Soft vs. Tough Plush Dog Toys: Which One Is Right for Your Pup?

If there’s one thing that is pretty much universally true of dogs, it is that they love to play. Whether they’re running around chasing their furry pals, tugging a rope with you on the other end, or hanging out with that one plush pig they just can’t seem to get enough of, dogs love to have fun, and you know what? It’s good for them. Not only are toys a lot of fun for pups, young and not so young, but they are also useful for keeping their minds stimulated, their teeth clean, and their behavior in check. So, if you have a dog, you should have lots of dog toys too.

Okay, but with so many dog toys to choose from, you are probably wondering which ones are best for your pampered pooch, right? Well, that depends. Like humans, dogs are all different and they have different preferences. That being said, if you know your dog and you know his or her breed, it can be a lot easier to narrow it down and avoid the decapitated giraffe plushie or the squeaky ball they are more scared of than willing to play with, and of course, if you keep reading, we’ll help you work out whether a soft or tough toy might be more appropriate for your pup.

What Are Plush Toys for Dogs, Anyway?

Plush toys are typically made with soft outer fabrics, think fleece, velour, or faux fur, and often include stuffing, squeakers, or crinkly inserts. Their purpose can range from cuddling and comfort to tossing and interactive play. The beauty of plush toys is that they mimic prey - small, soft, and squeaky - making them instantly appealing to a dog’s natural instincts.

But here’s the twist: while all plush toys might look similar on the shelf, how they hold up during play varies wildly.

Soft Plush Dog Toys: Made for Cuddlers, Nurturers & Nap Buddies

Best for:

• Small breeds
  

• Puppies
  

• Seniors
  

• Gentle dogs who like to carry toys in their mouths or sleep with them
  

These toys are made with ultra-soft fabrics and minimal internal reinforcement. They’re often lightweight, easy to squeak, and irresistibly cozy. Many soft plush toys for dogs feature floppy limbs, smiling faces, and even baby-like features that tap into your dog’s nurturing instincts.

Benefits of soft toys:

• Comforting and great for anxiety relief
  

• Lightweight and easy to carry
  

• Safe for smaller or gentler mouths
  

• Ideal for crate time or bedtime
  

Things to watch for:

• Not chew-resistant
  

• Stuffing and squeakers can become hazards if swallowed
  

• May need frequent replacing for active chewers
  

Our Pick: Cuddle Buddy Plush Pig Dog Toy

Available on DoggieHush.com, this plush pig is ultra-soft and great for snuggling and gentle play. Its gentle texture makes it perfect for pups who like cuddle time more than chew time.

Tough Plush Dog Toys: Built for Rough Players & Serial Shredders

Best for:

• Medium to large breeds
  

• High-energy dogs
  

• Aggressive chewers
  

• Tug-of-war enthusiasts
  

Tough plush dog toys are like the bodybuilders of the toy world. They’re made with reinforced seams, layered fabrics, and durable linings that help them stand up to chewing, shaking, and energetic play. Some even use ballistic nylon or ripstop material under the plush surface for added durability.

Benefits of tough toys:

• Longer-lasting for aggressive players
  

• Still soft enough for squeaky fun
  

• Designed with safety in mind, many have hidden or protected squeakers
  

• Great for tug, fetch, and roughhousing
  

Things to watch for:

• Not 100% indestructible (no plush toy is)
  

• May be too firm or heavy for small dogs
  

• Still need supervision during playtime
  

Our Pick: Slappies® Beary Styles Durable Plush Toy

This stuffless plush toy features a TPR squeaker in the head and floppy arms that flap when shaken - great for dogs that love to toss and tug. The mesh-lined body stands up better to chewing.

How to Choose Between Soft and Tough Plush Toys

Let’s get real: your dog’s personality is the biggest factor in the plush toy decision. Think of it like this:

 

Still not sure? Here’s a quick quiz:

• Does your dog destroy stuffed toys within minutes? → Go tough
  

• Does your pup carry toys around like they’re precious cargo? → Go soft
  

• Do they fall asleep with a toy in their paws or mouth? → Definitely soft
  

• Do you find tufts of stuffing scattered like crime scene evidence? → You know the answer: tough
  

Combo Dogs? Try a Hybrid Approach

Some dogs defy categories. Maybe your dog is a snuggler by day and a destroyer by night. In that case, it’s smart to keep both types on hand and rotate them out depending on the vibe.

You could offer soft toys during calm, crate, or bedtime hours, and bring out the big guns (aka tough plush toys) during play sessions or when guests come over and your dog wants to show off their demolition skills.

Our Pick: Plush Bulldog Toy That Is Durable, Squeaky, Great for Nervous Dogs

This versatile toy strikes a perfect balance: it delivers soft plush comfort, a gentle squeaker for engagement, and durable reinforcement that holds up to moderate chewing. It’s ideal for dogs who want to cuddle and chew - an all‑in‑one toy that adapts to your pup’s mood.

Available now on DoggieHush.com, it’s the go-to for pups who aren’t purely cuddlers or purely chewers, but a little bit of both.

Safety First: Plush Toy Dos and Don’ts

✅ DO supervise your dog with new plush toys. You never know how quickly they’ll take to tearing it apart.

❌ DON’T let your dog play with a toy that’s ripped open. Squeakers, stuffing, or fabric can become choking hazards.

✅ DO check for reinforced stitching and no small pieces. Eyes and noses should be embroidered or securely fastened.

❌ DON’T assume “tough” means indestructible. Even the toughest plush dog toys have their limits, especially with determined chewers.

✅ DO rotate toys. Like humans, dogs get bored. Rotating their plush toys can increase longevity and engagement.

❌ DON’T buy undersized toys for big dogs. A toy that’s too small is more likely to be swallowed.

Benefits of Plush Toys (No Matter the Type)

Whether you go soft, tough, or a mix of both, plush toys provide plenty of physical and emotional benefits for your pup:

• Mental stimulation – Squeaking, chewing, and searching for hidden parts mimic foraging and hunting behavior.
  

• Comfort – Soft toys can offer security, especially for dogs with separation anxiety or nervous energy.
  

• Exercise – Plush toys that can be thrown, tugged, or shaken encourage movement and play.
  

• Bonding – Interactive plush play (tug, fetch, etc.) strengthens your bond and burns energy.
  

So yes, even if your living room sometimes looks like a cotton-stuffed war zone, plush toys are totally worth it.

Don’t Forget the Toy Personality Match

Want your dog to really fall in love with their new toy? Think about what they gravitate toward:

• Love squeaks? Look for plush toys with squeakers that are deep, high-pitched, or hidden inside.
  

• Like long limbs or tails? Pick toys with floppy arms and legs they can drag around.
  

• Obsessed with crinkles? Some plush toys add that satisfying crinkle paper inside for extra stimulation.
  

• Guard their “babies”? Go for soft, non-squeaky plush toys that won’t trigger destructive instincts.
  

At the end of the day, no one knows your dog better than you. So, you are best placed to work out which toys your dog is likely to love the most. Some pups treat plush toys for dogs like their most prized possessions, while others will go in for the kill and take the head off their new plush giraffe before you’ve even realized what’s happening. So, basically, you need to observe your dog’s behavior to see what kind of play style they have, and then you can choose between tough plush dog toys and a soft toy for dogs. But, be sure to also take into account their personality and size when making your choice, too.

Want to cuddle up with a sleepy pup at night? A soft plush toy will make the perfect pillow pal. Want to play tug, chase, and wrestle with a canine chaos machine? You’ll need one of our tough plush toys with reinforced stitching and attitude to match.

Whichever way you go, just know this: the right plush toy can become your dog’s best friend, and possibly their favorite thing in the world (after you, of course).

Ready to Find Your Pup’s New Favorite?

Ready to choose a new friend for your best friend? from SnugglePup Lamb to the indestructible (well, almost) ArmorPaws Tuff Monkey, we have tons of options for you to choose from, and now you know a bit more about dog toys, you’re sure to get it right and fill your pup with delight.

Shop doggiehush.com now and make playtime plush-tastic!