12 Best Dog Toys for Pitbulls in 2023

Pitbulls may get a bad rap, but anyone who actually owns one of these large dogs knows how affectionate they can be.

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Part of their poor reputation stems from their history in blood sports like “ratting” and dog fighting in England. However, once they were brought to the US, many owners discovered that the pit bull’s gentle nature made them perfect “nanny” dogs, and they were used to help take care of small children.

Today, pit bulls might not spend a lot of time as nannies or babysitters, but they’re still ideal family dogs. When they aren’t trying to curl up next to you or go on a walk, chances are your pit bull wants to play.

Entertaining a high-energy pit bull can be a challenge. Not only can it be time-consuming, but finding the right toy for your pup can be difficult as well. Pit bulls are prone to aggressive chewing, and will likely tear through anything that isn’t made of high-quality material.

Fortunately, you don’t need to go toy shopping alone—we’ve already reviewed some of the top-rated pitbull toys and compiled a list of our favorites:

Different Types of Dog Toys for Pitbulls

When you’re shopping, a lot of pitbull toys might look the same—but there are actually several different kinds, and not all of them are meant to be used the same way:

Training toys, for instance, are typically made with rubber or tear-resistant fabric, and designed to help teething pit bulls. Even if your dog isn’t teething, a training toy may also be helpful in teaching your dog what’s appropriate to chew on and what’s not. Instead of chewing through your furniture, your pit bull can use their toy.

Plush toys, on the other hand, are like your pit bull’s very own security blanket. These soft toys usually look a lot like stuffed animals, and it’s not uncommon for a pitbull to carry their plushie throughout the house or even sleep with it. When they’re feeling anxious, a plush toy may even be able to calm your dog down.

Because pitbulls can be aggressive chewers, sometimes plush toys won’t hold up for long, and you might want to consider something more durable.

Interactive toys, which may be as simple as a rope for tug-of-war, are designed to promote bonding between you and your pit bull. When it’s time to play with your dog, you can pull out an interactive toy—which could be just a tennis ball for fetch or a complex puzzle toy for your dog to discover.

What to Look for in a Good Toy for Pitbulls

Before you identify the best pitbull toys, you need to answer one question: what makes a toy good in the first place? Believe it or not, it all comes down to your dog’s activity needs and durability.

Pit bulls tend to be high-energy dogs. When they aren’t whining to go on a walk, they’ll be begging to play fetch. It’s important when you’re shopping to look for toys that are designed for high-activity breeds. Plush toys, for example, are great for your dog to bond with, but wouldn’t last long in a game of tug-of-war.

It’s important to remember that pit bulls may have different activity levels depending on their life stages. While puppies may require more stimulation, a senior pit bull may not need much at all.

Speaking of long-lasting toys, durability is just as important. Your pit bull may love whatever toy you buy, but their reaction won’t mean much if the toy doesn’t survive the week. Toys that are made with high-quality materials like rubber or tear-resistant fabric may be more expensive but generally last much longer.

Best Pitbull Dog Toys 2023

There’s no reason to just name one—here are our favorite pitbull toys currently on the market:

USA Bones & Chews Cotton Rope with Bones Dog Toy

Best Overall

There might be a lot of toys that are well-suited for your pit bull’s needs, but only one can be the best—and that’s the USA Bones & Chews Cotton Rope with Bones Dog Toy. Not only are the materials and the toy itself made completely in the USA, but it also doesn’t have any artificial fillers, flavors, preservatives or colors either.

Due to the roasting process, the bone on this toy is able to maintain tons of moisture without being treated with harmful chemicals like formaldehyde or bleach. Tugging on the rope can actually help promote better dental hygiene for your dog, and it’s worth noting that the product comes in an assortment of different colors to choose from.

Ethical Pet Play Strong Rubber Bone Dog Toy

Best for Aggressive Chewers

Pit bulls are known to be aggressive chewers, and if you already know that your pup is one, you may want to invest in the Ethical Pet Play Strong Rubber Bone Dog Toy. This heavyweight rubber toy is practically indestructible and can go toe-to-toe with even the most aggressive chewers.

The thermoplastic rubber material is made by fusing plastic and rubber together, creating a toy that can stand the test of time. Although durable, the toy still floats in the water and can be the perfect addition to playtime in the pool.

Since the center is hollow, you can always stuff it with treats or peanut butter to occupy your pit bull while they’re playing.

KONG Extreme Dog Toy

Most Durable Dog Toy

As useful as Kong toys are, you may need one that’s extra durable and can withstand your pit bull’s aggressive chewing. Fortunately, the Kong Extreme Dog Toy may be able to do just that—with all-natural rubber designed for tough breeds like pit bulls, the Kong toy can survive playtime much longer than some toys can.

Along with giving your pit bull something to chomp on, the Kong toy can also be used to relieve boredom too—if you need to occupy your dog’s time, you can always stuff the hollow part of the Kong toy with your pup’s favorite treats or snacks.

You can also rest easy knowing that this product has been used and relied on for decades by dog enthusiasts, vets, and trainers.

JW Pet Hol-ee Roller Dog Toy

Best Interactive Puzzle Toy

For a multi-purpose toy that’s perfect for playtime of all kinds, the JW Pet Hol-ee Roller Dog Toy is an ideal choice. The patented honeycomb design can keep your pit bull occupied for hours and is double-molded so that it can contend with aggressive chewers.

Not only can you play fetch with the JW ball or give it to your dog to chew on, but you can also place treats inside and turn it into a treat dispensing toy. Since the rubber is non-toxic, your pup will be able to chew on it for hours without any problems.

In addition to an assortment of bright colors, the JW ball also comes in a variety of different sizes so that you can pick the paw-fect fit for your pit bull’s jaw.

Chuckit Junior Dog Launcher

Best Dog Ball Launcher

Fetch may be your pit bull’s favorite game, but after handling slobbery tennis balls and throwing them over and over again, it probably isn’t yours. Fortunately, the Chuckit Junior Launcher will do all the work for you—all you have to do is use the lightweight, ergonomic handle to fling the ball.

Unlike their regular sized launchers, the junior launcher is still capable of throwing the ball twice as far but may be a better fit for smaller yards.

The launcher also comes with its own Chuckit ball that will fit perfectly inside the holder but will also use small or medium Chuckit balls if you decide to purchase more.

Otterly Pets Assorted Rope Dog Toys

Best Rope Toy

If your pit bull is a big fan of rope toys, they’ll probably enjoy the Otterly Pets Assorted Rope Dog Toys. Every set comes with an array of five different ropes for your pup to have fun with.

This specific set is designed to help remove harmful tartar and plaque from your dog’s teeth while also promoting better overall dental hygiene. While every rope uses natural, non-toxic cotton fibers, the individual ropes are all different so that your pit bull will never get bored.

If any of the toys get a little dirty, there’s no reason to worry—they’re all washable and easy to air-dry.

Pet Zone IQ Treat Ball Dog Toy

Best Treat Dispenser Toy

If you want to keep your pit bull engaged for any amount of time or just reward them for great behavior, treat dispensing toys like the Pet Zone IQ Treat Ball Dog Toy can be ideal. All you need to do is fill the ball with your pit bull’s favorite snacks, and let him figure out how to get to them.

Not only will the toy engage your pit bull, but it will also reward him for positive physical and mental activity as well. Depending on how long you need to occupy your dog for, you can adjust the challenge and make it easier or more difficult.

When it’s time to clean the toy, the durable plastic is easy to disassemble and stick in the dishwasher or wipe off with a washcloth.

Hartz Bug Eyes Squeak Dog Toy

Best Squeaky Toy

Most dogs love toys that squeak or make noise, and pit bulls are no exception to the rule. Unfortunately, not all squeaky toys tend to be durable or use squeakers that last the test of time. Luckily, that isn’t a problem with the Hartz Bug Eyes Squeak Toy—since it uses a durable latex formula, it may be sturdier than some rubber or plastic toys.

In addition to durability, the Hartz toy also has an eye-popping animation feature that can entertain both pit bulls and small children. Depending on your preference, the squeaky toy can come as a pig, frog or duck.

Keep in mind that this isn’t an ideal choice for pit bulls that have allergies to latex.

Petstages Dogwood Stick Dog Toy

Made In The USA

For a toy that’s made in the USA and gives your pit bull something to nibble on, there’s no reason to look any further than the Petstages Dogwood Stick Dog Toy. This chew toy uses a non-toxic blend of synthetic material and real wood for ultimate durability. Your pit bull can get the experience of chewing on a stick without actually rummaging through the woods.

The easy-to-hold shape also makes this toy a great choice during playtime in the water or fetch outside. With this toy, your pit bull will be less likely to try and chomp on your shoes, clothing or furniture.

Best Dog Toys for Pitbull Puppies

Puppies have their own needs, which is why we’ve included a list of our favorite toys specifically designed for growing pit bulls:

Nylabone Chicken Flavored Puppy Teething Dinosaur Chew

Best for Teething

Teething is a difficult process to go through—for both you and your pit bull. Puppies will do almost anything to soothe their aching gums (even if it means chowing down on your most prized possessions). Fortunately, the Nylabone Chicken Flavored Puppy Teething Dinosaur Chew can offer a safer option for your pit bull.

Not only will the raised nubs on the dinosaur massage your pit bull’s gums while they nibble, but the tasty chicken flavor will make the toy seem much more appealing than your furniture or shoes.

Keep in mind that this teething toy is great for pit bulls who tend to be gentle chewers, and specifically those that are still growing. It’s also worth noting that, while the toy may be flavored, it isn’t edible.

JW Pet Play Place Butterfly Puppy Teether Toy

Another Great Teething Toy

For a teething toy that may be better suited for more aggressive chewers, the JW Pet Play Place Butterfly Puppy Teether Toy may be just what you need. This durable product is a great fit for pit bulls of all ages but may be particularly useful for energetic puppies.

The non-toxic nylon is durable enough to handle even the toughest chewers, and the raised nubs on one side of the toy can massage your dog’s gums while they bite.

If you have an adult pit bull that just won’t stop destroying your furniture, the JW toy can serve as a safer option and help redirect their attention.

KONG Plush Duck Dog Toy

Best Plush Toy

Pit bulls of all ages may enjoy plush toys, but puppies who are still developing may need them the most. Since plushies often act as security blankets, it’s important to find one that your dog can take into adulthood with them—much like the Kong Plush Duck Dog Toy.

Although the plushie does have a squeaker, it’s easy to remove if the noise becomes distracting. Because there’s limited stuffing too, you won’t need to deal with a big mess if your pit bull does happen to tear it open.

The duck plush toy also has a longer shape so that your pit bull can easily carry it in his mouth or cuddle with it. Depending on the size and age of your pit bull, you can pick from two sizes: extra-small or small.

Tips for Playing With/Entertaining Your Pitbull

Playtime can be fun, but unless you’re careful, it can turn into a much bigger challenge than it should be. Here are a few tips to make the quality time you spend with your pit bull much easier:

  1. Let your dog sniff new or unfamiliar toys before playtime. Your pit bull may be wary of an object they’ve never seen before, so be sure to let them sniff it before you try playing with it.
  2. Supervise your dog when they play with new toys. Although any toy you buy shouldn’t harm your dog, you never know if a new material or fabric might cause an allergic reaction or even irritate your dog’s skin. If you think there’s an issue, remove the toy immediately and get medical attention if it’s needed.
  3. Establish ground rules. Any game you play with your pit bull will have some rules—like making sure your pit bull waits for permission before picking up the toy or drops it when you tell them to “give”. Other rules might include not allowing your dog to growl, snap or tug at your clothing.
  4. If your dog breaks one of the ground rules, playtime should stop immediately. This will teach your dog that specific actions aren’t okay and discourage them from doing it in the future. If you ignore bad behavior, it will only teach your dog that it’s okay to keep doing it.

Frequently Asked Questions

What type of toys are best for pit bulls?

Although pit bulls will likely enjoy almost any toy you give them, these dogs generally like training toys they can chew on and plushies best. If your pit bull happens to have high energy levels, investing in a fetch toy or puzzle toy may help them burn off excess energy.

How often do I need to play with my pit bull?

Since pit bulls are typically higher in activity levels, you should strive to play with your pit bull at least once a day. Even a simple game of tug-of-war or throwing a tennis ball around in the backyard can make all the difference.

Will toys affect my pit bull’s temperament?

Although toys shouldn’t affect your dog’s temperament, your pit bull may come off as more aggressive during playtime if you let them growl or snap at you. However, the toy itself shouldn’t affect your dog’s temperament or make them any more aggressive.

Conclusion

While it might seem easy, finding durable pitbull toys that will suit the high-energy needs of your growing puppy or adult pit bull can be a challenge. While many brands may promise that their toys will last the test of time, not all products are designed for tough chewers or teething puppies.

The good news is that you don’t have to pick a toy off the shelf and hope for the best—we’ve done the legwork for you and reviewed many of the top-rated toys on the market. If you aren’t sure where to start, feel free to try one of the products listed above.

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