๐Ÿ† Complete Buyer's Guide ยท Dog Care Products

Dog Subscription Box for Dogs under 20 Lbs: A Buyer’s Guide

Small dogs need smaller, softer toys. We compared 2026's best subscription boxes for dogs under 20 lbs, including BarkBox Small Dog Toy Subscription, focusing on safety, customization, and value.

Some links below are affiliate links. If you buy through them we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Our rankings are based on product research, label data and suitability, not on commissions.

BarkBox Small Dog Toy Subscription โ˜… Top Pick: BarkBox Small Dog Toy Subscription Check Price on Amazon →
5
Picks evaluated
Under 20 lbs
Dog weight range
Monthly
Delivery frequency
2 to 5
Items per box
โšก Key takeaways
  • Best Overall: BarkBox Small Dog Toy Subscription. BarkBox delivers 2 plush toys, 2 treats, and a chew monthly, all sized for dogs under 20 l.
  • Best for Aggressive Chewers: Bullymake Small Dog Box. Bullymake offers nylon and rubber toys designed for tough chewers.
  • Best Puzzle Toy: PupBox (by Bark) Small Dog Subscription. PupBox includes age-appropriate puzzle toys, dental chews, and training treats.
  • Best Dental Chew: Chewy.com Goody Box Small Dog. Chewy's Goody Box features Greenies dental chews and other dental treats.
  • Best Budget: Pet Treater Small Dog Subscription Box. Pet Treater offers a low-cost monthly box with 5 to 7 treats and a toy.
At a Glance

Quick Comparison

Quick answer

The best dog subscription box for dogs under 20 lbs is the BarkBox Small Dog Toy Subscription. It delivers 2 plush toys, 2 treats, and a chew each month, all sized for small mouths. For a budget-friendly option, Bullymake Small Dog Box offers durable nylon toys. If your dog needs dental support, PupBox (by Bark) includes age-appropriate dental chews and training treats.

What to consider for Dog Subscription Box For Dogs Under 20 Lbs

Small dogs have unique needs: they require smaller toys to prevent choking, softer chews to protect teeth, and treats sized for tiny tummies. Look for boxes that offer customization based on your dog’s weight, chew strength, and dietary restrictions. Avoid boxes with large or hard items that could cause injury. Also consider the frequency of delivery and whether you can skip or cancel easily.

What to look for in a toy or chew (chew toy, puzzle, lick mat or dental chew)

Choose toys and chews that are appropriately sized for your dog’s mouth to prevent choking. Durability should match your dog’s chew strength: light chewers can use plush toys, while moderate chewers need rubber or nylon. Ensure materials are non-toxic and free from BPA, phthalates, and lead. For dental chews, look for the VOHC seal of acceptance. Enrichment value is key: puzzle toys and lick mats provide mental stimulation and can reduce anxiety.

How we chose these picks

  • We evaluated subscription boxes based on toy size suitability for dogs under 20 lbs.
  • We prioritized boxes that offer customization for chew strength and dietary needs.
  • We considered the variety of items: toys, chews, treats, and functional products.
  • We reviewed customer feedback for durability and safety.
  • We assessed value for money, including shipping costs and cancellation policies.
  • We checked for non-toxic materials and safety certifications.
  • We favored boxes that include enrichment items like puzzle toys or lick mats.
  • Never ranked a product higher just because it pays a commission.

What to avoid

  • Toys that are small enough to be swallowed whole or cause choking.
  • Hard chews like antlers or bones that can crack small dogs’ teeth.
  • Toys that shed pieces, stuffing, or squeakers easily.
  • Leaving any dog unsupervised with a new toy or chew, especially heavy chewers.

For more guidance, explore our dog guides, dog food, and dog health resources.

Why this matters

Small dogs under 20 lbs have unique needs: they require smaller, softer toys and chews to prevent injury. Subscription boxes that offer customization for size and chew strength provide the best value and safety.

The Options

Types Explained

Chew Toy

Durable rubber or nylon toys designed for gnawing. They satisfy natural chewing instincts and can be stuffed with treats.

Best for: Moderate to heavy chewers who need a long-lasting outlet.

Puzzle Toy

Interactive toys that hide treats or require manipulation to release food. They provide mental stimulation.

Best for: Bored or anxious dogs that need enrichment.

Lick Mat

A textured mat that you spread with soft food like peanut butter or yogurt. It soothes and occupies dogs.

Best for: Dogs that lick excessively or need calming during grooming.

Dental Chew

Edible chews formulated to reduce plaque and tartar. Look for the VOHC seal for proven efficacy.

Best for: Dogs needing dental health support in a tasty format.
The Rankings

Top 5 Picks

#1
BarkBox Small Dog Toy Subscription
Best Overall

BarkBox Small Dog Toy Subscription

View on Amazon

BarkBox delivers 2 plush toys, 2 treats, and a chew monthly, all sized for dogs under 20 lbs. The toys are double-stitched for durability, but heavy chewers may destroy them quickly. The treats are limited-ingredient, but some dogs may have allergies.

#2
Bullymake Small Dog Box
Best for Aggressive Chewers

Bullymake Small Dog Box

View on Amazon

Bullymake offers nylon and rubber toys designed for tough chewers. The small size fits dogs under 20 lbs, but the toys are very hard and may be too tough for light chewers. The box includes 2 toys and 2 treats, but treat options are limited.

#3
Best Puzzle Toy

PupBox (by Bark) Small Dog Subscription

View on Amazon

PupBox includes age-appropriate puzzle toys, dental chews, and training treats. The toys encourage mental stimulation, but the box is more expensive than others. Some puzzles may be too easy for smart dogs.

#4
Chewy.com Goody Box Small Dog
Best Dental Chew

Chewy.com Goody Box Small Dog

View on Amazon

Chewy's Goody Box features Greenies dental chews and other dental treats. The box is customizable and includes a toy, but the toy quality varies. The dental chews have the VOHC seal, but they are high in calories.

#5
Best Budget

Pet Treater Small Dog Subscription Box

View on Amazon

Pet Treater offers a low-cost monthly box with 5 to 7 treats and a toy. The toy is often a plush or rubber item, but durability is inconsistent. The treats are from various brands, but some may contain fillers.

Before You Buy

Key Buying Factors

01

Size and Safety

Ensure all items are sized for small mouths to prevent choking. Look for toys that are too large to swallow but small enough to carry.

02

Chew Strength

Match the box to your dog's chew style. Light chewers need soft plush, while heavy chewers require durable rubber or nylon.

03

Customization

Choose a box that lets you specify weight, allergies, and toy preferences to avoid unwanted items.

04

Ingredient Quality

Check treat ingredients for artificial additives, fillers, and common allergens like corn or wheat.

05

Value and Flexibility

Compare cost per item, shipping fees, and cancellation policies. Some boxes allow skipping months.

Living With It

Care, Cost and Maintenance

Inspect Regularly

Check toys and chews for signs of wear, such as cracks, loose parts, or fraying. Replace immediately if damaged to prevent ingestion.

Clean as Needed

Wash rubber and nylon toys with warm soapy water. Plush toys can be machine washed on a gentle cycle. Lick mats are dishwasher safe.

Rotate Toys

Offer a variety of toys to keep your dog engaged. Rotate them every few days to maintain novelty and prevent boredom.

Pro tip

Rotate the toys from your subscription box every few days to keep your dog engaged. This prevents boredom and extends the life of each toy.

Frequently asked questions

Are these subscription boxes safe for heavy chewers?
It depends on the box. Bullymake and BarkBox Super Chewer are designed for heavy chewers, but always supervise your dog. Heavy chewers can destroy even durable toys, so inspect regularly. Avoid boxes with plush toys if your dog shreds fabric. For extreme chewers, consider a box with only rubber or nylon items.
How do I size a toy for my small dog?
A toy should be larger than your dog's mouth to prevent swallowing. For dogs under 20 lbs, choose toys labeled 'small' or 'extra small.' Measure the toy's length and width; it should be at least 1.5 times the length of your dog's snout. Avoid toys with small parts that can break off.
Should I supervise my dog with subscription box toys?
Yes, always supervise your dog with new toys, especially the first few uses. Watch for signs of choking or ingestion of pieces. Even durable toys can be chewed into small parts. If your dog is an aggressive chewer, limit playtime and remove the toy if it shows damage.
What are the benefits of dental chews in subscription boxes?
Dental chews help reduce plaque and tartar buildup, freshen breath, and promote gum health. Look for chews with the VOHC seal, which indicates they meet standards for safety and efficacy. However, they should not replace regular brushing. Some chews are high in calories, so adjust your dog's diet accordingly.
Can puzzle toys help with boredom?
Yes, puzzle toys provide mental stimulation and can reduce destructive behaviors caused by boredom. They challenge your dog to solve a problem for a treat reward. For small dogs, choose puzzles with easy-to-manipulate parts. Rotate puzzles to keep them interesting.
Are digestible chews better than non-digestible ones?
Digestible chews (like rawhide alternatives) are safer if swallowed, but they can still cause blockages if eaten in large pieces. Non-digestible chews (like nylon) last longer but pose a choking risk if broken. For small dogs, digestible chews are often recommended, but always supervise and choose appropriate sizes.
How do I clean the toys from subscription boxes?
Most rubber and nylon toys can be washed with warm water and mild soap. Plush toys are often machine washable; place them in a pillowcase to protect them. Lick mats are usually dishwasher safe. Always air dry thoroughly to prevent mold.
What safety concerns should I watch for?
Choking is the biggest risk: ensure toys are too large to swallow. Also watch for sharp edges, loose parts, and toxic materials. Avoid toys with squeakers that can be ingested. For dental chews, monitor for pieces that could cause intestinal blockage. If your dog shows signs of distress, contact your vet.
Can I cancel a subscription box easily?
Most subscription boxes allow cancellation online, but policies vary. BarkBox and Chewy allow easy cancellation. Bullymake requires a 30-day notice. Always read the terms before subscribing. Some boxes offer skip-a-month options if you need a break.
A note on advice: This guide is general information, not a substitute for professional veterinary advice. Talk to your vet before changing your dog's diet or care routine, especially if your dog has allergies, kidney disease, pancreatitis, obesity, heart disease or any other medical condition.
Transparency

How we made this guide

How we chose. We compared the options on the factors that matter most for Dog Care Products, using manufacturer specifications, aggregated verified owner reviews and editorial comparison. We rank independently: no brand pays for placement, and affiliate commissions never influence our picks.

How it was written. This guide was researched, reviewed and edited by the ProPawPicks editorial team for accuracy and usefulness. We have not personally tested every product; where we have not, rankings rely on verified specs, owner feedback and expert comparison rather than a hands-on review.

Affiliate disclosure. ProPawPicks is reader-supported. If you buy through links on our site, we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. See our affiliate disclosure.

Keep Reading

More Dog Care Products guides

Interactive Dog Toys for Boredom: Our ShortlistView picks โ†’Invisible Dog Fence for Large Dogs: 5 Best Picks (2026)View picks โ†’2026 Puppy Fence Guide: 5 Top Invisible Dog Fences ReviewedView picks โ†’Best Invisible Dog Fence for Small Dogs 2026: 5 Top Picks ReviewedView picks โ†’Invisible Dog Fence under 50 That Hold UpView picks โ†’The Best Invisible Fence for Dog WirelessView picks โ†’

Sources and further reading

Some links below are affiliate links. If you buy through them we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Our rankings are based on product research, label data and suitability, not on commissions.