18 Best Dog Summer Toys

While your summer shopping list is probably already complete, as a pet parent, it might be missing some summer dog toys. With the temperatures climbing and the sun shining bright, your pup deserves toys that will keep them cool while still providing hours of fun. This is where summer dog toys come into play – whether your dog enjoys chewing, fetching, or even floating in the pool, there are plenty of options to sate your pooch this summer season.

Summer dog products should be fun, interactive, and safe for your pup to play with. While you have your own fun, it’s important to provide plenty of variety for your dog, too – luckily, there is no shortage of fun and unique summer dog products to keep them occupied. Ready to find out more about the best summer dog toys? Read on with us today for our top pick as well as our top 18 choices.

18 Best Summer Toys for Dogs

The summer brings long days soaking up the sun, hanging out by the pool, and walking along the beach, and your dog shouldn’t have to miss out on the fun! But, with summer comes harmful UV rays and rising temperatures. These things can be uncomfortable for both us pet parents and our furry friends, and potentially even dangerous. So, summer dog toys and summer dog products often feature ways to keep your pup cool in the heat. From floating pool toys to frozen chew toys, we’ve selected a comprehensive range of toys to help your pooch beat the heat this summer.

Our Top Pick: Pup Claw Dog Toys – Funny Cute Plush Dog Toys with Squeaker

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Pup Claw Dog Toys (Bark Cherry & Lickin’ Lime) are some of the most highly-rated summer dog toys on Amazon. With their novel designs and fun squeaks, Pup Claw’s summer dog toys are sure to provide your furry friend with hours of fun! Be sure to check out their other toys as well, for they offer a huge variety of novel and fun toys for any pup in need of new toys to play with! However, we do note that this toy does not offer any cooling properties in the heat. As such, it’s best to take this top pick alongside one of our other highly-rated summer dog toys.

Product Name	Best Feature	Material	Durability Scale (1-10)	Rating
Pup Claw Dog Toys	Squeaker	Plush	6	5
Chuckit! Flying Squirrel Dog Toy	Buoyant	Canvas	6	5
KONG Floating Fetch Toy	Highly visible	Rubber	10	5
SwimWays Paddle Paws	Foldable	Rubber	5	4.9
ChuckIt! Amphibious Bumper	Non-slip handle	Memory foam	4	4.8
QDAN Dog Toys Soccer Ball	Grab tabs	PU	5	4.7
Ruff Dawg Flying Fish Dog Toy	Four colors	Rubber	5	4.6
Peteast Splash Pad for Dogs	Water fountain	PVC	2	4.5
PetSafe Chilly Penguin	Stackable	Rubber	3	4.4
Frontpet Large Foldable Dog Pool	Foldable	PVC	3	4.3

1. Pup Claw Dog Toys – Funny Cute Plush Dog Toys with Squeaker

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Pup Claw Dog Toys (Bark Cherry & Lickin’ Lime) are among the highest-rated summer dog toys on Amazon. These plush toys come with a squeaker and feature a crinkly texture thanks to their inner mesh that is sure to pique your furry friend’s interest. As well as this, the toys are 7 inches in length, making them ideal for dogs of most sizes. These toys are also machine-washable and dryer-safe and are not made with toxic materials. Many pet parents are impressed by the thicker material of the toy and its sturdy stitching. So, if you’re looking to let your pooch join you for a few drinks, this may be the toy set for you!

However, even with its durable design, this toy will not stand up to all dogs. Some dogs, especially larger breeds, are known to chew through the toy very quickly. Be sure to remove and replace your dog’s toys when they show signs of harmful wear and tear.

2. Chuckit! Flying Squirrel Dog Toy

Chuckit! Flying Squirrel Dog Toy makes for a thrilling game of fetch with your pup. This flying toy is designed for large dogs. It is lightweight and even buoyant, making it suitable to use poolside or by lakes. This toy’s curved sides allow your pup to easily pick it up, while its glow-in-the-dark design makes it great for evening play. Also, its durable canvas build can withstand tossing and catching for hours of fun. Lastly, its design is flexible, its sides bounded by tubing that maintains its shape and flying ability.

Furthermore, the main concerns among pet parents are their dogs chewing the plastic corners. If your dog damages their toy, always remove it and replace it with a new one.

3. KONG – Aqua – Floating Fetch Toy for Water Play

KONG’s Floating Fetch Toy is a fantastic idea for water-loving dogs. This KONG acts as a water retrieval toy that supports good fun and exercise both in and out of water. This toy is also designed with a foam core to ensure that it floats in water. It’s also a bright neon orange, making it easy for you and your dog to spot in the water. Furthermore, this toy is made in the USA, which may offer some confidence to pet parents when they buy it. Pet parents love how sturdy and durable this toy is, making it one of our favorite summer dog toys!

However, though this toy is designed for water retrieval, the rope is not the most durable. Dogs who like to tug toys such as this one may make quick work of the rope, tearing it apart within days or weeks. Fortunately, reviewers say that it is easy to replace the rope when it becomes damaged.

4. SwimWays Paddle Paws Spring Float Dog Raft

SwimWays Paddle Paws Spring Float is designed especially for small or medium dogs weighing up to 65lbs. With its reinforced fabric covering and its puncture-resistant construction, this float offers long-lasting durability so your pooch can float with you all summer! Inner springs around the outer edges also provide better comfort and stability in the water, ensuring that your pooch stays afloat. Even better is that this float folds down flat into three compact circles for easy storage and transport. Moreover, with its ease of use and sturdiness, this dog float is one of our favorite summer dog products!

However, the main issue with this product is its ease of inflation. Some pet parents also find that the raft is difficult to inflate, and if it does, it may not hold well.

5. ChuckIt! Amphibious Bumper Floating Fetch Toy

ChuckIt! Amphibious Bumper Floating Fetch Toy is a colorful toy made with lightweight memory foam for plenty of fetching fun at the pool or at the beach. Along with memory foam, this toy features rubber and nylon that is soft on your dog’s gums and teeth. These materials also make it easy to clean. Its bright, eye-catching colors also attract dogs’ interest while also allowing high visibility for pet parents in the bright summer sun. Furthermore, its knotted, non-slip rope handle makes for easily directed throws.

As with other fetch toys, this toy is not designed to withstand vigorous chewing and tugging. Moreover, some pet parents find that their dogs chew through the toy or destroy the rope within a few days of use.

6. QDAN Dog Toys Soccer Ball with Grab Tabs

QDAN’s Soccer Ball With Grab Tabs is a durable and easy-to-use toy for any playful pooch. This dog ball complies with the same standard as children’s toys, made with premium PU that is suitable for frequent kicking and bouncing. This toy is most suitable for dogs weighing between 20 and 40lbs, however. Its highly-visible green tabs make it easy for dogs to fetch, tug, and retrieve. This ball also floats on water, making it perfect for poolside play too.

Some dogs may be able to chew through this toy within a few days. However, many pet parents note that the core stays strong despite the outer layer wearing away.

7. Ruff Dawg Flying Fish Dog Toy

Ruff Dawg‘s Flying Fish Dog Toy is a fun and unique way to keep your pup active in the summer. This fish is styled for throwing as well as floating, which makes it great for playing a poolside game of fetch with your furry friend. This toy is also made in the USA using superior quality rubber, which the manufacturer states to be tear and puncture-resistant. Even more, the material is rugged but flexible, making it kind to a dog’s teeth and gums. Lastly, this toy is available in four highly-visible colors, including red, green, yellow, and pink.

As with most fetch toys, this toy may not stand up to aggressive chewing. Some pet parents also dislike that they cannot choose the color they would like.

8. Peteast Splash Pad for Dogs

Peteast Dog Splash Pad is unique in that it offers a fountain as well as a pool to splash and romp in this summer. This splash pad is made using BPA-free, high-quality PVC. Its bottom mat is 0.5mm thick, making it durable enough to stand up to scratching from your pooch. As well as this, it’s easy to fold and transport, making it convenient to carry outdoors. Moreover, pet parents love that the splash pad often exceeds their expectations in sturdiness, too. In the event of a puncture, this splash pad comes with a patch for quick repairs.

Although this splash pad is sturdy in itself, it will not stand up to chewing or longer nails. Some reviewers also note that the pool leaves a patch of dead grass where it has been sitting, bringing potential toxicity into question. However, this claim is not proven and very few customers report it.

9. PetSafe Chilly Penguin

PetSafe’s Chilly Penguin Toy helps your pup to beat the heat with frozen treats. The Chilly Penguin toy can hold flavored water, broth, peanut butter, yogurt, or wet dog food to your pet’s liking. This toy is easy to clean too, as it is dishwasher-safe. Moreover, its curved shape is functional in that it allows multiple Chilly Penguins to be stacked on top of each other in the freezer, providing an ample supply for your pooch this summer. The shape also causes it to wobble playfully on the floor as your dog licks at their treats, making for a more engaging playtime experience.

Moreover, the most common critical reviews note the plastic connector tags of this toy. Some customers may also struggle to remove them, needing to use pliers or nail clippers to remove them. Others note that it can be difficult to clean hardened food from this toy.

10. Frontpet Large Foldable Dog Pool 

Frontpet Large Foldable Dog Pool is scratch-resistant and extra-tough, made using PVC and HDF internal walls. With these materials, the pool is UV, scratch, and wear-resistant. This pool also folds up and stores easily too, making for convenient transport. As well as this, the pet pool is easy to drain with its drain plug. And unlike some other dog pools, this one does not require inflation – simply unfold it and fill it with water!

This pet pool is not suitable for aggressive chewers. Some pet parents also find that their dogs easily chew through the sides of the pool within minutes of use. While you probably want to relax this summer, always make time to supervise your pup as they play with any summer dog product.

11. Outward Hound Floatiez Dog Toy

Outward Hound Floatiez Dog Toy is the perfect toy for water-loving pups. Unlike some other pool toys, Floatiez floats upright in the water, making it easy for your pooch to fetch with ease every time they play with it. These aquatic toys are thoughtfully designed with lightweight and quick-drying material. As well as this, the brightly-colored sea creature comes with a squeaker to excite and entice your pup to play in the summer sun.

However, this toy is not durable enough for chewing and tugging. As such, it’s best to use this toy for fetch games rather than tugging games. Always be sure to remove and replace your pup’s toys when they become damaged.

12. Kurgo Fetch Toy for Dogs

Kurgo Fetch Toy for Dog is unique in that it skids effortlessly on water like a real stone. This aquatic toy never gets waterlogged, and with its neon colors, it is highly visible from long distances. Moreover, its material is BPA-free and dishwasher-safe, making it easy to clean and safe for your pooch to play with. There are also three skipping stone types, including the easy rider, the fat bob, and the tiny. You will receive two random stones with your order.

However, these skipping stone toys will not hold up to aggressive chewers. As such, it’s best to use these toys only as retrieval toys. Some pet parents also note that the purple variety of skipping stones is difficult to spot in the water.

13. Dog Outdoor Dog Drinking Water Fountain Step On

Trio Gato’s Dog Step On Fountain is designed with care for your thirsty pooch. In summer, your dog will love being able to access water easily and with extra fun involved. This outdoor dog fountain features soft edges to protect your pup’s paws, as well as non-slip pads to keep it from moving about. It also contains a filter to provide clean, safe water. It also features anti-rust paint coating to further provide longevity. Lastly, this fountain is dog-activated – your pup needs to stand on the dispenser to make it work.

The main issues with this product include its durability and malfunctions. Some pet parents also find that the fountain gets stuck in the “on” position and cannot be turned off without disconnecting the hose. As well as this, it’s important to supervise your dog during play, as some dogs may break the spring or chew off the feet of the fountain if left alone.

14. Hyper Pet Chewz EVA Dog Toys & Fossil Durable Dog Chew Toys

Hyper Pet’s Fetching Dog Toy is versatile and fun, encouraging your pup to fetch and exercise. The buoyant, lightweight design of the stick toy allows it to float on water. Made with resilient EVA foam, this toy is perfect for long tosses across the beach, lake, or pool. Its material is also easy to clean – simply rinse off any dirt. This toy is also dishwasher-safe. Overall, if your dog enjoys retrieving sticks, this is the ideal toy for them! A real stick comes with the risk of splintering or picking up harmful diseases from the environment such as parvovirus.

As with other fetch toys, this toy is not made for chewing. As such, you must supervise your pooch during play to ensure that their toy lasts as long as possible. Be sure to take this toy from your dog as soon as they bring it back to you to prevent undue chewing.

15. Nerf Dog Atomic Flyer

Nerf Dog Atomic Flyer is perfect for fetching and teaching your dog new tricks in the summer. With its bright blue colors, this frisbee is easily trackable for both you and your furry friend, no matter how far you throw it. It is lightweight but durable, as well as weather and water-resistant, making it ideal for taking to the beach, lake, or pool. With its large 10-inch diameter, this flying toy is also best suited for medium or large breeds. Lastly, this toy is available in six bright, fun colors, so you’re sure to find one that meets your needs.

Although this frisbee is made with premium materials, it is not suitable for chewers. Some dogs will be able to chew this toy to pieces within minutes if left alone with it. Always supervise your pup when they play with their new toys!

16. Hyper Pet Dog Ball Launcher

Hyper Pet Dog Ball Launcher is an interactive dog toy that launches tennis balls for your pup to catch. This toy is easy to operate, featuring a quick trigger to get your dog jumping and fetching. You can also adjust the distance you launch tennis balls by pulling a lever – the further back you pull, the further the tennis ball flies. This toy also allows for hands-free pick up of the tennis balls – simply place the nuzzle over the ball and pull the lever.

The durability of this toy is the main issue among critical reviewers. Some pet parents find that the rubber band breaks within a few uses, while others find that the trigger breaks after a few months. Also, the seller offers no warranty for this product. Be sure to keep this ball launcher out of your pup’s reach – the launcher itself is not a chew toy and poses a risk of choking.

17. West Paw Seaflex Drifty Dog Toy

West Paw Seaflex Drifty Dog Toy is unique in that it is made for moderate chewers. Also unique to this dog toy is that it is 100% recycleable and is made with recycled ocean-bound plastic. The design of this toy poses a challenge for your dog with its chunky ends providing ample chewing opportunity. The toy is dishwasher-safe, BPA-free, and latex free. Among reviewers, there is satisfaction with the customer service for this toy, too, with some stating that West Paw sent a replacement toy for those that were destroyed by puppies. Lastly, it is made in the USA.

Some pet parents note that this toy is heavy, and may be less suitable for smaller dogs. Others say that the toy will not hold up to aggressive chewers – rather, it is best for light to moderate chewers.

18. Cool Pup Dog Toy Rocket Pop Ice Cream Popsicle 

Cool Pup’s Rocket Pop is unique in that it offers three scents – cherry, lemon-lime, and blue raspberry. This toy can be used as a regular chew toy or a cooling toy, making it perfect for cooling off in the summer. Fill the toy with water and freeze – as the water defrosts, it escapes through the small holes in the front, offering a satisfying chilly chew and a refreshing drink at the same time.

Although this toy is made with thermoplastic rubber, it may not hold up to aggressive chewers. Some pet parents find that their pups are able to chew through the toy within minutes of use. Always remove and replace your dog’s toys when they show signs of harmful wear and tear!

What Are Dog Summer Toys?

It’s a well-known fact that dogs love playtime. Though, there’s nothing quite like playing outdoors for a dog. Be it your local park, your front porch, or a swimming pool; dogs need to step out of the house regularly.

Summertime toys for dogs – as the name suggests – are made to give your doggy its next big adventure. Essentially, dog toys for summer are playthings you can use for outdoor activities, such as playing fetch or swimming. However, apart from the fun aspect attached to summer toys, they also offer a serious benefit. As a pet-parent, we’re sure you’re quite adept at recognizing the signs of boredom in your pet. These signs can range from excessive barking or running helter-skelter around the house.

Dogs are active animals, and they require mental and physical stimulation to stay happy and healthy. Of course, the exact amount of exercise your dog needs depends on several factors like breed and age. Still, experts recommend at least 30-60 minutes of physical activity per day. Before you get too worried though, the good news is that now you can combine fun-time with work-out time, for your dog. This is where dog toys can help big time. For instance, outdoor dog activity toys can help you keep your furry best friend from bad behavior and boredom by allowing it to run free (proverbially speaking, of course).

How To Choose Summer Toys For Dogs?

Did you know there’s an actual science to choosing outdoor dog play equipment? We’re kidding! There’s no science to having fun with your pet. Still, we’ve compiled a list of several aspects you should keep in mind when on the hunt for a doggy toy.

Breed

Choosing a toy for your pet isn’t easy on the best of days. You have to tackle questions like – will my dog even enjoy this type of toy?

We know this may sound like a no-brainer, but the breed of your dog will have a major impact on the kind of summer dog toys you buy. Thankfully, certain dog breeds have characteristic traits that you can utilize to select the best dog toys.

For instance, Terriers may be little tykes, but they were bred to be hunters. Not to mention, Terriers can be extremely active. To keep your Terrier occupied indefinitely, it’s a good idea to invest in the kind of toy that challenges its intelligence.

Age Of The Dog

The age of your dog is another important consideration when it comes to buying toys. Believe it or not, as full of energy as puppies are, it’s not a great idea to exercise or play with them for prolonged periods of time. This can do more harm than good, and in extreme situations, it can adversely affect your pet’s bone structure.

On the other hand, if your dog is a senior in doggy years, and you’re on the lookout for toys like launchers – then you should probably take a moment to recollect. Older dogs do need physical activity but of a gentler kind. For example, it’s a good idea for you to consider interactive water toys for dogs because swimming is a great form of exercise for mature dogs.

If your dog is still in its happy-go-lucky years, then the sky’s the limit for you, my friend. You can go with sprinkler toys for dogs or frisbees or even a squeaky plush toy.

Personal Preferences

Whoever said dogs aren’t picky – obviously never met a picky dog. Many people think there’s no such thing as a dog that’s too choosy when it comes to toys. Others think this is a myth started by cat owners.

Then, there are those poor dog-parents who know that persnickety pups are very, very real. That’s why you should always keep your dog’s personal preference in mind when you go summer shopping.

Fortunately, as we said earlier, pet-parents have a lot of choices when it comes to toys. From dog water-fountains to interactive treat dispensers – there are a lot of people out there making summer dog toys.

Activity Level Of The Dog

You can also choose to buy toys based on the activity level of your dog. All dogs are not created with the same energy levels – which means that maybe you’re the lucky individual who got their hands on a relaxed Jack Russell Terrier.

The point we’re trying to make is that you should also consider your doggy’s activity levels when buying toys. For that matter, you don’t just have to stick to getting toys that’ll keep your pet active. You can also buy distraction toys – like treat-dispensing toys. Comfort toys are also a good idea because they serve as a great outlet for energy release.

Summer Dog Toy Safety

When your dog is out in the summer heat, monitor them for heatstroke, choking, and water intoxication. Do not rely on cooling toys alone to keep your pooch safe from heatstroke. Always be sure that your pet has access to plenty of shade and cool, fresh water. Do not leave your dog attended, especially in high temperatures.

Heatstroke

Every pet parent has heard of heatstroke, but not all know the signs. The most obvious sign is excessive panting. The other symptoms include drooling, red gums, vomiting, diarrhea, and mental dullness. Your dog may also lose consciousness, struggle to walk, and collapse. Get your dog to the emergency vet right away if they show signs of heatstroke, as this can be fatal if left untreated. On the way, you can begin the cooling process by draping a damp, cool towel over your dog. Do not use ice at this time as you risk sending your dog into shock.

Choking

As always, it’s essential to supervise your dog when they play with toys. This is especially true for toys that are smaller in size or liable to break easily. With chewing cokes a risk of choking, and you want to protect your furry friend to the best of your ability.

If your dog starts choking, do not attempt to make them vomit. First, gently restrain them to protect yourself – a choking dog may struggle and bite in their panic. Open your dog’s mouth and look inside – you may be able to remove it with a large pair of tweezers or sweep your hand through your dog’s mouth with the help of another person. If you are likely to be bitten, get your dog to an emergency vet right away instead. You may also be able to help by supporting your dog’s head downwards against yourself or lifting its hind legs like a wheelbarrow. If the object has gotten stuck in your dog’s throat, the Heimlich maneuver will be necessary. If your dog is standing, put your arms around its belly, make a fist with one hand, and with your other hand push firmly and upward just behind the ribcage.

When your dog’s toys start to show signs of harmful wear and tear, always remove them and replace them with new ones. Your dog will appreciate the variety, too.

Water Intoxication

Supervision is also essential for aquatic dog toys. If your dog swallows too much water too quickly, it can lead to something known as water intoxication. When suffering from water intoxication, your dog will become nauseous, lethargic, and weak. They may lose their coordination and stagger, salivating excessively with dilated pupils. In the most severe cases, some dogs will have difficulty breathing, collapse, or even fall into a coma. At the first signs of water intoxication, get your dog to an emergency vet – this cannot be treated at home.

Summer Dog Toys – FAQs

Before you go rushing to the first online pet shop to get your pooch an assortment of the best dog toys out there, take a minute to go through our FAQs.

After hours of internet surfing and a healthy tan, we’ve put together the answers to some of the most popular queries of dog owners. So, if you still have some questions regarding summer toys – then this is your chance.

Overall, the best summer dog toys offer some way for your pooch to keep cool. Whether this is by encouraging them to swim in cool water, or offering frozen delights to keep them occupied, your pooch will need plenty of ways to beat the heat, too. Always supervise your dog when they play with toys.