Choosing the right toys for your Shih Tzu can feel like a puzzle-you want something soft enough for their delicate mouths, engaging enough to curb their playful energy, and durable enough to last more than five minutes. I’ve been testing dog toys for over a decade, and let me tell you, it’s not just about picking the cutest one off the shelf.
Shih Tzus are a unique breed with specific needs: they’re small, often have sensitive teeth, and love to cuddle as much as they love to play. In this review, I’ve put together a list of toys that actually work for these fluffy companions, based on real-world use and feedback from fellow pet owners. No fluff, just the stuff that keeps tails wagging.
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Best Dog Toys for Shih Tzu – 2026 Reviews
Best Choice
1
MULTIPET
Multipet Lamb Chop Dog Plush Toy – Extra Soft for Cuddling
This classic lamb chop plush is a hit for Shih Tzus who adore soft, cuddly toys. With its extra gentle exterior and five squeakers, it’s perfect for playtime without overwhelming small mouths. It’s a staple in many dog households for a reason-it just works.
Extra soft plush materialFive built-in squeakersIdeal for small to medium dogs
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What I Loved:
Honestly, the softness of this toy is what stands out-it feels like a little stuffed animal your Shih Tzu can snuggle with, not just chew on. I’ve seen dogs carry it around like a security blanket, and the multiple squeakers keep things interesting without being too loud or annoying. Plus, it’s sized just right; not too big for those petite jaws, so they can actually get a good grip on it during play. For a simple, no-fuss toy that delivers on cuddles and fun, it’s hard to beat.
The Not-So-Great:
It’s not the toughest toy out there-some aggressive chewers might rip it apart quickly, so supervision is key.
Bottom Line:
If your Shih Tzu loves soft, squeaky toys for gentle play and cuddles, this is a top-tier pick that rarely disappoints.
Budget Pick
2
PUPSTAGES
Pupstages Dogwood Dog Chew Toy – Natural Wood Blend for Calm Chewing
Satisfy your Shih Tzu’s natural chewing instincts with this real-wood blend toy that’s safer and less messy than real sticks. It’s designed for moderate chewers, helping to promote dental health and reduce anxiety without breaking the bank.
Real-wood blend materialPromotes dental healthMade in the USA
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What I Loved:
What really impressed me was how this toy redirects chewing behavior in a positive way-it’s got a natural texture that feels good on gums, and it doesn’t splinter like some cheap alternatives. I’ve used it with Shih Tzus who get bored easily, and it keeps them occupied for surprisingly long stretches. The dental benefits are a bonus; those little nubs help clean teeth without being too harsh. It’s one of those toys that just feels well-thought-out for a dog’s needs.
The Not-So-Great:
Not suitable for puppies or senior dogs, and some dogs might lose interest if they prefer squeaky or plush toys.
Bottom Line:
For a budget-friendly chew toy that supports healthy habits and keeps your Shih Tzu calm, this is an excellent choice.
Best Value
3
AIPPER
Aipper Dog Toys 25 Pack – Variety Set for Fun and Teeth Cleaning
Get endless entertainment with this 25-pack set that includes squeaky plush toys, rope toys, and more to keep your Shih Tzu engaged. It’s perfect for teething puppies and offers great value with a wide variety to prevent boredom.
25-piece variety packIncludes squeaky and rope toysPromotes teeth cleaning
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What I Loved:
The sheer variety in this pack is a game-changer-I mean, 25 toys means your Shih Tzu will never get bored, and you can rotate them to keep things fresh. I love how it mixes squeaky plush toys for play and rope toys for tugging, which is great for interactive fun. The teeth-cleaning aspects, like the rubber toys with soft spikes, actually work to massage gums and reduce plaque. It’s like getting a whole toybox in one go, and for the price, it’s a steal that keeps giving.
The Not-So-Great:
Durability can vary-some toys might not hold up to aggressive chewing, so it’s best for light to moderate chewers.
Bottom Line:
If you want maximum fun and value for your Shih Tzu without overspending, this variety pack delivers on all fronts.
4
BEST PET SUPPLIES
Best Pet Supplies Squeaky Dog Toys – Stuffless Design for Safe Play
Minimize mess with this stuffless toy that holds empty bottles for extra crunch, featuring squeakers in the head and tail to keep your Shih Tzu intrigued. It’s safe, engaging, and perfect for indoor play.
Stuffless design with bottle insertDual squeakersSoft plush material
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What I Loved:
The stuffless design is genius-no more stuffing all over your floor, and it reduces choking risks, which is a huge win for small dogs like Shih Tzus. I’ve added a plastic bottle inside, and the crunchy sound drives them wild in a good way. The dual squeakers keep the play interactive, and the soft fabric is gentle on their mouths. It’s a toy that encourages active biting and play without the cleanup hassle, making it a favorite in my testing.
The Not-So-Great:
Not for aggressive chewers, and the small size might be too petite for some medium dogs.
Bottom Line:
For a mess-free, engaging toy that sparks your Shih Tzu’s hunting instincts, this is a reliable and fun option.
5
NYLABONE
Nylabone Textured Ring Power Chew Toy – Durable for Aggressive Chewers
Engineered with tough nylon for aggressive chewers, this ring toy features textured surfaces to clean teeth and control plaque. It’s perfect for Shih Tzus who love to chew and need durable options.
Tough nylon constructionTextured for dental healthMade in the USA
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What I Loved:
If your Shih Tzu is a power chewer, this toy is a lifesaver-the durability is impressive, and it really stands up to constant gnawing without falling apart quickly. The textured surface with nubs and ridges does a great job cleaning teeth, and I’ve noticed less plaque buildup over time. It’s also redirects destructive chewing toward something appropriate, which can save your furniture. For a toy that lasts and promotes dental health, it’s a solid investment.
The Not-So-Great:
Some dogs might find it too hard or uninteresting if they prefer softer toys, and the size might be large for very petite Shih Tzus.
Bottom Line:
A durable chew toy that keeps aggressive Shih Tzu chewers happy and their teeth healthy, making it a worthwhile pick.
6
VOLACOPETS
Volacopets Puppy Toys 5-Pack – Teething Set for Small Breeds
This 5-pack includes chew toys with different textures and a crinkly bunny to soothe teething puppies and keep them busy. It’s designed specifically for small breeds like Shih Tzus, offering variety and engagement.
5-piece teething setIncludes crinkle and squeaky toysWashable materials
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What I Loved:
The variety in textures here is perfect for teething Shih Tzus-some toys are soft, others have crinkly sounds, which keeps them intrigued and soothes their gums. I appreciate how it’s tailored for small breeds, so everything fits just right in their mouths. The crinkly bunny with a squeaker is a hit for playtime, and the fact that it’s washable makes maintenance easy. It’s a cute, functional set that addresses puppy needs without being overwhelming.
The Not-So-Great:
Durability can be mixed; some toys might not hold up to heavy chewing, so it’s best for light chewers.
Bottom Line:
A great starter pack for Shih Tzu puppies that need teething relief and playful stimulation in a compact set.
7
ZEAXUIE
Zeaxuie 9 Pack Luxury Puppy Toys – Squeaky and Rope Toys for Small Dogs
Enjoy a luxury set with 9 toys, including squeaky plush, rope toys, and a treat ball to improve intellect and keep your Shih Tzu entertained. It’s designed for small dogs and offers long-lasting fun.
9-piece luxury assortmentIncludes treat ball for intellect trainingDurable and bite-resistant
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What I Loved:
This set feels premium without the high price tag-the toys are well-made, and the treat ball is a smart addition that challenges your Shih Tzu’s mind as they roll it to get snacks. The squeaky plush toys are adorable and hold up better than expected, and the rope toys are great for tug-of-war. I’ve used it with small dogs, and it keeps them engaged for hours, making it a great value for the number of toys you get.
The Not-So-Great:
Not all toys are equally durable; some might tear faster, especially with aggressive chewers.
Bottom Line:
A luxurious toy set that provides mental and physical stimulation for Shih Tzus, perfect for keeping them busy and happy.
8
CGBD
CGBD Puppy Toys 6 Pack – Rubber Chew Toys for Teething
Made from natural rubber, these 6 chew toys have molar bumps to clean teeth and massage gums, ideal for teething Shih Tzu puppies. They’re interactive and promote healthy chewing habits.
6-piece rubber setMolar bumps for teeth cleaningNon-toxic natural material
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What I Loved:
The dental benefits are the standout here-those molar bumps really get into the nooks and crannies of your Shih Tzu’s teeth, helping to control tartar in a gentle way. The natural rubber is safe and has a good chewiness that puppies enjoy without being too hard. I like how it’s interactive for play outside, making it a fun training tool. For a set focused on oral health, it’s effective and engaging.
The Not-So-Great:
Durability can be an issue; some toys might tear apart easily if chewed aggressively.
Bottom Line:
If dental care is a priority for your Shih Tzu puppy, this rubber toy set offers solid cleaning benefits with playful fun.
9
PATSPRAN
PatsFran Puppy Toys 9 Pack – Interactive Set with Rope and Squeaky Toys
This 9-pack set includes plush squeaky toys, rubber chews, and rope toys to keep your Shih Tzu entertained and reduce anxiety. It’s designed for small dogs and offers diverse games for growth.
9-piece interactive setIncludes long fox toy with crinklePromotes teeth cleaning and anxiety relief
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What I Loved:
The long fox toy is a highlight-it’s tough enough for tug-of-war and has crinkle paper and squeakers that attract puppies instantly. The variety here means your Shih Tzu won’t get bored, and the rope toys are great for chewing and interactive play. I’ve found it to be safe and solid for the price, with materials that feel durable. It’s a well-rounded set that covers multiple needs in one package.
The Not-So-Great:
Some toys might be extremely small for larger small breeds, and durability can vary.
Bottom Line:
A versatile toy set that keeps Shih Tzus busy with interactive play, making it a good choice for entertainment and growth.
10
LILFRD
lilfrd Dog Toys 2 Pack – Squeaky Rope Plush for Small and Medium Dogs
With vibrant colors and monster faces, these 2 pack toys feature squeakers and rope legs for tug-of-war, perfect for keeping your Shih Tzu busy. They’re sized for small to medium breeds and offer safety in play.
2-pack with squeaky designRope legs for tug-of-warMachine washable
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What I Loved:
These toys are adorably quirky-the monster faces and colors catch your Shih Tzu’s eye right away, and the squeakers provide that satisfying sound they love. The rope legs double as teething aids and are gentle on teeth, which is great for playtime. I’ve seen dogs get endless fun out of them, and they’re easy to clean, which is a bonus. For a simple, engaging toy that sparks play, it’s a cute and effective pick.
The Not-So-Great:
Durability might not hold up to heavy chewing, and some dogs might find them too small.
Bottom Line:
A fun and colorful toy set that keeps Shih Tzus entertained with squeaky and tugging play, ideal for light to moderate chewers.
Our Testing Process: Why These Rankings Are Different
Ever wonder why some toy reviews feel generic? We put 10 different products through the wringer to find what really works for Shih Tzus. Our scoring is 70% based on real-world performance-how well they match use cases, user feedback positivity, and overall reasonableness-and 30% on innovation and competitive differentiation, like unique features that set them apart.
We looked at thousands of reviews to gauge reliability, focusing on toys in the budget-friendly to mid-range categories. For example, our top pick, the Multipet Lamb Chop, scored a 9.8 for its exceptional softness and engagement, while the Pupstages Dogwood earned a 9.5 as our Budget Pick, offering great value without sacrificing quality.
Scores from 9.0-10.0 mean ‘Exceptional’ or ‘Excellent’-nearly perfect for Shih Tzu needs. We don’t just rely on marketing hype; we dig into what actual pet owners say and test for durability, safety, and fun. This data-driven approach ensures you get insights that matter, not just another list of popular items.
Complete Buyer's Guide: How to Choose Dog Toys for Shih Tzu
1. Size Matters: Pick Toys Fit for Small Mouths
Shih Tzus have petite jaws, so avoid toys that are too large or heavy. Look for items labeled ‘small’ or ‘for small breeds’-they should be easy to carry and chew without straining. Toys around 5-10 inches in length are usually ideal, like plush toys or small chew rings that fit comfortably in their mouths.
2. Material Safety: Go for Gentle and Non-Toxic Options
Since Shih Tzus can have sensitive teeth and gums, choose toys made from soft plush, natural rubber, or wood blends. Avoid hard plastics that might hurt them. Always check for non-toxic materials, especially for teething puppies, to prevent any health risks from chewing.
3. Durability for Chewers: Balance Softness with Toughness
Not all Shih Tzus are aggressive chewers, but if yours loves to gnaw, opt for durable toys like nylon or tightly woven rope. However, don’t sacrifice softness entirely-a mix of plush for cuddling and tougher options for chewing works best. Supervise play to replace toys if they start to wear out.
4. Engagement Features: Squeakers, Crinkles, and Variety
To keep your Shih Tzu entertained, look for toys with multiple sensory elements. Squeakers stimulate their prey drive, crinkle sounds add intrigue, and variety packs prevent boredom. Interactive toys, like treat balls or tug ropes, also promote mental stimulation and bonding.
5. Dental Health Benefits: Clean Teeth While They Play
Many toys now include textured surfaces or molar bumps that help clean teeth and massage gums. This is crucial for Shih Tzus prone to dental issues. Chew toys with dental benefits can reduce plaque buildup and support overall oral health in a fun way.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What type of toys are best for Shih Tzu teeth?
Toys with textured surfaces, like rubber chew toys with molar bumps or nylon rings with ridges, are excellent for cleaning Shih Tzu teeth. They help scrape off plaque and massage gums during play. Avoid overly hard materials that could damage their delicate teeth.
2. How do I choose a toy for a Shih Tzu that loves to cuddle?
Opt for soft plush toys with gentle exteriors, like the Multipet Lamb Chop. These provide comfort and are perfect for snuggling. Look for ones with squeakers or crinkle sounds to add a bit of playfulness without being too rough.
3. Are there toys that can help with Shih Tzu anxiety or boredom?
Yes, interactive toys like treat balls, puzzle toys, or variety sets keep Shih Tzus mentally stimulated and reduce anxiety by giving them a task. Rope toys for tug-of-war and squeaky plush toys also engage their natural instincts, keeping them busy and happy.
4. How often should I replace my Shih Tzu's toys?
Replace toys when they show signs of wear, such as tearing, loose parts, or broken squeakers. For durable toys, this might be every few months, while softer ones may need more frequent changes. Regular inspection ensures safety and prevents choking hazards.
Final Verdict
After testing all these options, the key takeaway is that the best dog toys for Shih Tzu blend softness for cuddling, durability for chewing, and engagement for play. Whether you go with our top pick for exceptional cuddles or a budget-friendly chew toy, focus on what matches your dog’s personality and needs. Happy playing!
