The German Shorthaired Pointer (GSP) is a much more popular dog than you might think. He ranks in the top 10 most popular breeds in America. So that got us thinking that there are probably many moms and dads out there who need a helping hand choosing the best dog toys for their German Shorthaired Pointer.
But do not worry, we have taken all of the hard work out of it. We’ll walk you through all the different considerations needed before purchasing a toy.
And using all of that information, we have combed the market to find the best dog toys. With something for every dog and wallet, you’re bound to find a toy your GSP will fall completely head over paw in love with.
At A Glance: Our Favorite German Shorthaired Pointer Dog Toys
Best For Fetch
Chuckit! Ball Launcher
Best Plush
Outward Hound Squirrels
Best For Chewers
Dogwood Chew Toy
Note: Clicking the above links take you to Chewy.com, where you can get additional product information and customer reviews. If you make a purchase, we earn a commission at no additional cost to you.
Buyer’s Guide
This is the part where we’ll run you through everything you need to think about before buying just any ol’ dog toy. Because rushing in and buying whatever is available is the biggest mistake that dog parents make. You usually end up with Fido turning his nose up and you feeling frustrated that you’ve wasted more money. But after reading this guide, there’s a very good chance it’ll never happen to you again.
Type Of Play
To find the perfect German Shorthaired Pointer dog toy, you should think about the type of play your pooch likes.
Is he a fetcher? Find a toy you can launch for him to retrieve. Or maybe he likes to use his clever brain to extract yummy treats from a puzzle? A treat-dispensing toy is a way to go. If he’s a tug-of-war pro, a rope toy does. And if chewing is one of his favorite pastimes, nothing pleases him more than a chew toy. It’s simple when you think about it. Many toys roll a few play types into one.
Perhaps you’re lucky enough to be welcoming a GSP into your life. In this case, you’ll want to invest in a few different toys offering a variety of play types. This way, you can have lots of fun discovering just what your pup likes. Rubber chew toys are a big hit with pups because they offer pain relief during the teething stage, as well as comfort. And you are showing him there are finer things in life than chewing up mom and dad’s furniture.
Durability
Durable toys are the best and really the only option. Sure, you can buy a toy off the shelf in the dollar store. But you can bet it won’t last longer than five minutes. To stand up against your dog’s teeth, it needs to be long-lasting and robust. By spending just a little bit more than you normally would, you can be sure to find a better-value toy and impress Fido with it. We have balanced cost and quality to achieve the best value for money, as shown in our recommendations below.
The durability of a toy is also directly related to how much of a chewer your GSP is. If he’s a soft chewer who mouths his toys gently, a less durable toy lasts much longer for him than it would a heavy chewer. For heavier chewers, tough toys with extreme labels are needed. For the toughest toys, you’ll need to spend a little more, but it’ll make your money go much further for sure.
Safety
Safety is seriously important for your pup. Sadly, some dog toys out there are dangerous for Fido and have caused serious problems. Brands looking to make a quick buck use cheap materials unsuitable for your pooch. All so they can make a profit with no care for your dog’s health. To avoid poor quality and dangerous toys, look for household pet brand names and good reviews.
Do not assume that a dog toy is safe just because it is available for you to buy. Read the description and reviews, and always look at the pictures. Identify what the materials are, and if they aren’t in the list above, do some research on them. The rubber should be 100% natural, and plastic needs to be BPA-free. Always supervise your dog during play, and if the toy starts to break down, replace it immediately.
Size
German Shorthaired Pointers are large dog breeds, but that doesn’t always mean they need a large toy. All toys come in different sizes, so again, it’s important to read the description. Some brands suggest a toy based on the breed, and some on weight. Always measure your pooch according to the specific instructions.
The most important thing you need to do is make sure the toy isn’t so small that he can swallow it whole. Toys become a choking hazard if they are too small, so they can be fatal. Equally, if it’s too big, he might not want to play with it. Thankfully, because he is a large dog, this shouldn’t be an issue. Size doesn’t always matter, but it does when it comes to his safety.
Material
Durability also depends on the type of material that the toy is made from. GSPs are very energetic dogs who play for hours and hours on end. They might not be the most powerful of chewers. But the amount of time they spend playing means the toy you choose for him needs to be tough. Below we have listed some of the most commonly used dog toy materials.
Rubber
Rubber is a great material for dog toys because it is flexible and fun to play with while being tough. Rubber is the best choice for tough chewers because it lasts much longer than other materials. It is great for teething puppies, and it can be washed easily. Just make sure it is seam-free and smooth for his safety.
Rope
Rope is the next best material for toughness. Ropes are great for launching and playing tug of war with. Whether he likes interactive play or solo chew time, it’s a great all-rounder. The rope fibers are great for dental hygiene and flossing his teeth while playing. Function and fun rolled into one.
Nylon
Nylon comes in two forms. The first is in a hard plastic-bone type material. Used in chew toys, it lasts longer than bones and sticks, and it is safer. It can be ridged and shaped for dental hygiene and flavored for his taste buds. It also comes in a softer form that is used in cuddly toys. Although this isn’t for tough chewers, it is more durable than polyester.
Polyester And Plush
Polyester and plush are the least durable options for dog toys. And they are only suited to gentle chewers who aren’t interested in tearing or playing rough. If he likes to fetch in the home, plays hide and seek for nose work, or cuddle a small buddy, these materials are okay. When the polyester splits, the plush material inside becomes a choking hazard, along with any squeakers.
Best Dog Toys For German Shorthaired Pointer
You should now have a clearer picture in your mind about what type of toys to invest in. We have found six of the best dog toys for German Shorthaired Pointers. Read each review because not all toys are what they first seem. And you might discover something new that your GSP will love. Each toy is safe, highly rated, great value for money, and most of all, fun.
Petstages Dogwood Stick
- Combines real wood with synthetic material.
- Natural wood smell.
- Non-toxic ingredients.
- Safer than sticks (no splintering).
- Floats in water.
- Great for playing fetch.
- Made in the United States.
Petstages have created this toy for those dogs who love to chew sticks. But this solid toy is much safer and longer-lasting. And it’s less messy too, which is great if he is forever bringing sticks home making a real mess. Chewing is a natural behavior for dogs, and this toy satisfies their natural instincts. There is no excuse for chewing up your shoelaces anymore. It can be used as a toy to chuck, but maybe not inside on your best hard flooring.
The stick is made with real wood and polypropylene, which is a durable, non-toxic material. Because it is made with real wood, it smells like real wood, too, keeping Fido enticed. This toy is described as a chew toy for tough chewers. So you can be sure it keeps him busy for hours without splintering immediately as real sticks do. This toy also floats, so it’s great for lake fun and distraction in the bathtub.
We love that this toy is the best pick for those GSPs who are forever chewing sticks in their favorite woodlands and bringing them home. It even tastes like wood too.
Chuckit! Classic Launcher
- Perfect for fetching.
- Made of lightweight, flexible plastic.
- Makes throwing the ball long distances easier.
- Hands-free pickup.
- Fits Chuckit! brand balls and tennis balls (if you buy the right size for them).
- Made in the United States.
Chuckit! is known for its launcher toys, and this is the best choice for the German Shorthaired Pointer. These guys love to run, and they cover a lot of distance in a short space of time. And once you get this toy out, you’ll be playing with it for hours. The launcher allows you to throw the ball up to three times further than you could without it. Great for park fun, but not ideal for apartments. It is also a great toy for elderly dog owners or those with mobility restrictions because it requires little effort on your part.
This launcher is designed for your comfort, thanks to the ultra rubber grip. Its ergonomic design means your hand shouldn’t tire before Fido does. It also means you no longer have to pick up slobbery balls for a clean throwing session. The ball itself is a standard tennis-ball-like design, and it bounces on landing for added excitement. If you lose the ball, simply order some more without having to buy another launcher.
We love that this toy is the best option for GSPs who love to run and fetch for hours. The launcher allows the ball to go much further than standard balls.
Outward Hound Squirrel Dog Toy
- Interactive toy for intelligent dogs.
- Multiple sizes for medium to bigger dogs.
- Fun hide-and-seek game.
- Squirrels squeak.
- Durable soft toys.
- Replacement squirrels available for order.
- Great for training.
German Shorthaired Pointers are enthusiastic gun dogs who love to catch small game. This means this toy can drive him wild. With not one, not two, but six squirrels, there’s lots of fun to be had with this option. The aim of the game is to extract the squirrels out of the hollow tree trunk. Why not hide some treats in there for extra excitement? It is more challenging than it looks.
The squirrels can also be hidden around the home for sniffing out games or as cuddle buddies if your pooch is a big softie. This is not the toy for heavy chewers or those who like to rip plush toys to shreds. But for everyone else, this toy challenges his mind with an array of shapes, sounds, and textures. If he wears them out, you can get more squirrels on order.
We love that this toy is ideal for GSPs who love softer toys that squeak. And with six squeaky squirrels, you can be sure he’ll love this toy.
Trixie Activity Box Strategy Game
- Interactive dog toy for intelligent dogs.
- Puzzle games challenge cognitive function.
- Several different opening features.
- Stimulates different learning techniques.
- Includes lids, knobs, drawers, and ropes.
- May not be suited for rougher dogs.
- Non-slip rubber feet.
This toy is only for smart German Shorthaired Pointers, but to be fair, that is most of them. There are four compartments that hold the treats. And all Fido has to do is work out how to open them. Each box opens in a different way, which keeps him stimulated. With ropes, knobs, lids, drawers, and flaps, he can not be able to nudge them open without a little bit of brainwork first.
You can remove the boxes, using only one at a time or more. This also means you can reorder them, so he has to work them out each time. This toy is made out of plastic, and it is dishwasher-safe for easy cleaning. It has four anti-slip rubber feet, and it comes with a booklet with tips on keeping him interested time after time. Once your Shorthair has conquered this toy, there are more complex puzzles in the range. But this is the best one to start with, for sure.
We love that this toy is the best option for the clever canines out there who love to challenge their brain for treats.
KONG Rubber Tire
- Can withstand intense jaw pressure.
- Can be filled with treats.
- Great for tug-of-war, fetch, and chewing.
- All-natural rubber formula.
- Irregular bounce pattern.
- Thick outer walls resist breakdown.
- FDA-compliant, and BPA-free.
A well-known Kong brand makes this toy. This particular toy is from their power range, and it is shaped like a tire. It has uniquely shaped walls and a thick outer tread, which together make a super durable toy. The sidewalls are satisfying to chew because they are flexible and rebound. And they also bounce when thrown, also making it a fun fetch toy.
The natural rubber is strong enough to stand up to the challenge of tough chewers. You can also place treats into the inner ring, making it challenging but worthy of spending time getting them out. Most treats fit into the inner ring, or pastes and squeezy treats are also a great option. This toy keeps tough chewers stimulated for hours, and it reduces anxiety in anxious dogs. It can be washed easily, which is also great for you.
We love that this toy is the best option for power chewers known for destroying standard toys in minutes flat.
Bones & Chews Cotton Rope
- Chew and tug toy combination.
- Great for dogs that love to tug.
- Supports dental health.
- No artificial colors, preservatives, or chemicals.
- Made in the United States.
- Recommended only for supervised play.
This toy has multiple uses and is a great toy for most dogs. First and foremost, it is a rope toy that is great for tug of war games. It is also a chew toy, thanks to the two bones placed at either end of the rope. It can also be tossed for fetching fun and hidden around the house for nose work. It can be a toy for solo stimulation or interactive play with his favorite humans or other dogs. The options are endless.
The rope is made from cotton, which is safe and durable. The fibers act as a flossing tool, and the bones are also great for his dental hygiene. The bones are real beef bones, roasted to maintain moisture to minimize splintering. The rope has several knots so both doggy and human alike can get a good grip on the toy. Plus, providing distance for safety. This toy is dispatched in different colors for a surprise.
We love that this toy is the best option for those GSPs who enjoy playing tug of war with rope toys.
Frequently Asked Questions
If you’re still stuck on which toy to get, take a look at the most commonly asked questions listed below. As you can see, there is a bit more to find the right toy than just buying it. Let’s take a closer look. If your question isn’t listed below, be sure to ask us in the comment box at the end of the guide.
What types of toys are best for my German Shorthaired Pointer?
All dogs are different, and that includes the GSP. This means there is no best type of toy, only the ones that your unique pooch plays with. After all, if you buy him a ball toy and he has never shown interest in a ball in his life, it’s going to sit lonely in the toy bucket. Think about how your Shorthaired likes to play, and this narrows your search down.
Are there any completely 100% indestructible dog toys available?
No. If there was a truly indestructible dog toy, it’d be the bestselling one in the world. And if the toy you buy lasts forever, it’s because your pooch isn’t interested in it. So, expect that the toy you buy cannot last forever, but this is a good thing. If it keeps Fido stimulated and out of trouble for a while, be that a month or two or more, it’s done what it’s supposed to do. When it starts to break down, you’ll need to replace it with a new one. Otherwise, it’ll become a choking hazard.
Is one toy enough for my German Shorthaired Pointer?
No. After a while, your pup might become bored with just the one toy, and he’ll look for other things to keep himself occupied with. And bored dogs are destructive ones. So, invest in a few toys that you can rotate throughout the week to keep him entertained and stimulated. Multiple toys are a necessity if you want him to be healthy and happy.
Are some materials dangerous for my German Shorthaired Pointer?
Unfortunately, some materials are dangerous for dogs. And even worse, some brands are looking to make a quick buck, using low-quality materials to make their dog toys cheaper. So, it’s up to you to ensure the dog toy you are about to invest in is safe for Fido. Always read the product description before buying it. You can rest assured that all of the toys recommended in this guide are safe for your pooch.
Final Thoughts
The German Shorthaired Pointer is an energetic canine who has lots of working energy. His high prey drive means he’s likely to love running and chasing things, as well as squeaky toys that mimic prey. But not all GSPs are the same, and some might prefer tug of war, frisbee, or other games. But whatever his preference, he needs mental stimulation to stay happy.
With the toys listed above, you can be sure that they fit the bill. Choose the one you think he will love best or a few so you can rotate them to maintain his interest. Not only will it make him super happy, but it also keeps him out of trouble and away from your sneaker collection. After all, your GSP deserve the best. And what better way to show him you love him than spoiling him with toys?
