7 Best Toys for Golden Retrievers: Keep Them Happy & Active

Golden Retrievers are known for their friendly nature and high energy. These dogs need lots of play and exercise to stay happy and healthy. Picking the right toys can make a big difference in keeping your dog active and content.

The best toys for Golden Retrievers combine physical activity with mental stimulation. This mix helps tire them out and keeps them from getting bored. Good toys can also help with training and bonding. Remember to supervise your Golden Retriever during playtime. Check the toy regularly for any wear and tear to ensure it remains safe for your pet. Let’s look at some top toy choices:

1. KONG Classic Dog Toy

The KONG Classic Dog Toy is a must-have for Golden Retrievers. This durable rubber toy has been a favorite since the 1970s. It’s perfect for your Golden’s strong jaws and love of chewing.

• You can stuff the KONG with treats or peanut butter, keeping your dog busy and mentally stimulated.
• KONG is great for reducing boredom and preventing destructive behavior.
• The KONG Classic bounces unpredictably making fetch games more exciting.
• The toy comes in different sizes, so choose one that’s the right proportion for your dog.
• KONG is safe for puppies and adult dogs alike.
• These toys are veterinarian-recommended and help promote dental health by cleaning teeth and massaging gums during chewing.

2. Outward Hound Hide-A-Squirrel

The Outward Hound Hide-A-Squirrel is a fun and engaging toy for your Golden Retriever. It’s a plush puzzle toy that taps into your dog’s natural hunting instincts.

• This toy features a stuffed tree trunk with holes and several squeaky squirrels.
• You can hide the squirrels in the trunk for your Golden to find and pull out.
• The Hide-A-Squirrel offers two ways to play. You can use it for fetch by tossing the squirrels, or set it up as a puzzle for your dog to solve.
• The squirrels make a satisfying squeaking sound when squeezed, which many dogs find exciting.
• It’s a good starter puzzle toy for dogs new to these types of games.

Golden Retrievers are smart dogs who love a good challenge. This toy helps keep them mentally stimulated and physically active as they figure out how to get the squirrels.

3. Chuckit! Ultra Ball

Golden Retrievers love to play fetch, and the Chuckit! Ultra Ball is perfect for this activity. This ball is durable and made to withstand your dog’s strong jaws.

• The Chuckit Ultra Ball is bright orange, making it easy to spot during outdoor play.
• It’s also designed to bounce high and float in water, which is ideal for Golden Retrievers who enjoy swimming.
• You can use this ball with a Chuckit! launcher to throw it farther, giving your dog more exercise.
• The ball is easy to clean and doesn’t collect dirt or slobber like regular tennis balls.

4. Nylabone Power Chew Textured Ring

Golden Retrievers love to chew, and the Nylabone Power Chew Textured Ring is perfect for them. This tough dog chew toy is made for aggressive chewers.

• The ring shape makes it easy for your Golden Retriever to grab and hold.
• A textured surface helps clean your dog’s teeth as they chew.
• Made from durable nylon, this toy can withstand your Golden’s strong jaws.
• The Nylabone Power Chew Textured Ring has a tasty flavor that dogs love.
• This toy is proudly made in the United States.

5. Benebone Wishbone Chew Toy

Golden Retrievers love to chew, and the Benebone Wishbone is perfect for satisfying this urge. This toy is made in the USA with real bacon, giving it an irresistible flavor your dog will love.

• The unique wishbone shape makes it easy for your Golden to grab and hold onto while chewing.
• The Benebone is designed to withstand heavy chewing, so it’ll last longer than many other toys.
• It’s great for keeping them occupied when you’re busy or can’t give them your full attention.
• The Benebone Wishbone is also helpful for maintaining your dog’s dental health because as your Golden chews, it helps clean their teeth and massage their gums.

6. ZippyPaws Skinny Peltz No Stuffing Squeaky Toy

Golden Retrievers love to play, and the ZippyPaws Skinny Peltz toys are perfect for them. These toys have no stuffing, which means less mess for you if your dog tears them apart.

• The set comes with three different animals: a fox, raccoon and squirrel.
• Each toy has multiple squeakers, which will keep your Golden Retriever interested and engaged.
• These toys are great for tugging, fetching, and squeaking. Your Golden will enjoy carrying them around and shaking them to hear the squeakers.
• The Skinny Peltz toys are soft and cuddly, making them comfortable for your dog to hold in their mouth.
• They’re also machine washable, so you can keep them clean and fresh.
• The large size is suitable for most Golden Retrievers, but you can also choose a smaller size for puppies or smaller dogs.

7. West Paw Zogoflex Hurley Dog Bone

The West Paw Zogoflex Hurley Dog Bone is a top choice for Golden Retrievers. This durable and bouncy toy is perfect for dogs who love to chew and play fetch.

• Your Golden Retriever will enjoy the Hurley’s tough Zogoflex material.
• It’s made to withstand strong chewers and is safer than wood sticks.
• The Hurley floats, making it great for water-loving Golden Retrievers. You can use it for games in the pool or at the beach.
• This toy is non-toxic and FDA-compliant, ensuring your dog’s safety during playtime.
• It’s also latex-free and BPA-free.
• The Hurley is easy to clean. You can simply toss it in the dishwasher after a day of play.
• West Paw offers a guarantee on their Zogoflex toys. If your Golden Retriever manages to damage it, you can get a replacement.

Understanding Your Golden Retriever’s Needs

Golden Retrievers have specific needs to stay happy and healthy. They require plenty of exercise and mental challenges to thrive.

Physical Exercise Requirements

Golden Retrievers are energetic dogs that need regular physical activity. They typically need 1-2 hours of exercise daily, which can include walks, runs or playtime in the yard.

• Swimming is a great exercise for Golden Retrievers because they love water and are natural swimmers. Plus, it’s easy on their joints.
• Fetch is another favorite activity.
• Tug-of-war with rope toys can also help build strength and burn energy.
• Remember to adjust exercise based on your dog’s age and health. Puppies and senior dogs may need less intense activities.

Mental Stimulation Importance

Golden Retrievers are smart dogs that need mental challenges. Without them, they can become bored and destructive.

• Puzzle toys are great for mental stimulation. They make your dog think and problem-solve to get treats.
• Training sessions are another good way to engage their minds. Teach new tricks or practice obedience commands.
• Hide-and-seek games with toys or treats can be fun and stimulating. It taps into their natural retrieval instincts.
• Rotating toys can help keep things interesting. Introduce new toys regularly to prevent boredom.

Indoor and Outdoor Safety Tips

• Remove items your dog might chew or swallow.
• Put away small objects, cords and toxic plants.
• Block off unsafe areas like stairs or open windows.
• Use baby gates to limit access.
• Check your yard for holes under your fences and fill them to prevent escapes.
• Keep your Golden away from toxic garden plants and chemicals. Store lawn products safely out of reach.
• Provide shaded areas outdoors.
• Give access to fresh water at all times.

Choosing the Right Play Space

• Pick a room with easy-to-clean floors for indoor play.
• Avoid carpeted areas that can trap fur and dirt.
• Clear enough space for running and fetching toys.
• Move breakable items to high shelves.
• For outdoor play, choose a fenced area.
• Ensure the fence is tall enough to prevent jumping.
• Look for level ground without holes or sharp objects.
• Remove sticks that could hurt your dog’s mouth.
• Set up a dedicated play zone with your Golden’s favorite toys.
• This teaches them where it’s okay to be active.