Choosing the right eco-friendly dog toy for your pooch will ensure hours of joy, with little cost to the planet. As we’re stepping into an eco-conscious era, more of us are making swaps at home. After all, changing little things can make a difference. So, when you’re next searching for a dog toy to keep your pooch out of mischief, why not consider an eco dog toy? Surprisingly, there are quite a few. Eco-dog toys do away with plastic and opt for sustainable alternatives like natural rubber and jute.
For your dog, toys are more than just a bit of fun, says the RSPCA. They will deter your pooch from “getting bored and causing trouble around your home.” How many of us have walked through the door to find something in tatters or the garden all dug up? Honestly, not ideal – and there’s no point getting mad at your pooch. Like us, they need to be stimulated, entertained, and healthy. Besides, some pooches like a challenge, so an interactive dog toy may be best for them.
This is where dog toys come in. After all, playing is a rewarding experience and these helpful little toys can relax even the most excitable pups. They’re de-stressors, too. Not only do they help with your pooch’s well-being, but they’re paramount for their physical health. For example, chew toys for puppies and older dogs can improve dental and gum health, whereas ball toys will help them stay active, helping with joints. Making these firm favourites eco-friendly just seems like a win in our eyes.
The best eco-friendly dog toys at a glance:
• Best overall: Beco Bone Rubber Dog Toy – View on Amazon UK
• Best eco-friendly crinkle dog toy: PetLove Wonky Woolies Skinz – View on Amazon UK
• Best eco-friendly interactive dog toy: Interactive Cognitive Puzzle – View on Etsy UK
Take A Break is on a mission to bring you the best pet advice. With this piece, we’re taking you through the best eco-friendly dog toys – from bones to rope toys. The products below make a little impact on the planet, but they’re sure to make an impression on your beloved mutt.
Best eco-friendly dog toys
Best overall
This Beco Bone Rubber Dog Toy is made from thick, springy natural rubber and is suited to those heavy chewers. No toy is indestructible but Beco claims that this is as close as it gets. Sounds ideal, right? If your dog gets restless, keep them entertained by stuffing this toy with some delicious treats. Made from natural rubber, this eco-friendly dog toy is our favourite.
Customer review: "This has been a real hit with the Sheep Dog. She’s absolutely nuts! It arrived in a suitable box (the obligatory swirl of parcel paper chucked in, of no use whatsoever), and it was free of warehouse grime. Immediately after removing the label, it was set to one side whilst opening another package. Upon turning back to the side table, it’d gone!! The crafty Sheepy had covertly nabbed it! So, I go into the living room and there she is - guarding it against human interference!!! Anyway, it’s durable, well proportioned for the size of the Dog (this bone is medium), and great value for money. I recommend it, and I also recommend the quality of this company's products."
Pros
- Made from natural rice husk rubber
- Non-toxic, can be stuffed with treats
- Extra-bouncy and vanilla-scented
Cons
- Customers don't all agree that it's made for heavy chewers
Size: | M is 5 x 21 x 14 cm |
Material: | Rice Husl Rubber |
Suitability: | Medium Dogs |
Best eco-friendly crinkle dog toy
Great for a game of chase or shake - or both - the PetLove Wonky Woolies are designed for those hounds who play gently. It makes a crinkle sound and there's a built-in natural rubber squeaker so there's plenty to stimulate your dog and keep them excited. If your dog is known for being a bit of a chewer, there's no stuffing inside so there won't be any mess if they do find their way inside, although it is double-stitched for extra strength.
Our review: "Since the moment I took this toy out of the packaging, Bella, my one-year-old Cockapoo pup, hasn't left it alone. She really enjoys the sounds it makes and that it's lightweight enough to carry around with her in her mouth. As a paw-rent, I love that it's made from 100 per cent recycled materials and once Bella has got all the fun from it, I can pop it in the recycle bin for it to be reused again."
Pros
- Made from recycled materials and can be recycled when finished with
- Crinkles and squeaks
- No stuffing inside for mess-free play
Cons
- If your dog is known to be a bit of a chewer, we think this may not be suitable for them as it's a thinner material for them to get into
Size: | 32 x 22 x 3cm |
Material: | Upcycled Woolfelt, recycled poly-fibre fur, and r-PET rope |
Suitability: | Dogs who play gently |
Best eco-friendly interactive dog toy
www.etsy.com
With seven hidden food slots, this interactive treat puzzle is great for dogs who need some stimulation. It's made from locally sourced MDF and painted with non-toxic paint and varnish. Make sure to only use it with dry food, though. Made to order, this puzzle can be personalised and the listing contains helpful advice on how to introduce their new toy.
Customer review: "So pleased with this puzzle, it's really well made and our pup loves it (and is getting very good at it!). Love that it's plastic-free. Highly recommend."
Pros
- Satisfies a natural instinct to play
- Made from locally-sourced MDF
- Made-to-order, personalisable
Cons
- May not suit all dogs
Size: | 25 x 15 x 2.4 cm |
Material: | MDF |
Suitability: | Small to Medium Dogs |
Best eco rope dog toy
Pick medium or large, this Recycled Soft Tiger from Beco will rise to the occasion. It's made from recycled plastic, hemp and cotton. Not only is it soft and cuddle, but it's durable. The ring design gives your dog a good grip during tug of war. Why not give some plastic a second lease on life and gift this super cute (and strong) toy to your pooch?
Customer Review: "My golden retriever puppy loves to play with it."
Pros
- Available as medium or large
- Soft, cuddly and durable
- Gives plastic waste a second life
Cons
- Not indestructible
Size: | M is 4.5 x 13 x 29 cm, L is 7 x 17 x 37 cm |
Material: | Recycled Plastic, Hemp, Cotton |
Suitability: | Smaller to Medium Dogs |
Best eco dog toy for dental health
www.wildthought.co.uk
Made from natural rubber, this cleverly designed dog toy has been made with a particular raised texture. These will help keep your dog's teeth clean, massaging their gums and exercising their jaw muscles. This chew toy can also be used as a treat dispenser and works brilliantly as a ball. Versatile, natural and stimulating, this is a great pick.
Pros
- Made from eco, biodegradable rubber
- The texture will keep their mouth healthy
- Versatile - also a treat dispenser and ball
Cons
- Stock may vary
Size: | Various |
Material: | FDA-Grade Natural Rubber |
Suitability: | Mini is >5kg, Small is 5-10kg, Medium is 10-20kg, Large is 20kg> |
Best eco-friendly tug dog toy
Double-stitched with multi-layer fabric, the PetLove Wonky Woolies Tuggerz are more than capable of withstanding a high-energy game of chase and tug as these eco-friendly toys are perfect for dogs who like to play rough and need their toys tough. And although they are strong, it doesn't mean they're not comfortable to snuggle up with after a day of playing. Not only that, they're made from 100 per cent recycled materials and can be machine washed at a low temperature.
Our review: "Being a boisterous but big softy labrador, Barney sometimes doesn't realise his own strength so toys sometimes don't last a long while around him, despite him trying his very best to look after them. The PetLove Wonky Woolies Tuggerz feel pretty tough and have withstood many a game of tug since we got one. We tried the sheep version but there are many different animals to choose from."
Pros
- Designed for tough play
- Machine washable on a low heat
- Made from recycled materials and is recyclable when finished with
Cons
- No other customer reviews so while our tester's dog got on well with it, others may have a different experience
Size: | 38 x 12 x 6 cm |
Material: | Upcycled Woolfelt, recycled poly-fibre fur and r-PET rope |
Suitable: | All dogs, especially those who love rough play |
Best biodegradable eco-friendly dog toy
www.wildthought.co.uk
This little guy is sure to brighten up anyone's day. We've picked the Francois Le Frog Jute Dog Toy because it's made from sustainable by-product jute and soft suede for long-lasting durability. There is no need to worry about any harsh chemicals - as there is no compound added to this adorable (and biodegradable) amphibian.
Pros
- Made from sustainable jute
- Tough and long-lasting
- Biodegradable materials
Cons
- Contains animal products
Size: | 27.2 x 18.7 x 5.5 cm |
Material: | Jute, Soft Suede |
Suitability: | Small to Medium |
Best eco dog toy with squeaker
We love this Rosewood Plush Giraffe Toy with Squeaker. It's made from a super-soft material that makes the toy soft and cuddly to curl up with but also perfect for playtime. Believe it or not, recycled bottles are used for both the outer fabric and the soft stuffing. With a hidden squeaker and scent-holding properties, we certainly love this cuddly toy.
Customer review: "I brought this for my dog’s birthday and he loves it. It is soft and has a lovely squeak. It arrived on time, was well-packaged and was in great condition. This item gets my dog's seal of approval!"
Pros
- Made from recycled plastic bottles
- Hidden squeaker for fun playtime
- Holds scent to help separation anxiety
Cons
- Customers say this is best for nibblers
Size: | 6.5 x 8.5 x 31 cm |
Material: | Recycled Plastic |
Suitability: | All Dogs |
Best eco-friendly chewing stick for dogs
Does your pup always pick up a stick on a walk? Well, the Wildfang® Olive Wood - Chewing Stick is an attractive and tasty alternative to other sticks that can splinter and cause harm to your dog. The natural chew toy offers a long chewing pleasure and only frays, not splints. It is very attractive to many dogs because the wood still has its natural bark. Plus, it's safe to digest and will provide dental care for your gnashing mutt.
Customer review: "Arrived quickly, my 1-year-old pomsky loves it. She has already made good progress with it
Pros
- Available in different sizes and set
- Suitable for all life stages
- Provides natural dental care
Cons
- Not suitable for hard chewers
Size: | Various |
Material: | Olive Wood |
Suitability: | Adult Dogs |
Best eco ball on a rope toy
Beco Pets Ball on a Rope is made from natural rubber, which is super tough, and the rope makes it easy to throw, ideal for a game of fetch. Natural rubber takes the best from nature; free from harmful additives while being tough, hard-wearing and springy enough for heavy chewers. When released, this toy will soar like no other, with your dog close behind, we're sure. This is a perfect toy to encourage your dog to stay active, as well as happy.
Customer review: "So far this has been a decent toy for my 12-week-old double doodle. He enjoys playing with it. I'd prefer the rope to be a little longer for when we are playing together so my fingers were further away from his teeth, and the ball area is a bit big for him at the moment, but he's happy with it. Slightly dissatisfied that it... required a good cleaning before use. But it feels good quality and like it will last a good time."
Pros
- Made from natural rubber and rice husk fibres
- Extra strong and durable rope
- Great for combining fetch and tug-of-war
Cons
- Not durable for strong chewers
Size: | S is 6 x 7.6 x 45 cm, L is 48.26 x 7.62 cm |
Material: | Rope, Natural Rubber |
Suitability: | All Dogs |
Best eco-friendly dog ball
Next, we recommend this Beco Dog ball hat bounces and wobbles and has a hole for hiding treats to keep your dog entertained. Natural rubber takes the best from nature; it is tough, hard-wearing and springy enough for heavy chewers. Available in three colours and several sizes, we heartily recommend this ball. It's lightweight, buoyant in the water and howls when thrown - so, it's easy for your pup to locate.
Customer Review: "My small Cavalier King Charles has a special ability to rip all the bags in 5 minutes. I've been using Beco balls for years and it lasts forever. My dog chews on it every day and the ball still looks perfect.
It does have some teeth marks after couple of years but it still remains in a brilliant condition."
Pros
- Different sizes and colours
- Doubles as a treat puzzle
- Bouyant, howls when thrown
Cons
- May not suit all dogs
Size: | Various |
Material: | Natural Rubber |
Suitability: | All Dogs |
Best bone-shaped eco-dog toy
www.wildthought.co.uk
This Jute Funny Bone Toy is stylish and perfect for throwing and tugging, with hours of fun in-store. This toy has four layers of jute twin stitched over recycled cotton and jute rope, which is a natural, biodegradable palm fibre. Perhaps, you're thinking, give us a bone! Jute? Not only that, but it's long-lasting and not made with any harsh chemicals.
Pros
- Biodegrable, natural matrial
- Tough and long-lasting
- Not made with any nasties
Cons
- Doesn't look as exciting as other toys
Size: | 25 x 11 cm |
Material: | Jute |
Suitability: | All Dogs |
Best eco-friendly plush toy for dogs
Perfect for pets and the planet, this Carlos the Crocodile Plush Toy from Petface is another favourite of ours. In fact, Petface has a range of animals you can choose from. All of their plush dog toys are made out of recycled bottles, which create a great crunching noise for your pup when they pick it up. It's great for a lovely play experience or just for a cuddle. Look at Carlos's sweet face! 'Ruff said.
Customer Review: "When the parrot arrived this exceeded my expectations. It was bigger than I thought which was great. When you touch the wings and tail they make a crinkly noise, which I didn't know, so that was a nice surprise and it also has a squeaker inside. The parrot is bright and colourful and I bought it because it was different and stood out. It was very well received. I would definitely buy more from this brand as they are very cute. I thought it was very good value for money, too."
Pros
- Made from recycled bottles
- Perfect play and cuddles
- Crunching noise when picked up
Cons
- Not indestructible
Size: | 8 x 19 x 40 cm |
Material: | Recycled Plastic Bottles |
Suitability: | All Dogs |
FAQs
How do I choose a safe dog toy for my pet?
We want to make sure you’re putting the safety of your pooch first. So, we’ve got some tips on choosing the safest eco-friendly dog toys for your pooch to play with.
Breed and size are the main factors when it comes to picking the best toys for your dog. Consider the size of their jaw – are they a nibbler or does their bite pack a punch? Seek out advice on different varieties of dog toys.
Brand is another thing to consider. Always choose good quality over a cheaper product.
Supervision is best. It’s no secret that our dogs get up to no good when we’re not around. But, when it comes to toys, it’s best to keep watch to ensure their safety. Don’t give your pooch a brand-new toy and leave the house.
As veterinarian, Joanna Woodnutt says: “There are no completely safe chew toys for dogs, but that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t use them. It’s all about balancing the possible risks against the possible benefits to your dog, and then doing what you can to minimise the risks. If you’re unsure, talk to your vet, who will be happy to share their experiences with a range of dog chews!”
What makes a safe toy?
Thanks to Pet Radar, we’ve managed to round up the ideal characteristics of a safe chew toy:
• Tough and long-lasting
• Contains no harmful chemicals
• Available in a range of sizes to suit each dog
• Completely and quickly digestible, in case of swallowing
• Doesn’t splinter into sharp pieces
• Attractive to dogs (tastes/smells good, right texture)
• Not harder than dental enamel
Are dog toys recyclable?
This will depend on the toy, according to Pure Earth Pets, although you may need to “break it apart to separate the materials.” If you can save it from landfill, do try to use a household waste recycling centre or your recycled bin at home. However, not all plastics are recyclable.
Piper Huxley is a Homes, Garden and Wellness Product Writer for Take a Break, specialising in pet health. When she’s not barking about dog supplements, she’s online devouring cat content.