The Boston Terrier, affectionately known as the American Gentleman (or Gentle Lady!), is a popular little pup who is just as much fun as cute. And it is his Terrier influence that makes him surprisingly boisterous and energetic, playing for hours. But his Bulldog genes make him a lot tougher than he first appears.
When you mix all of this together, finding the right toy can seem almost impossible. But fear not, readers, because we have researched everything you need to know to find your dog the best toys.
We have put together an overview of all the knowledge you need to consider before buying a toy. We also showcase some of the best dog toys for Boston Terriers, reviewing why we love them so much. So, let’s stop toying around and get to it. Your pup is waiting (not so) patiently.
At A Glance: Top Toys For Boston Terriers
Best Plush
Frisco Monkey
Popular Pick
Westpaw Qwizl Tough Toy
Best For Fetch
Chuckit! Flying Squirrel
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Buyer’s Guide
There are so many dog toys available out there, but a lot of them are, let’s be honest, garbage. Our list of consideration factors will help you distinguish the good toys from the bad, as well as ensure that you pick the right toy for your dog. So, let’s take a closer look.
Type Of Play
The Boston breed is little pocket rockets, but not all are the same in their rocket-ness. Just like us humans, they have different play preferences. Some like to chase and fetch, and some like to solve puzzles for food. Some just like to chew, and some love to show off their tug of war skills and shaking abilities. So, to find the best toy for your pup, you need to think about how he likes to play.
If you are about to welcome a pup into your home, you probably don’t know how he likes to play yet. That’s okay. The best thing to do is invest in a variety of toys and have fun discovering how he likes to play. The earlier you start playing with him, the more likely he will enjoy different play styles. Many of the toys we have selected for the Boston combine different play types, and these are great for variety.
Durability
The Boston Terrier is a small pup, but he is full of Terrier energy. So, his toys need to be durable. There’s nothing worse than spending your hard-earned money on a toy for your bestie to destroy in two minutes. For toys to last, they need to be of good quality and made from tough materials. If you have a serious chewer on your hands, you’ll need to look for toys that come with an extreme chewer label.
You don’t have to spend the earth on dog toys. And ultimately, no dog toy is indestructible, and they are not designed to last forever. But for them to last a little bit longer than most, you should spend that little bit more on a good quality dog toy. Look for well-known brands that offer highly rated dog toys. By balancing cost and quality, you’ll achieve better value for money and a happier pup.
Safety
Safety is always the most important consideration in any purchase for Fido, including toys. Thankfully, high-quality dog toys are safe and do not compromise on the fun either. Always avoid cheap toys because they break down quickly and cause a choking hazard. Many cheap dog toys have caused an emergency trip to the vets, and this isn’t fun for anyone.
When searching for a dog toy, always inspect it. Look at the photos to get an understanding of its safety. Is it flimsy or looks weak? Or does it have lots of seams that can be broken? Also, take a look at the reviews of the toy itself. And only invest in a dog toy that has been tried, tested, and rated highly. Read the description and understand what materials it is made from. Does it match up to the needs of your Boston and his chewing powers? If not, avoid it. What might be safe for one dog might not be safe yours.
Last but not least, never leave your dog unintended while playing with a toy. It can go from fun and games to emergency room in under a minute if your dog swallows something he shouldn’t! If your dog does ingest a dangerous object, get you and your dog into the car and head straight to the vet’s office, only stopping long enough to call and let them know you are heading their way.
Size
The Boston Terrier is a small canine, so he likely needs a small dog toy. But not always. Dog toys are not standardized across the market. Therefore just because one toy is best in a small size does not mean they all are. Always read the product description and refer to the sizing instructions, and never assume.
The toy’s size can determine whether it is safe or not, so it is very important to get it right. If it’s too small, it could be swallowed whole, which could require emergency surgery. And if it’s too big, your dog might not be able to pick it up, or he might not want to play with it. If in any doubt, or your Terrier is in between sizes, always choose bigger rather than smaller.
Materials
The material that a toy is made from not only determines its durability but also its safety. Unfortunately, some pet brands use cheap materials to maximize their profits, knowing that the materials are unsafe for dogs. So you need to understand what type of material the toy uses. Below you’ll find a list of commonly used materials that are safe for your dog. This list is not exhaustive, but it is a great place to start.
Rubber
Rubber is a very popular material to use in dog toys. It should be 100% natural and latex-free. Not only is it fun and bouncy to play with, but it is also satisfying for anxious dogs and teething puppies. Rubber is long-lasting, especially rubber toys that are made for extreme chewers. Plus, it is easy to clean, making it a good all-rounder for everyone.
Rope
Rope is another commonly used material for dog toys. It is strong and long-lasting, and it makes a great option for those who love to play tug of war with other dogs or their humans. The rope fibers also help to remove plaque from your dog’s teeth. It aids your four-legged gentleman with his Hollywood smile. Always buy a rope toy especially aimed at dogs, rather than a piece of rope from a hardware store. Often rope from hardware stores is treated with or exposed to chemicals that are unsafe for Fido.
Nylon
Nylon is another fantastic material choice for dog toys. It comes in two forms: hard and soft. Hard nylon is often used in chew toys, as it is durable and can be ridged to aid in his dental hygiene. It is much safer to chew than natural bones because it doesn’t splinter, and it can be flavored too for extra enticement. Softer nylon is often used to make soft toys instead of polyester because it is stronger.
Polyester And Plush
Polyester and plush are used to make soft toys. Softer toys are not that durable and are only for Bostons who do not chew. They can be used for fetching indoors, hiding around the house for nose work fun, and cuddling. Because polyester and plush material tear easier than other materials, you need to be extra cautious. The inside plush and squeakers pose a choking hazard. As soon as you notice any breakage, it needs to be disposed of immediately.
Top Dog Toys For Boston Terriers
Each toy is complete with a review, making it much easier for you to find the best option for Boston Terriers. So, in no particular, let’s take a look.
Busy Buddy Jack Treat Dispenser
- Budget-friendly dog toy.
- Durable nylon construction.
- Top-rack dishwasher safe.
- Rawhide rings attached for chewing.
- Keeps dogs busy for hours.
- Soothes separation anxiety.
- BPA-free materials.
This toy is perfect for keeping your American Gentleman entertained for hours on end. It stimulates his brain and encourages him to use it, thanks to this Busy Buddy mystery. He needs to twist and turn the toy to reach the tasty hidden rawhide pieces. Unlike other treat dispensing toys, the treats cannot be removed. Meaning it keeps him stimulated for longer.
The toy has multiple legs, making it easy to pick up and chew, which is particularly important for the Boston and his flat face. The knobby parts are tactile and massage his gums and teeth for better dental health. The treats are made from all-natural rawhide pieces that are super tasty and can be replaced when he gets through them. It is made from rubber and nylon and can be placed on your dishwasher’s top rack for an easy clean.
We love that this tactile toy is the best option for determined chewers who chews all day long if it means being rewarded with a yummy treat. This one is also great for his dental hygiene.
Frisco Squeaking Monkey
- Budget-friendly.
- Great for tug-of-war and fetch.
- Soft plush fabric.
- Minimal stuffing in construction.
- Built-in rope for durability.
- Built-in squeaker.
- Not recommended for unsupervised play.
Both humans and dogs alike are drawn to soft and cuddly toys. But as you know, these aren’t always the best options for dogs. Thankfully, Frisco has created this soft toy with safety in mind. It has a minimal amount of inner plush material, meaning less worrying about when it eventually breaks down. And the inner rope design means it is stronger and can take more tugging without breaking. The figure eight-shaped rope makes this an ideal toy for those who love to play with other dogs and their human family.
A built-in squeaker adds an extra touch of excitement for those who cannot resist a squeaky toy. The outer material is ultra-soft, which encourages your pup to play with it more. And also cuddle it too. Looking at the reviews, many dog owners said their pups were never without this toy, which offered them great comfort.
We love that this toy is the best option for those tenacious Bostons who love plush toys but need something a little bit sturdier than standard plush toys.
Bones & Chews Cotton Rope
- Chew and tug toy combination.
- Great for dogs that love to tug.
- Supports dental health.
- No artificial colors or preservatives.
- No chemical use.
- Made in the United States.
- Recommended only for supervised play.
Here we have another versatile dog toy that combines several play-type preferences. This is primarily a rope toy that is fantastic for interactive play between other four-legged friends and their favorite humans. But it also keeps him stimulated for those times when solo play is in order. There is a beef bone at each end of the rope that he can chew until his heart’s content. It can also be tossed for him to chase, with the rope length giving you extra swing.
The bones are natural and roasted to maintain moisture, meaning that they are safe and minimize splintering. Both the bones and the rope fibers massage gums and help break down plaque on his teeth. The rope is made from a blend of cotton and polyester, making it durable and tough. Each rope ships in a variety of colors for added surprise, although that’s more for your benefit than Fido’s.
We love that this toy combines a durable rope with chewable ends, making it ideal for interactive tug of war fun and solo chew time.
ZippyPaws Burrow Squeaky Hide & Seek
- Durable plush toy.
- Perfect for small and medium breed dogs.
- Hide-and-seek puzzle toy.
- Squirrels squeak.
- Machine washable.
- Keeps dogs entertained for hours.
- Great for inquisitive breeds.
This pick is great for the curious Boston who loves to play hide and seek, or should we say, squeak. This toy consists of a hollow tree trunk that hides three chipmunks. Show him how to extract the chipmunks, and he’ll be away in no time. Each chipmunk is soft and squeaky, which adds an element of reward when your dog extracts them from the tree trunk. The chipmunks are soft, making them fantastic cuddle buddies too.
You can also hide the chipmunks around the home and teach him to sniff them out for a different type of play. This toy is machine washable, making it easy for you to clean it and keep it odor-free. Reviews show that hiding a few yummy treats inside adds another layer of excitement, And you can be sure that it keeps him entertained for hours. You can order more chipmunks if your pup cannot get enough of them.
We love that this toy keeps your dog entertained for hours on end, thanks to the variety of sounds, textures, and shapes of the hollow log and multiple chipmunks.
West Paw Treat Dispensing Dog Chew Toy
- Interactive toy keeps your pup busy.
- Treat dispensing toy.
- Durable rubber construction.
- Environmentally friendly design.
- Extends the life of treats.
- Great for mental stimulation.
- Made in the United States.
Here we have another treat dispensing pick, but this is our favorite rubber toy pick. Bostons go crazy for food, and combining toys and treats means extended fun. Place a dental stick of your choice inside, and it grips the chew to make him work harder for it. Increased mental stimulation and more gum massaging for better dental health. The cut-out design means that his tongue can taste the treat, encouraging him to keep going.
The rubber is tough, making it ideal for tough chewers. And it is great for anxious pups and keeps them out of trouble and away from inappropriate chew targets such as your sofa. The twist design is great for two reasons: it is easier to pick up and it erratically bounces when thrown, making an exciting fetch toy. Because it is brightly colored, it can be seen easily outdoors in the grass. It comes with a limited lifetime warranty, which demonstrates its quality.
We love that this toy is satisfying to chew, thanks to the tough rubber. Plus, it can hold a yummy treat and double up as a toy to toss and fetch.
Chuckit! Flying Squirrel
- Made of durable material for repeated use.
- Glowing sections to allow for night play.
- Can be used in the water.
- Aerodynamic design is perfect for longer fetches.
- Variety of different highly visible colors.
- Raised sides, making it easy to grab.
- Easy and fun to throw.
Chuckit! has created this toy with the energetic pooch to ensure that you get the most out of his outdoor exercise. You chuck it like a frisbee, and it flies like one too. But this design with the four raised feet makes it easier for the flat-faced Boston. The four feet also glow in the dark when exposed to a light source before exercise, meaning it can be played with at night or in low visibility environments.
It is made from multi-layers of polyester, making it more durable and easier to grab. It is soft, too, making it much more fun to play with. Another benefit of this toy is that it floats on water. So if your dog loves to get his paws wet, this could be a fantastic option for him. This might be the only squirrel in the world that does not mind being chased.
We love that this toy is fantastic for Bostons who love to chase after everything in sight. This flying squirrel makes exercise in the park so much more fun.
Frequently Asked Questions
When it comes to getting the right dog toy for your Boston Terrier, it’s important to get it just right. So if you’ve still got a few more questions, you’re not alone in this.
What types of toys are best for my Boston Terrier?
There is no one answer for this, sorry. But it is easier to answer than most people think. Just like us humans, all dogs are different, as are their playing preferences. You need to work out how your dog likes to play and go from there. If he likes to chase things, a toy that you can throw is ideal. If he is a serial chewer, a chew toy of some kind is the best option for him. And if there are any materials that he avoids, stick to other materials. And remember, if you have a pup, invest in various play types to discover what he likes.
Is one toy enough for my Boston Terrier?
Have you tried to give a toddler just one toy to keep them entertained for years on end? Playing with the same toy over and over again will eventually lead to boredom. And who wants to play with a boring toy? Bostons are intelligent dogs, and their minds and bodies need stimulation with new and exciting things. Invest in toys that cater to his play-type preferences, and rotate them throughout the week to keep his interest piqued. Even if he only plays with chew toys, you can keep playtime varied by investing in different shapes and flavors.
Are some materials dangerous for my Boston Terrier?
Yes, there are materials out there that are unsafe and toxic to your Boston Terrier. And even worse than that, some brands use them to make dog toys because they are cheap to use. As mom and dad, it is your job to ensure that you do not hand a toxic toy to your pup. Take a look at the materials dangerous to dogs, and be sure to avoid them at all costs. Remember that materials such as 100% natural rubber, thermoplastic elastomer, rope, cotton, nylon, and polyester are safe for your dog. And remember that when safe materials break down, they also become dangerous. So you need to dispose of them at the first sign of deterioration.
Final Thoughts
Dog toys are not a luxury but a necessity for everyday life satisfaction. Not only do they keep your dog entertained and healthy, but they also keep him mentally stimulated and out of trouble. Depending on the toy, it will also provide an interactive activity for the two of you to bond or encourage solo playtime.
We have taken all of the hard work out of your decision; his new favorite toy, or toys, are just one click away. By choosing from our toy recommendations, you can be sure you are making the best decision for your Boston Terrier. Not only will your wallet be relieved by the value for money, but you’ll also see the biggest smile on your American Gentleman’s (or Gentle Lady’s) face.
