Best Dog Toys by Breed: Cavoodles, Border Collies, French Bulldogs & German Shepherds
Every dog is a good dog — but when it comes to playtime, not every toy suits every pup. From gentle-natured Cavoodles to loyal, high-energy German Shepherds, each breed brings its own quirks and chewing styles. That’s why we’ve put together this breed-by-breed dog toy guide. You’ll discover which toys are best matched with your dog’s size, personality and play preferences — because at Petdirect, We Get Pet.
Whether your dog loves a good tug-of-war, is on a mission to demolish their toys, or prefers puzzle-solving over pouncing, we’ve handpicked the best toy types for popular breeds in Aotearoa.
Cavoodles: For Gentle Mouths and Curious Minds
Cavoodles are affectionate, clever, and thrive on interaction — making them ideal candidates for interactive and soft toys.
- Plush toys for snuggles between zoomies
- Interactive puzzle toys to challenge their bright minds
- Calming toys for separation anxiety-prone pups
For indoor fun or light chewers, this breed does well with soft textures and toys that include hidden treats or squeakers. Give your Cavoodle a little extra tail-wagging joy with enrichment toys designed to keep them stimulated and mentally sharp.
Border Collies: Brainy and Born to Play
Border Collies are energetic and highly intelligent — which means they’re easily bored without the right mental and physical outlet. The best toys will combine the two.
- Fetch toys to burn off energy in the backyard or at the park
- Tough chew toys to keep busy jaws satisfied
- Advanced logic-based toys to test problem-solving skills
Look for high-durability toys like those from KONG or Brightkins, which are designed to entertain more determined chewers or thinkers. Perfect for a clever Collie!
French Bulldogs: Compact Size, Big Personality
While French Bulldogs might not be long-distance runners, they pack plenty of fun into short bursts of play. They're also known for loving human company and needing toys that aren’t too tough to grip with their shorter snouts.
- Sturdy, soft plush toys with squeakers to amp up excitement
- Rope toys for fun tug sessions with pet parents
- Dental chew toys for oral health and enrichment
Due to their flat faces, opt for toys that are easy to grab and don’t require too much jaw pressure. Bonus points if they involve their humans too — Frenchies love being part of the action.
German Shepherds: Smart, Strong, and Always On
The legendary German Shepherd needs toys that can really keep up. These dogs are known for their work ethic, sharp intellect, and high-energy lifestyle, so toy time is important — and durability is key.
- Power chew toys for serious gnawing
- Brain games and puzzle toys to keep their minds engaged
- Tough fetch and tug toys for active outdoor fun
Look for products that pair strength with smarts. For shepherd-sized challenges, rugged interactive toys from brands like Nina Ottosson and West Paw are ideal choices.
Toy Tips for Every Breed
No matter the breed, a few golden rules will help you make the most of playtime:
- Match toy size and toughness to your dog’s breed, age and chewing style
- Keep things interesting by rotating toys weekly
- Monitor interactive play with pet cameras if you’re not home
- Support physical and mental wellbeing with toys that challenge and reward
And remember, all dogs are individuals. These breed tendencies are just the starting point — your dog might surprise you with their toy preferences!
Ready to Fetch the Perfect Toy?
Play is more than fun — it’s essential for your dog’s health, behaviour, and happiness. Whether you’re shopping for a teething puppy, a calm senior, or an energetic adolescent, Petdirect has a toy to match every tail wag.
Explore our full range of dog toys and take advantage of our Pet Perks programme to earn rewards while you shop. We also offer Autodeliver for those favourite toys your dog just can’t live without.
Because we get dogs, we get playtime right. Shop smarter, play longer, and keep those tails wagging with Petdirect.