hank goodness for pets. They aren’t just silly and cute and perfect. They also provide all kinds of health benefits as companions. That’s why we have to take extra good care of them and why they deserve only the best toys.
Keep reading to learn about the impact of unsustainable dog toys and why switching to more sustainable pet toys is kinder to your pup and the planet. We also have 17 incredible eco-friendly dog toy recommendations from brands that aren’t compromising on the fun or the sustainability factor.
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What Is the Impact of Unsustainable Dog Toys on The Environment?
As plastic continues to wash up on beaches and parts of the Amazon rainforest are cut down to build a highway, at least we have cute, furry friends to distract us. Playing fetch or watching your old dog become a puppy again with a new toy can make the global plastic pollution crisis seem blissfully far away.
But it’s never as far as we think. It’s in your living room as your dog rips a toy to shreds, shedding plastic and possibly ingesting some of it in the process. It’s in your trash as you throw out another plastic ball wrecked from just one afternoon at the park. It’s impacting your home and your beloved pets as much as it is our planet.
Every year, around 634 million dog toys end up in US landfills. The vast majority of those have been made from virgin plastic which means the toys aren’t just causing pollution issues when they’re thrown out but adding to sustainability issues during manufacturing as well.
Even a simple tennis ball can have environmental consequences. Most aren’t biodegradable, and as they get lost in parks and forests, they can be mistaken by wild animals for food and harm them if ingested. Tennis balls also shed over time and add synthetic particles to soils and waterways, disrupting the health of natural ecosystems. It’s why paying attention to something as small as the sustainability of a ball for your dog matters more than most realize.
Criteria For Dog Toys That Are Considered Eco-Friendly
If most dog toys aren’t that great for the planet, how do you figure out which ones are? Let’s break it down:
How and Who They’re Made By
Manufacturing processes are a big part of what makes some dog toys more eco-friendly than others. Mass market productions that don’t disclose how or where their products are made can get away with ethically shady practices that exploit people and the environment. Instead, it’s worth looking out for toys and brands that:
- Have ethical certifications such as Fair Trade.
- Operate locally – this cuts down the carbon footprint of any transport and often means more ethical labor practices too.
- Involve small-batch production or are even made to order as this reduces waste created during production.
- Get transparent about their manufacturing and are happy to provide information on the factories and policies involved to ensure safe working conditions.
- Try to apply sustainability measures to their factories, such as reducing water and power usage, or only using clean energy.
- Use recycling initiatives to limit how much virgin plastic or materials are used and in doing so, help reduce pollution.
Better Materials for Your Dog and The Planet
Plastic doesn’t just clog up our oceans and cause havoc for ecosystems, it’s also bad for our furry friends’ health. There’s evidence to show that BPA and phthalates, both common materials in many toys, are endocrine disruptors that negatively impact dogs’ hormonal health and can lead to the development of disease.
Phthalates, an environmental contaminant, are considered bad enough for human health that they’ve been banned for use in kids’ toys. It’s distressing then that many brands are still selling dog toys that contain this chemical.
Here’s what to look for if you want sustainable dog toys made from materials that are better for them and our ecosystems:
- Natural, biodegradable materials that can be chewed by your dog or broken down in the environment without exposing either to harmful chemicals. Natural rubber is one of the best materials as it doesn’t splinter and is very durable.
- One step up from the above is organic materials, as these tend to involve less water and pesticide usage.
- BPA and phthalate-free materials are a must for anyone wanting non-toxic dog toys. These are two of the most common harmful ingredients in traditional options.
- It’s best if toys use natural and AZO-free dyes that won’t harm your furry friends or the planet.
- Part of the reason so many toys are adding to landfill issues is that they get chewed up too easily. Try to pick durable toys made from strong materials that can withstand decent play time before they have to be retired.
- Recyclable dog toys are a huge win as they at least won’t add to waste issues.
Extra Sustainability Initiatives
As you’ll see in the next section, many eco-friendly dog toy brands are enacting extra sustainability measures to reduce their carbon footprint and improve their impact. This often looks like:
- Carbon negative shipping.
- Internal recycling initiatives where you can send in used dog toys.
- Donating to animal welfare causes.
Every little bit helps!
17 Great Eco-Friendly Dog Toys for Your Furry Child
Be warned: some of the items on this list might be even cuter than our actual fur babies (don’t tell them). We haven’t just included the toys that look good, though. Every sustainable pet toy on this list is made to keep your pups safe and entertained. They’re also all made using at least one kind of sustainable material or feature and are generally far better for dog health than conventional toys. Let’s play:
1. Amazing Pet Products
This brand makes simple, colorful toys that are sure to keep your furry friends engaged for hours.
The Toy: 2 Knot Rope Dog Toy
Why We Love It: Rope toys like this are great for playing Tug of War or fetch with your dog and we love that this one is made of 100% cotton. That means no plastic, and it’s biodegradable so if it gets lost at the bottom of the garden, it’s not compromising the ecosystem.
2. Company of Animals
Company of Animals is a member of the Pet Sustainability Coalition, which means that they’ve committed to building sustainability measures into everything they do. Between investing more in renewable energy and getting transparent about their employment practices, it’s great to see a pet brand doing more to reduce its impact.
The Toy: Boomer Ball
Why We Love It: If you’re looking for a durable dog toy that won’t end up in the trash after one game of fetch, then the Boomer Ball is for you (and your furry friends). These balls are seriously tough and can withstand non-stop play without popping or tearing.
3. Fluff & Tuff
The best part about this dog toy brand is that their plush toys are all made to meet the same standards as kid’s toys in the US. That means testing for lead and phthalates, and double scanning to make sure there aren’t any foreign objects or metal lurking inside the toys.
The Toy: Katie Caterpillar
Why We Love It: This is another super durable dog toy designed to keep pups entertained for ages. No plush toy is indestructible, but the Tuffweb liner, double-stitched seams, and high-quality fabric make this cute caterpillar as long-lasting as it gets. We also love that the filler is non-toxic and that the toy is machine washable, so you won’t be tempted to throw it out if it gets stinky.
4. Frogg
Ethical pet dog toys are what Frogg is all about. All their toys are made with sustainable rubber that’s much tougher and better for the environment than synthetic versions. The brand’s packing is also completely FSC-certified.
The Toy: Blobby Ball
Why We Love It: Besides the fact that it’s plastic-free and made from natural rubber, the thing to note about this ball is that it’ll keep even the smartest pups engaged. All you have to do is fill it with wet paste or food and then sit back as your pet is forced to sniff, lick, and fully investigate to get their treat. It’s as entertaining for them as it is for you.
5. Huggle Hounds
This is another brand making durable dog toys, but we have to say, the whimsy on a huggle hound product is unlike anything you’ll see elsewhere. The designs are unique, CE-certified to meet the highest environmental and safety regulations and come with a replacement guarantee if they’re not up to scratch.
The Toy: Bitsy Bunny Natural Rope Knottie
Why We Love It: We’ve never seen a natural dog toy this cute. Each non-toxic dog toy is hand-knotted with all-natural cotton, hemp, and suede, with eco-friendly coconut fiber stuffing. Customers are obsessed with how strong the toy is and how many different ways it can be tugged and chewed.
6. Jax & Bones
Jac & Bones’ biodegradable, eco-friendly pet toys aren’t just adorable. Some of their products include a 10% donation to rescue and animal welfare groups with each purchase.
The Toy: Norman The Alien Rope Dog Toy
Why We Love It: The fun green color on this alien rope toy comes courtesy of non-toxic vegetable dyes. The rope is also hand-knotted, completely natural, and designed to fray and act like doggie dental floss as it is chewed.
7. KONG
You’ve definitely seen this brand in your local pet store, but did you know that they make some of the best non-toxic, all-natural dog toys? All their products are made from natural rubber and designed to last through hours of play and bounce well for games of fetch.
The Toy: KONG Aqua
Why We Love It: This KONG is specifically made to go in the water. It floats, has a rope on it so that owners can grab the toy easily, and is brightly colored so you can always see it. We love how it balances practicality and play.
8. P.L.A.Y
All the toys at P.L.A.Y meet children’s toy standards for safety, which is great because these toys are so delightful that any kids around will probably be tempted to steal them from the dogs …
The Toy: Plush Toys
Why We Love It: Whether it’s the fluffy fried chicken leg or the 80’s classic boom box, each plush toy is made with AZO-free dyes, filled with 100% post-consumer certified-safe recycled plastic bottles, and ready to throw in the washing machine if need be. The sustainable dog toys have also gotten rave reviews for being “indestructible” and great for Tug-of-War battles as a result.
9. RUFFWear
Based in Bend, Oregon, RUFFWear’s eco-friendly dog toys are often inspired by the company’s natural surroundings which gives the products a unique look.
The Toy: Gnawt-a-Stick
Why We Love It: As one customer noted, chewing on actual sticks isn’t great for dogs with delicate teeth. The “gnawt-a-stick” makes for a great replacement thanks to its soft, natural rubber that is durable but won’t put too much pressure on doggie dentals.
10. Beco Pets
Beco Pets is one of the only certified B. Corp and climate-neutral pet brands. They take sustainable dog toys seriously from both an aesthetic perspective (the designs are notably chic) and in terms of impact. They donate to rewilding causes so that your dogs get even more access to green spaces.
The Toy: Boredom Buster
Why We Love It: This is no simple enrichment toy. There are hidden shelves in this sneaky device that ensure a much slower dispersion of treats than most options. It can keep dogs busy for about 45 minutes and thanks to durable, natural rubber, it can withstand lots of chewing and stimulation.
11. Awoo Pets
Organic dog toys are few and far between, but Awoo Pets is trying to change that with their plastic-free pet toys that are as beautiful as they are enriching.
The Toy: Link Felt Tug A War Toy
Why We Love It: This tug toy is made from organic sheep’s wool by a Nepalese female artisan. The natural fibers are fully digestible and safe for your dog, while also being perfect for some gentle teeth cleaning during chewing. If you have a young pup that’s destroying everything in sight, take a tip from previous customers of this product and add it to your list. It’s difficult to destroy, but even if the pup does rip it apart, you know they’re not being exposed to harmful chemicals.
12. Better Bone
Did you know a dog bone could be featured in Vogue? We certainly didn’t. Better Bone’s eco-friendly dog toys are a pretty big deal. As are their sustainability efforts. The brand has various waste reduction strategies, operates a fair-trade supply chain, and is a member of the 1% For The Planet initiative.
The Toy: Classic Natural Chew Bone
Why We Love It: The plastic-free hard chew toy is made from natural, food-grade ingredients that promote dental hygiene and can withstand lots of heavy chewing. It’s also hypoallergenic and comes in a softer version for older hounds.
13. HEVEA
Where the above is for heavy chewers, Hevea is a female-founded brand that specializes in softer toys that can soothe sore or young gums. All the brand’s non-toxic dog toys are free of BPA, phthalates, and other nasty ingredients.
The Toy: Natural Rubber Chew Toy
Why We Love It: First off, a sustainable dog toy that looks like an adorable little pup is genius. Second, these all-natural rubber toys are made with food-grade pigments, so you know their good looks won’t cost your dog’s health. The toy also has varied textures which makes it feel particularly good on tender gums.
14. Boba & Vespa (The Kind Pet)
Boba and Vespa, now known as The Kind Pet is all about balancing happy pets with a happier planet. The female-founded company has made it a priority to reduce waste wherever possible and keep harmful materials far away from your dogs. They’re also fully transparent on their sourcing, manufacturing, and sustainability standards.
The Toy: Organic Cotton Rope Dog Toy
Why We Love It: Made in the USA, this organic cotton rope dog toy is as much for play as it is for flossing. The toy is designed to stimulate gums without exposing your pup to any nasty chemicals. Customers love how well it holds up and the varied sizes it comes in.
15. Honest Pet Products
Honest Pet Products started with a woman, three dogs, and a single drink coaster that those dogs insisted on playing with. It inspired the brand’s initial eco-fetcher toy and has spiraled into a company that’s always working to put doggy needs and sustainability principles first.
The Toy: Eco Quacker - Hemp toy
Why We Love It: This squeaker toy designed to look like a feathered friend is meant to delight duck-loving dogs everywhere. It’s made from 100% natural hemp canvas which is durable and has anti-microbial and antibacterial properties. The design on it is printed using eco-friendly ink and the inside layer is made from sustainable wool, completing this fully biodegradable dog toy that is as delightful as it is sustainable.
16. Friendsheep
This brand is fully committed to fair trade practices that support the communities they work with and the environment. They’re partnered with 1% For The Planet and are proving that adorable, fun toys don’t need to cost the earth or our ethics.
The Toy: Ronnie The Lion - woolen ball
Why We Love It: One customer described on the brand’s site how this toy effectively replaced her dog’s obsession with dryer balls. Another noted how much better it lasts than other chew toys. This is no cowardly lion toy. It’s hand-felted from 100% cruelty-free New Zealand wool, colored with azo-free eco-friendly dyes, and shaped to be thrown around or chewed in peace.
17. Only Natural Pet
Natural and durable are the two big qualities that Only Natural Pet prioritizes. The Colorado-based pet brand is a one-stop shop for eco-friendly toys from their own label, as well as various other businesses making more sustainable pet items.
The Toy: Eco-Friendly Regenerated Cotton Carrot Dog Toy
Why We Love It: A customer with a new puppy noted how well this toy works for teething as it doesn’t come apart easily, no matter how much chomping it’s forced to survive. The plastic-free dog toy uses AZO-free dyes and is made from recycled cotton, which uses less water and CO2 than regular cotton.
Conclusion
We don’t deserve dogs. But we can at least try to be worthy of them by giving them the best lives and toys possible. Eco-friendly dog toys aren’t just a matter of doing right by the planet, they’re often the best option for pet health as well. Next time your furry friend needs something to bounce after in the park or chew on to ease sensitive gums, consider the eco-friendly options at the pet store.
You won’t lose out on any of the fun. If anything, these toys often add more to our dog’s lives and experiences. What’s better than that?
