Do Dogs Pick a Favourite Toy?
If you’ve lived with a dog for more than five minutes, you’ve probably seen it: the one toy they keep going back to. It might be chewed beyond recognition, missing a leg (or a face), or permanently soggy—but your dog won’t let it go. So what’s the deal? Do dogs actually choose a favourite toy?
The short answer? Yep. And there’s a pretty adorable reason why.
Dogs Have Preferences—Just Like We Do
Not all dogs are the same. Some are destroyers, some are cuddlers. Some want to chase things all day; others are content to nap with something soft between their paws. So it makes sense that their taste in toys is just as personal.
Your dog’s favourite might be a squeaky alien, a tennis ball, or a floppy plush animal they treat like their baby. Whatever it is, it’s not random. There’s something about that toy—whether it’s the feel, the sound, or a memory—that makes it the one.
Why They Get Attached
1. It Feels Good
Some toys just feel right in your dog’s mouth. Soft toys can mimic the feel of prey (thanks to their wild ancestors), while rubbery textures are great for chewing. Dogs often choose toys that are satisfying to bite, carry, or cuddle.
2. It Makes a Great Noise
A high-pitched squeak can drive us up the wall, but for dogs, it’s super satisfying. Some pups love the cause-and-effect of the sound—others are simply obsessed with it.
3. It Fits Their Play Style
If your dog loves to chase, they’ll go for toys that bounce or fly. If they’re into tug-of-war, ropes or sturdy chew toys will win out. And if your dog is the nurturing type? They might choose a plush toy to carry around like a baby.
4. It’s Tied to Comfort or Routine
Some toys become favourites because they’re familiar. Maybe it was their first toy as a puppy, or the one they always play with after dinner. Over time, it turns into something more than just a toy—it’s a source of comfort.
Can a Favourite Toy Change?
Absolutely. Dogs go through phases, just like we do. A teething pup might love something to gnaw on, while an older dog might prefer a softer toy to snuggle with. Still, some dogs stick with the same favourite for years—and honestly, it’s kind of heart-melting.
When Attachment Becomes a Problem
For most dogs, having a favourite toy is totally normal. But if your dog becomes overly possessive or growls when someone comes near their toy, that might be something to keep an eye on. A little training (or guidance from a trainer) can help if it turns into guarding behavior.
Also, check their favourite toy regularly. If it’s falling apart or becoming a choking hazard, it might be time to quietly retire it and introduce something new.
How to Help Your Dog Find “The One”
At Planet Pup, we design toys that connect with different dog personalities—from high-energy squeakers to cuddle-worthy plush toys with just the right feel. Our Whisper Squad collection even includes toys with ultrasonic squeakers only dogs can hear (seriously—your ears get a break, theirs don’t).
Let your dog explore a variety of shapes, sounds, and textures. Sometimes it takes a bit of trial and error, but once they find the toy they bond with… you’ll know.
Final Thoughts...
Yes—dogs really do pick a favourite toy. And while it might seem like a small thing, it actually says a lot about who they are and what makes them feel safe, excited, or loved.
So if your pup brings you the same chewed-up alien every night, take it as a compliment. That toy is part of their world—and so are you.
Ready to help your dog find their new favourite? Check out the Whisper Squad and see who they connect with.
You never know which quirky little character might be their perfect match.