Shih Tzus love soft toys they can carry and durable enough for gentle tugging. The KONG Classic is top rated for mental stimulation without strenuous effort.
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Best Overall: KONG Classic Stuffable Dog Toy. The Kong Classic is tough yet soft enough for Shih Tzu teeth.
Best Value: Outward Hound Hide-A-Squirrel Dog Toy Interactive 2in1 Plush Puzzle. This plush puzzle toy satisfies your Shih Tzu's instinct to forage.
Best Premium: WEST PAW Zogoflex Hurley Dog Bone Chew Toy Floatable Pet Toys. Made from non toxic Zogoflex material, this bone is durable yet flexible for Shih Tzu jaws.
Best for Sensitive Needs: Pupstages Grow-with-Me Ring Dog Chew Toy. Designed for puppies and small breeds, this ring cleans teeth while being gentle on gums.
When choosing toys for a Shih Tzu, prioritize durability and size because their small mouths and brachycephalic breathing require toys that are easy to grasp and don’t require heavy chewing. Our editorial team recommends toys that are gentle on teeth and safe for their flat faces.
Shih Tzus are playful but have sensitive respiratory systems, so avoid toys that encourage excessive running or heavy panting. Look for soft, plush toys or interactive puzzles that stimulate their mind without overexertion.
Why this matters
We found that Shih Tzus prefer toys that are soft enough to carry but durable enough to withstand gentle tugging. Interactive toys that challenge their mind without requiring strenuous physical effort are best suited for this breed.
The Rankings
Top 4 Picks
#1
Best Overall
KONG Classic Stuffable Dog Toy
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The Kong Classic is tough yet soft enough for Shih Tzu teeth. Its small size fits their mouth, and you can stuff it with treats for mental stimulation. The irregular bounce keeps play interesting without overexertion.
Outward Hound Hide-A-Squirrel Dog Toy Interactive 2in1 Plush Puzzle
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This plush puzzle toy satisfies your Shih Tzu's instinct to forage. The small squirrels fit perfectly in their mouth, and the soft fabric is gentle on their teeth. It's affordable and machine washable.
WEST PAW Zogoflex Hurley Dog Bone Chew Toy Floatable Pet Toys
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Made from non toxic Zogoflex material, this bone is durable yet flexible for Shih Tzu jaws. It floats for water play and is dishwasher safe. The small size is ideal for their small mouth.
Designed for puppies and small breeds, this ring cleans teeth while being gentle on gums. The soft, flexible texture is ideal for Shih Tzu prone to dental issues. It also soothes teething if you have a puppy.
Shih Tzus have small mouths and weak jaws. Choose toys under 5 inches and lightweight so they can carry them easily. Oversized toys can strain their neck or cause frustration.
02
Material Safety
Shih Tzus are prone to allergies and sensitive skin. Opt for non toxic, hypoallergenic materials like natural rubber or soft plush. Avoid cheap plastics or sharp edges that could irritate their mouth.
03
Durability vs. Gentleness
While Shih Tzus aren't power chewers, they still need toys that withstand regular play. Look for reinforced seams on plush toys or chew resistant rubber. Avoid hard bones that can crack teeth.
04
Respiratory Considerations
Due to their flat faces, Shih Tzus can overheat or tire easily. Pick toys that don't require excessive running or heavy panting. Interactive puzzle toys are ideal for indoor play.
05
Dental Health
Shih Tzus are prone to dental problems. Toys with gentle nubs or ridges can help clean teeth and massage gums. Avoid toys that are too hard or abrasive.
06
Washability
Shih Tzus often drool or get food on toys. Choose machine washable or dishwasher safe options to maintain hygiene and reduce allergens.
Living With It
Care, Cost and Maintenance
Inspect Regularly
Check toys for loose parts, tears, or wear. Shih Tzus can choke on small pieces, so replace damaged toys immediately.
Clean Weekly
Wash plush toys in a pillowcase on gentle cycle. For rubber toys, scrub with mild soap and water. Dishwasher safe toys can be cleaned on top rack.
Rotate Toys
Shih Tzus get bored easily. Rotate 3-4 toys every few days to keep them engaged and prevent overattachment to a single toy.
Pro tip
Our team suggests introducing new toys with a small treat hidden inside to spark curiosity. Shih Tzus respond well to positive reinforcement, so praise them when they play appropriately.
Frequently asked questions
Are rope toys safe for Shih Tzu?
Rope toys can be safe if supervised, but Shih Tzus may ingest fibers leading to intestinal blockages. Choose tightly woven ropes and discard if frayed.
Can Shih Tzus have squeaky toys?
Yes, but supervise closely. Shih Tzus can easily remove squeakers, which pose a choking hazard. Opt for toys with reinforced squeaker pockets.
How often should I replace my Shih Tzu's toys?
Replace plush toys every 1-2 months or when showing wear. Rubber toys can last longer but check for cracks. Rotate toys to maintain interest.
What toys help with Shih Tzu separation anxiety?
Puzzle toys like treat dispensers or snuffle mats can distract your Shih Tzu. The Outward Hound Hide A Squirrel is great for solo play.
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 Dogs, 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.
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.
