You do not need to spend a fortune to keep your dog entertained, mentally stimulated, and happy. Some of the best dog toys in NZ come in well under $20, and they are built to last through fetch sessions, tug-of-war battles, and plenty of chewing.
This guide rounds up our favourite affordable dog toys across every play style, from plush companions and rope toys to tough chew toys, treat dispensers, and fetch favourites. Every toy featured here is under $20 and available at Petdirect.
Quality Does Not Mean Expensive
Many of the best-rated dog toys on Petdirect are under $20. Brands like Pup & Purr, M-PETS, and Coco & Cooper deliver durability and fun at prices that make sense.
Variety Keeps Dogs Engaged
Dogs get bored of the same toy. Rotating between different types (plush, chew, fetch, puzzle) keeps playtime fresh and mentally stimulating.
Match the Toy to the Dog
A toy that is too small is a choking hazard. A toy that is too soft for a power chewer will not last a day. Choose based on your dog's size, age, and play style.
Best Affordable Plush Toys
Plush toys are perfect for dogs that love to carry, cuddle, and gently mouth their toys. These picks are soft, squeaky, and built with reinforced stitching to handle everyday play.
Pup & Purr Sir Duckworth Duck is a fan favourite with a built-in squeaker and soft plush body. Coco & Cooper Casey Croc is a corduroy plush with crinkle and squeak features that dogs love. M-PETS Play Charly is a compact plush toy with a squeaker, ideal for small to medium dogs.
Best Affordable Chew Toys
Chew toys satisfy your dog's natural urge to gnaw, help clean teeth, and keep them occupied. These affordable options are designed to withstand regular chewing without falling apart.
M-PETS Chewood Bone is made from durable, non-toxic material that mimics the texture of real wood without the splintering risk. M-PETS Vice Versa Ball Beef is a flavoured chew ball that keeps dogs interested for longer. M-PETS Greenbo Natural Rubber Bone is an eco-friendly option made from natural rubber with a satisfying chew texture.
Best Affordable Rope and Tug Toys
Rope toys are brilliant for interactive tug-of-war, solo chewing, and even dental health. The fibres help clean teeth as your dog chews, and they are some of the most durable toys you can buy at this price point.
Pup & Purr Triple Tugger Three Knot Rope is a classic tug toy with three sturdy knots for grip. Pup & Purr Double Trouble Two Knot Rope is a slightly smaller option that suits medium dogs perfectly. Coco & Cooper Rumble Ring Rope adds a spiked ball element for extra chewing interest.
Best Affordable Treat-Dispensing and Puzzle Toys
Treat-dispensing toys turn snack time into a mental workout. They slow down fast eaters, reduce boredom, and keep dogs occupied when you need a break. These are some of the best value puzzle toys available.
Pup & Purr Treat Spinner is a tough, rolling toy that dispenses treats as your dog nudges and paws at it. Pup & Purr Geo Treater Ball has a geometric design that makes treats fall out unpredictably, keeping dogs engaged for longer. Pup & Purr Snack Stacker is a stuffable toy similar in concept to a KONG, perfect for freezing with peanut butter or wet food.
Best Affordable Fetch Toys
Fetch is one of the simplest and most effective ways to exercise your dog. These affordable fetch toys are lightweight, visible, and built to bounce and fly.
Pup & Purr Squeak Squad 3 Pack Tennis Balls gives you three squeaky tennis balls for the price of one premium ball elsewhere. Pup & Purr Flying Disc is a tough, flexible frisbee that floats on water and flies straight. M-PETS Play Squeaky Ball is a durable, bouncy ball with a built-in squeaker that dogs go crazy for.
Best Affordable Eco-Friendly Toys
If sustainability matters to you, these toys are made from recycled or natural materials without compromising on fun or durability.
M-PETS Coto Natural Cotton Loop Ball is made from 100% natural cotton rope, fully biodegradable and great for tug and fetch. M-PETS Terra Ella is part of the Terra eco-friendly plush range, made from recycled materials with a squeaker inside. M-PETS Chewtopia Sheep is another eco-friendly plush option with recycled filling and a playful design dogs love.
How to get the most out of affordable dog toys
- Rotate toys every few days. Put some away and bring them back later so they feel new again.
- Match the toy to the play style. Fetch lovers need balls and discs. Chewers need durable rubber or nylon. Cuddlers need plush.
- Supervise first play sessions with any new toy to make sure it is the right size and durability for your dog.
- Replace toys when they start to break down. Loose squeakers, torn fabric, and small pieces can be choking hazards.
- Use treat-dispensing toys to keep your dog busy when you leave the house or need quiet time.
- Spend over $79 to get free shipping on your order at Petdirect.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are cheap dog toys safe?
Price does not determine safety. The toys featured in this guide are from reputable brands that meet safety standards. Always choose a toy appropriate for your dog's size and chewing strength, and supervise play with any new toy.
What is the best type of toy for a puppy under $20?
Puppies benefit from a mix of soft plush toys for comfort, rubber chew toys for teething, and small rope toys for gentle tug. Pup & Purr and M-PETS both offer great options in this price range.
How often should I replace my dog's toys?
Replace toys as soon as they show signs of significant wear, such as torn fabric, exposed stuffing, loose squeakers, or broken pieces. With affordable toys, you can rotate and replace more frequently without worrying about cost.
Can affordable toys withstand heavy chewers?
Some can. The M-PETS Chewood range and Pup & Purr Tough range are designed for moderate to heavy chewers. For extreme power chewers, you may need to step up to brands like Benebone or KONG.
What brands make the best affordable dog toys in NZ?
Pup & Purr, M-PETS, and Coco & Cooper consistently deliver quality dog toys under $20. They are available exclusively at Petdirect and cover everything from plush and rope to tough chew and treat-dispensing toys.
Great Toys Do Not Have to Cost a Fortune
Shop dog toys from Pup & Purr, M-PETS, and Coco & Cooper. Earn Airpoints Dollars on every purchase with Pet Perks, plus enjoy free shipping on orders over $79.
SHOP DOG TOYSRelated Reading
Dog Toy Buying Guide NZ: How to Choose by Size, Age and Play Style
Best Interactive Dog Toys in NZ: A Complete Buyer's Guide
Best Indestructible Dog Toys in NZ: Top Picks for Power Chewers
Great Value Pet Supplies NZ
M-PETS Great Value Pet Accessories for Kiwi Homes
Coco and Cooper: Petdirect's Exclusive Great Value Pet Brand