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The Australian Shepherd is a confident, high-energy dog who thrives on activity. The right toys don’t just entertain — they channel that energy into healthy play and mental focus.
Table of Contents
Dog toys are more than fun for Aussies; they’re essential for keeping boredom and destructive habits at bay. Whether your pup loves to fetch, chew, or solve puzzles, we’ve rounded up top-rated options from trusted brands known for safety and durability.
| Best Overall | Best For Fetch | Best Plush | Best Chew Toy |
|---|---|---|---|
 |  |  |  |
| KONG Extreme | KONG Wubba Toy | Zippy Paws Peltz | Benebone |
| View on Amazon | View on Amazon | View on Amazon | View on Amazon |
| View on Chewy | View on Chewy | View on Chewy | View on Chewy |
| Read Review | Read Review | Read Review | Read Review |
Buyer’s Guide
Because Australian Shepherds are highly active and intelligent, their toys need to be durable, mentally engaging, and safe.
In this buyer’s guide, we’ll break down everything you should consider, including:
- Play style: how your dog interacts with different types of toys
- Durability: what materials hold up best to repeated play
- Safety: how to spot and avoid potential hazards
- Size: why toy sizing matters for medium-sized breeds
- Budget: balancing cost and quality for long-term value
Type Of Play
The first step in finding the right toy is knowing how your Aussie likes to play. Some dogs love to chase and retrieve, while others prefer chewing, tugging, or problem-solving.
If you’re welcoming a new Australian Shepherd puppy, start with a mix of toy types — rubber for teething, plush for comfort, and puzzle toys to challenge their mind. You’ll quickly see which ones grab their attention.
For adults, focus on the activities they already enjoy most. If you have an Aussie that loves food, a treat-dispensing toy or interactive puzzle keeps a clever Aussie busy, while a fetch ball or tug rope satisfies their need for movement and teamwork.
The key is variety: rotate toys often to keep playtime fresh and engaging.
Durability
Australian Shepherds are active dogs with strong jaws and serious stamina, so durability matters. A flimsy toy can be shredded in minutes, while a quality one keeps your pup safely entertained for weeks.
If your Aussie is a gentle player, most standard rubber or rope toys will hold up fine. But if they’re a aggressive chewer, look for toys labeled tough or heavy-duty — especially those made from natural rubber or reinforced nylon.
Spending a little more upfront on a durable toy usually means better value over time. Cheap toys that break quickly aren’t just frustrating; they can also create choking hazards once torn apart.
Materials
The material of a toy determines how long it lasts and how safe it is for your Aussie. Since Australian Shepherds love active, hands-on play, choose materials that can handle frequent use.
Rubber
Durable and bouncy, rubber toys are perfect for chewing and fetch. Natural rubber feels good on teeth and gums, especially for teething pups, and it’s easy to clean after playtime.
Nylon
A strong alternative to rubber, nylon toys are great for moderate chewers. Look for options that are well-stitched instead of glued, and avoid brittle plastics that can splinter.
Rope
Ideal for tug-of-war, rope toys are tough and help floss your dog’s teeth as they chew. Just be sure to replace them if threads start to unravel.
Polyester and Plush
Soft and cuddly, plush toys are best for gentle players. They’re not designed for chewing and can pose a choking risk if torn open, so keep an eye on your Aussie during play.
Safety
No toy is worth the fun if it isn’t safe. Unfortunately, some cheaply made toys can contain harmful materials or break apart too easily, creating choking hazards.
Always choose toys from reputable brands that use safe, non-toxic materials. Natural rubber and BPA-free plastics are good signs. Avoid toys that don’t clearly state what they’re made of — or that seem too inexpensive to be trustworthy.
Inspect your dog’s toys often. If pieces start to come loose or stuffing is exposed, it’s time for a replacement. A new toy is always cheaper than an emergency vet visit.
Size
Australian Shepherds are medium-sized dogs, so most will need medium to large toys that can handle their strength and enthusiasm. The most important rule: make sure your dog can’t swallow the toy.
Toys that are too small can become dangerous choking hazards. When in doubt, size up — especially with balls, bones, or chew toys. For puppies, choose smaller, softer rubber toys that are gentle on teething gums but still too big to fit entirely in the mouth.
Some brands list toy size recommendations by weight or breed, which makes it easier to find a good match for your Aussie’s proportions.
Budget
Most dog toys won’t break the bank, but cost still matters — especially for active breeds like the Australian Shepherd that go through toys quickly.
It’s often worth paying a bit more for durability and safety, since high-quality toys last longer and resist damage better. Investing in the right toys also helps you save on replacements (and protect your furniture from becoming a substitute).
If you’re budgeting for new gear, remember to set aside funds for other essentials like a comfortable harness, crate, and dog bed — all key for keeping your Aussie happy and healthy.
Best Dog Toys For Australian Shepherd Dogs
Now we have arrived at the recommendation section – hopefully, the exciting part! After reading the buying guide, you should have an idea about what type of toy to focus on for your Aussie and the materials that will be the best for your pooch. All of our top picks are safe, durable, and good value for money.
All you need to do is read through each toy review and work out which one will be the biggest hit for your bestie. As the Aussie likes to run, we’ve included several options you can chuck and throw for extra distance. So, in no particular order, let’s take a look.
Best Overall: KONG Extreme Dog Toy Review
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Most dog owners have owned a KONG toy at some point, and for good reason. The KONG Extreme takes the classic red version up a notch, using ultra-tough black rubber that holds up to even the strongest chewers — ideal for active Australian Shepherds who like to stay busy.
Fill it with treats, kibble, or peanut butter to turn it into a food puzzle that keeps your dog mentally engaged for hours. The unpredictable bounce pattern adds variety to every game of fetch, keeping your Aussie on their toes. When playtime’s over, simply toss it in the dishwasher for easy cleanup.
This durable toy is designed to withstand daily chewing, reduce boredom, and satisfy your dog’s natural urge to work for rewards. Made in the USA from safe, non-toxic natural rubber, it’s a reliable, multipurpose choice that fits nearly every type of Aussie playtime.
Key Features
- Ultra-strong, natural rubber design
- Hollow interior for treat-stuffing
- Unpredictable bounce pattern for fetch
- Great for power chewers and anxious dogs
- Dishwasher-safe for easy cleaning
- Made in the U.S.A.
Price
Best For Fetch: KONG Wubba Dog Toy Review
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The KONG Wubba is a long-time favorite among active breeds, and it’s easy to see why. Designed for interactive fetch and tug-of-war, this durable toy combines two tennis balls inside a reinforced nylon cover that can handle rough play and lots of slobber.
The long, floppy tails make it easy to throw, shake, or tug, giving your Australian Shepherd plenty of exercise while encouraging bonding during play. It squeaks for added excitement and comes in several bright colors that stand out in the grass or park.
Built from ballistic-grade nylon and backed by KONG’s solid reputation for quality, the Wubba is made to outlast most standard plush fetch toys. It’s best for supervised play since Aussies can be determined chewers, but it’s tough enough to stand up to daily fetch sessions.
Key Features
- Reinforced ballistic nylon exterior
- Dual tennis ball core for bounce and durability
- Built-in squeaker for extra engagement
- Great for fetch and tug-of-war
- Easy to grip, throw, and retrieve
- Available in multiple colors
- KONG brand quality and reliability
Price
Best Plush: Zippy Paws Skinny Peltz Review
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If your Australian Shepherd enjoys soft toys but tends to tear through traditional plushies, the ZippyPaws Skinny Peltz set offers a smart solution. Each toy is unstuffed, which means no messy filling if your dog manages to rip one open — just a safe, soft shell for fetch or snuggling.
The set includes three woodland-themed characters (a fox, raccoon, and squirrel) that appeal to an Aussie’s natural prey drive. Each toy has two squeakers to hold your dog’s attention longer, and replacement squeakers are available if the originals wear out.
While not built for aggressive chewers, these toys are great for moderate play and interactive games. They’re lightweight, easy to toss, and perfectly sized for a medium breed like the Australian Shepherd.
Key Features
- Three-pack includes fox, raccoon, and squirrel
- Unstuffed design helps prevent choking hazards
- Dual squeakers in each toy for added fun
- Soft yet durable stitching for moderate play
- Replacement squeakers available
- Ideal size for medium dogs
- Affordable multi-pack value
Price
- 3-pack: $13.32
Best Chew Toy: Benebone Bacon Flavored Wishbone Review
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For Aussies who love to chew, the Benebone Bacon Flavored Wishbone is a durable and satisfying choice. Made from tough nylon infused with real bacon flavor, it keeps dogs engaged and helps curb destructive chewing behaviors. The ergonomic wishbone shape gives your pup multiple angles to grip and chew comfortably, even during long play sessions.
Unlike bones or sticks that can splinter, Benebones are designed to be safe and long-lasting. The flavor runs throughout the toy (not just on the surface), so it stays appealing from start to finish. It’s made in the USA with domestically sourced materials, ensuring both quality and safety.
This toy is ideal for dogs who need a productive outlet for chewing energy, helping relieve anxiety, keep teeth strong, and provide hours of focused play.
Key Features
- Made from durable nylon with real bacon flavor
- Ergonomic wishbone design for easy gripping
- Long-lasting and splinter-free
- Helps reduce boredom and anxiety
- Flavor infused throughout the toy
- Made in the U.S.A. with U.S.-sourced materials
- Supports animal welfare organizations
Price
More Toys For Australian Shepherds
Although these didn’t make our top four picks, each of the following toys is a great option for keeping your energetic Aussie entertained and active.
Chuckit! Sport Launcher Dog Toy Review
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If your Australian Shepherd never seems to tire of fetch, the Chuckit! Sport Launcher takes the game to the next level. The launcher’s ergonomic handle lets you throw balls two to three times farther than you can by hand, giving your Aussie the workout they crave with less effort on your end.
The launcher also keeps your hands clean thanks to hands-free pickup, so there’s no need to grab a slobbery ball. It comes with one durable rubber ball and works with most standard-sized tennis balls, making replacements easy to find.
Lightweight and easy to carry, this toy is perfect for parks, open fields, or the backyard. It’s especially useful for high-energy breeds like the Australian Shepherd that need long play sessions to stay calm indoors.
Key Features
- Launches balls up to 2–3x farther
- Includes one durable ball
- Compatible with most tennis balls
- Hands-free pickup for clean play
- Lightweight and easy to carry
- Ideal for long-distance fetch sessions
- Made in the U.S.A.
Price
Westpaw Zogoflex Zisc Flying Disc Review
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For Aussies who love to chase and catch, the West Paw Zogoflex Zisc is a durable, flexible flying disc designed for long, gliding throws. Unlike hard plastic frisbees, it’s made from soft, non-toxic thermoplastic elastomer (TPE) that’s gentle on your dog’s mouth while still holding its shape during flight.
This disc also floats on water, making it great for beach or pool play. It’s tough enough for moderate chewers and can even double as a tug toy. The Zisc is dishwasher-safe, recyclable, and made in the U.S.A. with a manufacturer-backed lifetime guarantee, so if your dog somehow manages to damage it, West Paw will replace it.
Key Features
- Soft, durable, and flexible flying disc
- Gentle on teeth and gums
- Floats for water play
- Dishwasher-safe and recyclable
- BPA- and toxin-free materials
- Made in the U.S.A. with lifetime guarantee
- Great for agility and fetch-loving Aussies
Price
KONG Squeezz Ball Dog Toy Review
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The KONG Squeezz Ball is a durable and engaging toy for Aussies who can’t resist a good squeak. Made from tough, flexible rubber, it’s strong enough for moderate chewers and built to bounce unpredictably, keeping your pup guessing with every toss.
The recessed squeaker is cleverly hidden inside the toy, making it harder for dogs to remove and ensuring it keeps working even after the ball gets punctured. It’s easy to grip, lightweight, and works equally well for indoor or outdoor play.
If your Australian Shepherd thrives on high-energy games, this ball is an excellent choice to satisfy their chase instincts while giving them plenty of mental and physical stimulation.
Key Features
- Recessed squeaker continues to work after puncture
- Durable rubber for long-lasting play
- Irregular shape for unpredictable bounce
- Great for fetch or solo play
- Budget-friendly
- Assorted bright colors
- Trusted KONG brand durability
Price
Frisco Fetch Squeaking Tennis Balls Review
A classic never goes out of style — and Frisco’s Fetch Squeaking Tennis Balls are a budget-friendly must-have for any Aussie who lives for fetch. The three-pack includes brightly colored balls that are easy for dogs to spot in grass or low light, making them ideal for outdoor play.
Each ball features a built-in squeaker that grabs your dog’s attention and keeps them engaged. The felt covering is non-abrasive, helping protect your Aussie’s teeth and gums during play.
While they aren’t built for heavy chewers, they’re perfect for everyday fetch sessions and easy to replace when needed. For their low cost and high entertainment value, these are great to keep in rotation.
Key Features
- Three-pack for great value
- Built-in squeaker for engagement
- Non-abrasive felt protects teeth
- Bright colors for better visibility
- Ideal for fetch-loving Aussies
- Gentle on gums
Price
- 3-pack: $5.99
Frisco Muscle Plush Squeaking Toy Review
For dogs who like soft toys but need something sturdier, the Frisco Muscle Plush Wolf Toy offers extra durability in a plush package. It features reinforced stitching and a hidden squeaker, giving it more staying power than a typical stuffed toy.
The large size makes it great for Aussies who enjoy grabbing, shaking, or carrying their toys. Despite its tougher build, it’s still soft enough for cuddling between play sessions.
While it’s best used under supervision, the Frisco Muscle Plush Wolf strikes a nice balance between comfort and durability, making it an excellent choice for dogs that enjoy both active and gentle play.
Key Features
- Reinforced stitching adds durability
- Built-in squeaker for engagement
- Larger size fits medium to large breeds
- Soft yet tough plush design
- Great for fetch or snuggling
- Affordable price point
- Ideal for supervised play
Price
Frequently Asked Questions
Do you have more questions about finding the right toy for your Australian Shepherd? You’re not alone — these are some of the most common ones we hear from Aussie owners. If you don’t see your question here, please ask us in our comments.
What Types Of Toys Are Best For My Aussie?
Every Aussie is different, so it depends on your dog’s play style. In general, look for toys that engage both mind and body — durable rubber toys for chewing, fetch toys for exercise, and puzzle or treat-dispensing toys to challenge their intelligence. Rotating between toy types helps prevent boredom.
Are There Any Toys That My Aussie Won’t Break Apart?
No toy is truly indestructible, but some are designed to last much longer than others. Look for heavy-duty rubber or reinforced nylon toys made for power chewers, like the KONG Extreme. Always supervise your Aussie during play, and replace toys that show signs of wear.
Is One Toy Enough For My Aussie?
Definitely not. Australian Shepherds need mental and physical variety to stay happy and well-behaved. Keep several types of toys on hand — chew toys, fetch balls, puzzles, and plush toys for downtime — and rotate them regularly to keep things interesting.
Are Some Materials Dangerous For My Australian Shepherd?
Yes. Avoid toys made with toxic plastics or low-quality glues, and steer clear of anything that doesn’t list its materials clearly. Stick with natural rubber, BPA-free plastic, or non-toxic nylon. And remember, if a toy starts breaking down, replace it before your dog swallows a piece.
Keeping Aussies Mentally & Physically Stimulated
Australian Shepherds are brilliant, active, and built for hard work, which means they need constant outlets for their energy. A mix of safe, durable toys and mentally stimulating activities helps keep your pup content and focused.
Explore our related guides to keep your Aussie’s mind and body in top shape:
What toys have you found to keep your Aussie mentally and physically engaged? Please share in our comments to help other pup parents!
