4 Dog Toys and Grooming Essentials Dogs Love
Disclosure: As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. Product links on this page go to Amazon and are affiliate links, so we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. We do not list prices because they change often; use the buttons to check the current price.
A bored dog is usually a busy dog in the wrong way: chewed shoes, restless pacing or nonstop barking. The fix is often simple. Give them something rewarding to chew, a reason to run, and a few minutes of grooming that keeps their coat healthy and the couch less furry.
These four products are long-time favorites among dog owners, each with thousands of strong ratings. We checked every rating and rating count on Amazon on the date above. Prices change, so check the current price before buying, and always pick the size that fits your dog and supervise them with new toys.
At a glance: our picks compared
| Product | Best for | Amazon rating | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| KONG Classic Stuffable Dog Toy (Large) | Keeping dogs busy, crate time and stuffing with treats | 4.6/5 (93,820 ratings) | Check price |
| Benebone Wishbone Dog Chew (Bacon, Medium) | Strong chewers who need a long-lasting chew | 4.5/5 (110,505 ratings) | Check price |
| Chuckit! Ultra Ball (Medium, 2 Pack) | High-bounce fetch in the yard, park or pool | 4.8/5 (108,361 ratings) | Check price |
| Hertzko Self-Cleaning Slicker Brush | Brushing out loose undercoat and tangles | 4.5/5 (91,897 ratings) | Check price |
1. Best all-around toy: KONG Classic Stuffable Dog Toy (Large)
Rated 4.6 out of 5 by 93,820 Amazon shoppers (checked October 30, 2026). Price: check current price on Amazon.
Why we like it
The KONG Classic has been a staple for decades, and it still earns its place in nearly every dog-owning household. The natural rubber is tough and bouncy, so it works for chewing and for unpredictable fetch. The real magic is the hollow center: stuff it with kibble, treats or dog-safe peanut butter, and it becomes a puzzle that keeps dogs focused and calm.
Trainers often recommend it for crate training and separation anxiety, because it gives a dog something positive to do while you are away.
Who it's for
Dogs that get bored easily, puppies in crate training, and owners who want a quiet, mentally engaging toy. The Large suits most medium-to-large dogs.
Pros
- Durable natural rubber
- Stuffable for long-lasting enrichment
- Erratic bounce makes fetch fun
- Dishwasher safe on the top rack
Cons
- Extreme chewers may need the tougher Extreme version
- Needs cleaning after sticky fillings
2. Best long-lasting chew: Benebone Wishbone Dog Chew (Bacon, Medium)
Rated 4.5 out of 5 by 110,505 Amazon shoppers (checked October 30, 2026). Price: check current price on Amazon.
Why we like it
The Benebone Wishbone's curved shape is clever: it lifts off the ground so dogs can grip it easily with their paws, which makes chewing more satisfying and keeps them at it longer. It is made with real bacon flavor infused into a tough nylon, so it smells irresistible to most dogs while holding up far better than edible chews.
It is made in the USA and is one of the most rated chew toys on Amazon.
Who it's for
Strong chewers, dogs who destroy plush toys in minutes, and owners who want a chew that lasts weeks instead of minutes.
Pros
- Ergonomic shape that is easy to hold
- Real bacon flavor dogs love
- Very durable for strong chewers
- Made in the USA
Cons
- Hard nylon is not edible; remove once it gets small or rough
- Too firm for senior dogs with sensitive teeth
3. Best for fetch: Chuckit! Ultra Ball (Medium, 2 Pack)
Rated 4.8 out of 5 by 108,361 Amazon shoppers (checked October 30, 2026). Price: check current price on Amazon.
Why we like it
The Chuckit Ultra Ball is the fetch ball many dog owners switch to after one too many shredded tennis balls. It is made of durable rubber with an extra-thick core and a textured surface, so it bounces far higher than a standard tennis ball and holds up to rough play. It is lightweight and floats, which makes it just as good for the pool or lake as for the backyard.
The medium size is 2.5 inches across, fits medium Chuckit launchers for longer, slobber-free throws, and comes as a 2 pack, so you have a spare when one rolls under the deck. With more than 100,000 ratings, it is one of the top dog toy balls on Amazon.
Who it's for
High-energy dogs who live for fetch, water-loving breeds, and dogs of roughly 20 to 60 pounds (the brand's guidance for the medium size).
Pros
- Very high bounce for exciting fetch
- Floats in water
- Durable rubber with a thick core
- Works with medium Chuckit launchers
Cons
- Not a chew toy; Chuckit says it is not intended for aggressive chewers
- Size up for large dogs so the ball cannot fit entirely in their mouth
4. Best grooming tool: Hertzko Self-Cleaning Slicker Brush
Rated 4.5 out of 5 by 91,897 Amazon shoppers (checked October 30, 2026). Price: check current price on Amazon.
Why we like it
Brushing removes loose hair before it ends up on the floor, and it keeps coats shiny and free of mats. The Hertzko slicker brush uses fine bent bristles that reach through the topcoat to lift loose undercoat and tangles. When you are done, press the button and the bristles retract, so the hair slides right off in one clump.
It works for both dogs and cats, and the comfortable handle makes longer grooming sessions easier on your hand.
Who it's for
Owners of shedding breeds, long-haired dogs and cats, and anyone who wants less fur on clothes and furniture.
Pros
- Removes loose undercoat and tangles effectively
- One-click self-cleaning design
- Works on dogs and cats
- Comfortable, non-slip handle
Cons
- Brush gently; fine bristles can irritate skin with heavy pressure
- Not a replacement for a deshedding tool on very thick double coats
How to pick the right dog toys
- Size up, not down: a toy that is too small can be a choking hazard. When in doubt, choose the larger size.
- Match the chewer: gentle chewers can enjoy most toys, while power chewers need durable rubber or nylon.
- Rotate toys: swapping toys every few days keeps them feeling new and interesting.
- Inspect regularly: replace any toy that cracks, splinters or becomes small enough to swallow.
- Mix mental and physical play: a stuffed KONG works the brain, while fetch works the body. Most dogs need both.
Frequently asked questions
What size KONG should I buy?
Choose a size your dog cannot fit entirely in its mouth. The Large suits most dogs of roughly 30 to 65 pounds; check KONG's size chart on the listing for your dog's weight.
Is the Benebone safe for puppies?
Benebone recommends its regular chews for adult dogs and offers puppy versions for young teeth. Always supervise chewing and replace the chew when it becomes small or worn.
How often should I brush my dog?
Short-coated dogs do well with weekly brushing, while double-coated breeds like retrievers and huskies benefit from brushing several times a week, especially during shedding season.
How do I make a KONG last longer?
Stuff it with a mix of kibble and a soft food or dog-safe peanut butter, then freeze it overnight. A frozen KONG can keep many dogs busy for 20 minutes or more.
The bottom line
If you only buy one thing, get the KONG Classic. It is durable, versatile and keeps dogs mentally busy in a way few toys can. Add the Benebone Wishbone for strong chewers, the Chuckit Ultra Ball for high-energy fetch, and the Hertzko slicker brush to keep shedding under control.
Related reading: home workout essentials.
As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. Ratings were checked on October 30, 2026; prices and availability change, so check Amazon for current details.
