Best Toys for Golden Retrievers

Golden Retrievers love to play. They are just one of those breeds that could play all day, every day, with energy left over. 

That’s why we’re looking for the best toys for Golden Retrievers – to help you find the perfect fit for your golden energy machine. 

We’re looking at what makes certain toys popular and why you’re doggo might love them. 

So, grab the treats, and let’s have some fun!

9 Best Toys for Golden Retrievers

1. BarkBox – The Best Dog Toy Subscription Service

A bored dog is a destructive dog, that much we know. Sometimes, your pup can get bored pretty quickly, regardless of the toys you provide. 

BarkBox is here to save the day. They send your Golden Retriever new and exciting toys each month to keep them intrigued. 

The subscription gets hold of the newest and best toys on the market, a great way to try them out without breaking the bank. 

Plus, treats are included, which your pup will be super happy about. The monthly box contains two toys, two treats, and a chew. 

All that sounds expensive, doesn’t it? 

Have no fear. BarkBox will only set you back between $20-$35 per box, depending on if you take a year’s subscription at once or pay monthly. That’s a small price to pay for your beloved furry pal. 

But what if I have an extreme chewer? 

No problem. BarkBox has a Superchewer option, so you’ll only get products that fit your dog’s needs. 

Regardless of the option, there will be a fun theme every month to keep things interesting. 

Some recent themes include:

• Fast Food. 
• The Christmas season.
• Outer space. 

If you’re looking for our opinion of the best toys for Golden Retrievers, this is it. BarkBox gives you so many options and will keep your doggy entertained. 

Pros:

• Massive variety. 
• Personalized to your dog. 
• The Superchewer option is available.
• Affordable. 

Cons:

• It can create a lot of waste. 

2. Outward Hound Nina Ottosson Dog Brick – Best Interactive Dog Puzzle

Golden Retrievers are intelligent, so this puzzle is the perfect solution to keep their brains going throughout the day. 

Say goodbye to boredom and hello to a smarter, happier pup. The Outward Hound Nina Ottosson Dog Brick is a four-level dog puzzle. It provides dogs with a treat once they figure it out. 

There are four puzzle toys from easy to expert, so your pup can level up once they figure out all the obstacles. 

Your Golden Retriever will learn to slide, flip, and lift compartments to receive a well-deserved reward. 

These puzzle toys are great for teaching your Golden Retriever positive play, showing that hard work will pay off in the end. 

The toys are BPA, PVC, and phthalate-free, so there is no need to worry about your Golden Retriever really going for the treats. The materials are non-toxic and totally safe for dogs. 

However, you should never leave your dog unattended when they’re playing. While these puzzle toys are tough, Golden Retrievers have a knack for breaking off small pieces. 

Cleaning up is easy; you simply wash the puzzle with warm water and soap after each use. This puzzle is by far one of the best toys for Golden Retrievers. 

Pros:

• Non-toxic materials.
• Teaches discipline.
• Reduces unwanted behaviors. 
• Options to level up. 

Cons:

• Some smaller pieces might be a choking hazard. 

3. Cheerble Upgraded Smart Interactive Dog Toy – Best Electronic Dog Toy

This is the right choice if you’re looking for the best toys for Golden Retrievers that can’t sit still. It will keep your dog busy and give you some peace and quiet for a few hours. 

The Cheerble Upgraded Smart Interactive Dog Toy is an interactive ball with three modes (gentle, passive, and normal). You can set the ball to move, shake, and bounce based on your pup’s activity level. 

Dogs love to play fetch, and the LED lights keep their attention and promote curiosity. 

As one of the best interactive toys for Golden Retrievers, you best believe it comes with all the right stuff. The shell consists of TPU and natural rubber that is non-toxic and BPA-free. So, you can rest assured there won’t be damage to your Gold Retrievers teeth or overall health. 

This fun toy is made specifically for medium to large dogs, making it the perfect addition to your Golden Retriever dog toy collection. 

There is a long battery life with one hour charge giving your four hours of playtime. But be aware that the ball is active for ten-minute sessions. It goes into a 30-minute rest period after ten minutes of play. 

But the best part has to be that this interactive dog toy is suitable for indoor and outdoor play. So wherever you are, you can bond with your golden fur ball. 

This is the second generation, so it is quieter, lighter, and bouncier than the previous model. All these improvements make this one of the best toys for Golden Retrievers. 

Comparing toy balls for dogs, the Cheerble Upgraded Smart Interactive Dog Toy is a good choice for dogs that enjoy shorter playtime. The Wobble Wag Giggle Ball below doesn’t need batteries, meaning dogs can play for as long as they want.

Pros:

• Long battery life.
• Non-toxic materials.
• Good quality. 
• Suitable for indoor and outdoor play. 

Cons:

• The play sessions are time limited. 

4. Wobble Wag Giggle Ball – Best Interactive Dog Ball

If you’ve got a ball-obsessed Golden Retriever, you aren’t alone. That’s where the Wobble Wag Giggle Ball comes in. 

The ball makes a giggle sound when moving, sending dogs into play mode quicker than you can say “fetch!”

Material-wise, the ball is made with phthalate-free vinyl that is durable and flexible. Plus, the six clutch pockets on the surface make it easy for your pup to pick up and bring back. 

The best part? There aren’t any batteries; the sound comes from tubes on the inside that make the sound. So, no more disappointed puppy eyes while waiting for the toy to charge. 

Playing catch with your pup is a great way to bond. It gives you and your Golden pup a chance to spend quality time together while they learn about positive play. 

So, grab your Wobble Wag Giggle Ball and go outside to play fetch with your furry friend. 

Pros:

• No batteries.
• Enticing sound. 
• Easy to grip clutch pockets. 
• Made with durable phthalate-free vinyl.

Cons:

• Not suitable for unsupervised play. 

5. Best Pet Supplies 2-in-1 Stuffless Squeaky Dog Toys-Best Squeaky Dog Toy

This is a two-in-one with soft plush toys that make a squeaking sound when touched. Dogs absolutely love them, taking the plush toys along for any adventure. 

There is no stuffing, so you don’t have to worry about walking into the house to fluff all over the bed. 

You can choose between various animals. Some popular options include a duck, cow, raccoon, and pig. 

These soft plush toys are absolutely adorable and can be quite a comfort for some dogs. Don’t be surprised if they snuggle with their new fluffy buddy after playtime. 

We like these plush toys because they come in various sizes. So, you can get one for your puppy and large dogs. It’s fun for the entire fur family. 

If you’ve got a heavy chewer, don’t stress. The material is super durable, with no stuffing. Meaning it can take quite a beating without tearing apart. 

The materials are 100% toxin-free and take a simple cycle in the washing machine to clean. No long cleaning marathons at the kitchen sink. It’s simple and easy, just the way we like it. 

You can even place a plastic bottle or something similar in the opening at the bottom to make the plush toys even more enticing. 

The Best Pet Supplies 2-in-1 Stuffless Squeaky Dog Toys are a good choice for slightly larger dogs. In contrast, the Snuggle Puppy Heartbeat Stuffed Toy for Dogs is specifically for puppies.

Pros:

• Durable. 
• Easy to clean. 
• Non-toxic materials. 
• Option to add additional play items in the opening. 
• Multiple size options.  

Cons:

• Extremely heavy chewers might go through one toy quickly. 

6. Snuggle Puppy Heartbeat Stuffed Toy for Dogs-Best Toy for a Golden Retriever Puppy

If you’ve welcomed a new little golden addition to your fur family, congratulations! Now that you’re part of the proud dog owners club, it’s time to get serious about finding the best toys for Golden Retrievers. 

Being a puppy is tough. Everything is new, including figuring out this whole sleep time thing. Puppies nap a lot. They’re growing and need all the help they can get. With that in mind, check out the best dog bed for a Golden Retriever.

The Snuggle Puppy Heartbeat Stuffed Toy for Dogs is here to help. The plush toy acts as a soother, mimicking your puppy’s mom’s heartbeat. 

This is important because the mom’s heartbeat soothes baby pups to sleep. So, this toy comes in handy for nights when your puppy struggles to sleep. 

Having a new puppy running around is almost like a toddler. You have to be so careful about what you leave out. If it’s on the floor, it will end up in their mouth. 

The Snuggle Puppy Heartbeat Stuffed Toy for Dogs is a good distraction. Plus, it uses human-friendly materials, so you know it’s safe. 

The heartbeats come in two modes, requiring only AAA batteries to get going. Additionally, the heat pack soothes your pup. 

This fantastic toy has helped over one million dogs since its inception in 1997. There’s no need to run around with clocks under pillows or fidgety gadgets. This tried and tested product is an absolute must for little Golden Retriever puppies. It reduces their anxiety and yours, so well worth the money in our book. 

Comparing plush toys, the Snuggle Puppy Heartbeat Stuffed Toy for Dogs is a better option for little dogs. In comparison, the Best Pet Supplies 2-in-1 Stuffless Squeaky Dog Toys are a good option for older pups.

Pros:

• Reduces anxiety. 
• Heat pack included.
• Long-lasting. 
• A tried and tested brand. 

Cons:

• You must supervise your puppy to ensure they don’t get into the batteries. 

7. Kong Classic – Best Chew Toy for Golden Retrievers With Heavy Bites

This OG is the best dog toy for puppers with a strong bite. The Golden Retriever has a bit force of 190 pounds per square inch. That is some serious force for a dog toy to contend with. 

The Kong Classic is one of the most durable chew toys on the market. Your golden pup can go at it for hours without making a dent. 

This should relieve those worried about their Retriever going after their beloved furniture. 

This almost indestructible dog toy is an excellent option for playing fetch. It has an unpredictable bounce, creating hours of fun for intelligent dogs that have figured out the bounce of their standard ball. 

It is made from highly durable rubber that can take on pretty much any bite. It’s a wonderful solution for teething dogs as the hard rubber rubs itchy gums. 

Additionally, you can fill the Kong Classic with treats, making for an even more exciting and challenging game of fetch. 

The chew toy comes in sizes from extra small to XXL. So whether you have a puppy or a fully-grown Retriever, there are Kong chew toys for all life phases. 

The Kong Classic can help with teething gums, but that’s not its primary selling point. It’s more targeted toward heavy chewers. However, the Benebone Wishbone Durable Dog Chew below is a good option for teething puppies.

Pros:

• Extremely durable. 
• Variety of sizes.
• Option to fill with treats. 
• Great for teething. 

Cons

• Nothing to hold the treats in place.

8. Benebone Wishbone Durable Dog Chew-Best Chew Toy for a Golden Retriever

Dogs are part of the family; there is no question about it. But they aren’t human, so they might need extra help in the dental department. 

That’s where the best chew toys come in. They can remove plaque and relieve itchy gums from teething to keep your pup’s smile gleaming. That is, after all, what the Golden Retriever is known for. 

To keep that goofy smile looking its best, we recommend trying the Benebone Wishbone Durable Dog Chew. 

The chew toy consists of nylon, a durable material that can handle extreme wear and tear. Plus, it uses real bacon, so it takes all but 0.5 seconds for Golden Retrievers to start chewing. 

While it is sturdy, you must ensure you replace the toy if there are any loose pieces. No matter how strong a toy is, there is a chance for little bits to become a choking hazard. 

Compared to the Kong Classic, the Benebone Wishbone Durable Dog Chew isn’t as durable. But the shape of the toy is better for itching gums.

Pros:

• Durable. 
• Good for dental health.
• Uses real bacon. 

Cons:

• Heavy chewers might get through the toy quickly. 

9. Fida Dog Rope Toys – Best Rope Toy for Golden Retrievers

Ropes are a classic for active dogs that enjoy a good tug-of-war session. While some feel it promotes aggressive behavior. Tugging is essential to promoting healthy stimulation for your Retriever.

The Fida Dog Rope Toys is three feet long and has five knots. This is important to give your pup something to hold onto while playing. Loose rope can be a dangerous choking hazard, so always ensure the knots are in place. 

This nearly indestructible rope is made with 100% cotton. We love this; it’s washable and can prevent fraying. 

While all ropes will eventually become unusable, the Fida Dog Rope Toys last much longer than regular toy ropes. Plus, you can choose between a single-knotted rope or a double. 

We’d recommend the double for adult Golden Retrievers. So, grab your rope and enjoy hours of fun bonding time with your pup. 

Pros:

• Made with 100% cotton. 
• Easy to wash. 
• Two variations are available. 
• Lasts longer than regular toy ropes. 

Cons:

• Smaller pieces may be a choking hazard. 

Things to Consider Before Buying Toys for Your Golden Retriever

• Age: One of the most significant factors to consider is your dog’s age. A toy suitable for an adult Retriever will be very different from those meant for a puppy. The size and materials of the dog toys differ based on the targeted age. 
• Bite force: If you have an adult gold retriever, you best believe they’ve got a pretty hardcore bit force. It’s not likely you’ll ever see the full force because of this breed’s sweet nature. But still, you need to ensure the dog toy you select can handle the heat. Playful pups can really go at it when the toys come out during playtime. 
• Size: One of the biggest mistakes you can make is purchasing a dog toy that is too big or too small for your pup. Even the best dog toys for Golden Retrievers need to be the right size. If they’re too small, they become a genuine choking hazard. If they’re too big, they may damage your dog’s bite. 
• Materials: A good thing to remember when you have a dog is that whatever is lying on the floor will eventually end up in your dog’s mouth. Now, based on that, think about the types of materials you would want your dog to play with. There are many options with plastic, rope, and vinyl. But be sure to ensure that these materials are chemical-free.  
• End goal: There are different types of dog toys. An interactive food reward toy is to keep your dog intrigued and help train them to a certain degree. A plush toy, on the other hand, is more for comfort and active play. So, think about your end goal and how that might affect the type of dog toy you purchase. 

Golden Retrievers—Safety Tips

• Supervision: Dog owners, you know your pup getting hurt is your worst nightmare. That’s why you must supervise playtime with your dog. Obviously, you can’t be there all the time, but try to be in the same room when toys are involved. Even keeping half an eye out is better than nothing. 
• Look at your dog’s bite force: A heavy chewer will get through more chew toys than the average dog. So, this is something to consider when buying toys. If you know your dog bites through chew toys quickly, then supervision is a must. Try to engage in dog play sessions throughout the day to prevent boredom and unwanted chewing. 
• Keep it clean: Do you wash your knives and forks after they’ve been in your mouth? Dog toys are no different. The mouth is a breeding ground for bacteria. Try your best to clean your dog’s toys after every use. But even every third use is better than not cleaning them at all. 

FAQs

What do Golden Retrievers like to chew on? 

Just about anything. Some favorites are rope, chew toys, and rubber balls. It depends on the age and dental health of the dog at the end of the day. If you’ve got an adult Retriever with good teeth, they will do well with hard vinyl or rubber. A puppy is a different story. They need small and softer toys like mini chew toys to help with teething and keeping teeth clean. 

What is the best toy for a Golden Retriever puppy? 

In our opinion, the Snuggle Puppy Heartbeat Stuffed Toy for Dogs is your best bet. The soft materials and heartbeat sounds will help reduce anxiety for a small pup. Yes, they like to run around, but they’ll do a lot more napping in those first few months. 

How do I know which toy is suitable for my Golden Retriever? 

This is a tough one because all dogs are different. That’s why we recommend BarkBox. It’s a dog toy and treats monthly subscription service. There is such a large variety of toys that finding a few your dog adores is simple and stress-free. 

Our Final Verdict

Finding the right dog toy for your Golden Retriever can be a hit or a miss. Some love tugging on ropes, while others prefer to chase around a ball. 

That’s why the winner on our best toys for golden retrievers list isn’t a specific toy but a toy subscription that will help you find the perfect fit. 

BarkBox is a fantastic service that will help your doggo with all their toy needs. Once you’ve found some good options, you can let them know, and you’ll receive similar items in the future. 

But if that doesn’t sound like a good fit, other options on our list are super popular. So, try some of them out and enjoy quality playtime with your doggy. 

At the end of the day, they want to bond with us, and playtime is a big part of that. For more info on your pup, have a look at our other Barksinthepark resources.