressed that dogs seem to go mad for the flavor, yet it has no scent to the human nose. Unlike edible flavored bones, the Benebone Bacon Flavored Wishbone Chew Toy doesn’t leave residue on carpet either. Many owners have said that this is their dog’s ‘go to’ toy that occupies them for hours.
Owners of very heavy chewers have deemed the Benebone unsuitable for their dogs. Some report that large pieces break off, posing a potential choke or intestinal hazard. Others have found that the toy ‘roughs up’, causing gums to bleed. There have also been cases of dogs chipping and breaking teeth when chewing a Benebone.
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4KONG Extreme Rubber Ball
The KONG Extreme Rubber Ball is the ultimate bouncy ball for dogs that like to play hard. Made from puncture-resistant rubber, KONG claims that this ball is more durable than any other on the market. This heavy-duty ball has an extreme bounce and is designed for outdoor use.
- USA dog toys reviews: Read reviews of other pet owners
The Extreme Rubber Ball is available in two sizes – small (2.5”) and medium/large (3”). If you decide to buy these best dog toys made in USA, you can choose from one or two-pack options.
The majority of reviewers rate the KONG Extreme Rubber Ball as the best dog play ball available. Dogs that have destroyed all other balls have had a hard time shredding this one. Some owners put this down to the shape and size of the ball causing the dog to salivate – the dog can’t get enough purchase to bite down with full force.
Reviewers only really have one consistent issue with the KONG Extreme Rubber Ball – it’s not quite extreme enough. It may be the most durable option on the market but it’s definitely not indestructible. There are numerous reports of power chewers getting through this in minutes – owners would be wise to stick to fetch games with this toy.
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5Duke's Digs Tug of War Dog Chew Toy
This is an interactive rope toy with a difference – it’s made from 100% quality fleece. Unlike most tug ropes on the market this one from Duke's Digs won’t fray. It’s gentle on puppy’s teeth and your hands, making it great for teething, whitening teeth and promoting general dental health. It’s soft enough to be a comforter too.
- USA dog toys reviews: Read reviews of other pet owners
This Tug of War Dog Chew makes an excellent choice of durable toy for interactive bonding and training. It is made from recycled bottles and is non-toxic. It can be machine-washed and tumble dried for easy care. In fact, each wash actually strengthens the fabric of the Duke's Digs Tug of War Dog Chew Toy!
With its different shapes and textures, the Tug of War Chew has been a hit with many puppies. The majority of reviewers found it to be very hard wearing too, favoring it over traditional rope toys that fray quickly.
Owners of power chewers didn’t rate this product highly. There are reports of dogs chewing through the rope in minutes, particularly the knot. However, as you can see, this is a common complaint with all the best dog chew toys made in USA.
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