Why Dog Owners Swear by Kong Toys – and Why Your Pup Might Too

When it comes to keeping your dog entertained, mentally stimulated, and out of mischief, few products are as well-known or well-loved as the KONG. If your pup hasn’t been introduced yet, there’s a good chance your furniture is paying the price.

This blog unpacks why KONG dog toys are such a hit with Kiwi dog owners — and how Petdirect makes it easy to find the perfect one for your pooch.

What Are KONG Dog Toys?

KONG dog toys are durable, hollow rubber toys designed to be stuffed with treats or food. Their unique shape makes them bounce unpredictably, and their tough rubber composition satisfies dogs’ natural urge to chew.

There are different versions for puppies, adult dogs, and power chewers, with various sizes to suit toy breeds to large dogs.

Why Kiwi Dogs (and Their Humans) Love KONGs

At Petdirect, we hear time and time again how these simple toys transform a dog’s day. They’re loved for:

• Mental stimulation – Dogs enjoy the challenge of getting food out of the toy.

• Boredom busting – A stuffed KONG can keep a dog occupied for 30 minutes or more.

• Reducing anxiety – Especially when frozen, a KONG can help soothe stressed or nervous dogs.

• Redirecting chewing – KONGs help protect shoes, couches and chair legs from becoming chew toys.

KONGs aren’t just toys – they’re enrichment tools that support healthy behaviour and wellbeing.

Best-Selling KONG Dog Toys in New Zealand

Petdirect stocks the full range of KONG toys, and we offer free delivery on orders over $79, including rural addresses. Our most popular picks include:

• KONG Classic Dog Toy
  The original KONG, perfect for most dogs and ideal for stuffing with food or treats.

• KONG Extreme Dog Toy
  Extra-durable for heavy chewers or large breeds.

• KONG Puppy Dog Toy
  Softer rubber designed for growing teeth and gums.

• KONG Wobbler Dog Toy
  A food-dispensing toy that rocks and rolls unpredictably.

• KONG Goodie Bone Dog Toy
  Bone-shaped with treat-holding ends to extend playtime.

You can browse the full collection here: All KONG Dog Toys at Petdirect

Stuff It Right: Easy KONG Filler Ideas

Looking for ideas to keep your dog engaged for longer? Try these simple recipes:

• Dry kibble mixed with wet dog food and frozen

• Mashed banana with a teaspoon of xylitol-free peanut butter

• Pumpkin purée with a few broken-up treats

• Natural yoghurt and dog-safe berries

A frozen KONG takes longer to empty and adds soothing value for anxious pups or teething puppies.

Why It’s a Vet-Approved Favourite

KONGs are recommended by trainers and vets across New Zealand for good reason. They support positive chewing behaviour, reduce separation anxiety, and encourage slower eating in food-driven dogs.

KONG toys are especially helpful in:

• Crate training

• Redirecting destructive chewing

• Distracting dogs during fireworks or storms

• Building positive associations with alone time

Is a KONG Right for Your Dog?

If your dog chews, barks, gets bored, eats too fast, or struggles with separation — the answer is yes. And even if they don’t, it’s still one of the simplest and most effective enrichment tools available.

You can shop our full KONG range online at Petdirect.co.nz and enjoy fast shipping anywhere in Aotearoa.