A fun beach day with your dog isn’t complete without toys designed to keep them entertained and active. Floating and water-resistant toys are perfect for fetch, tugging, and chewing, ensuring your pup stays happy and engaged while you relax. Here’s a breakdown of eight of the best dog toys for water play, with highlights, pros, and cons to help you pick the perfect one for your furry friend.
1. Chuckit! Flying Squirrel Fetch Dog Toy
Why It’s Great: This frisbee-style toy glides through the air and floats, making it perfect for dogs that love chasing and retrieving. The durable canvas material and bright colors make it easy to spot and built to last.
- Key Features:
- Floats on water
- Bright orange and blue for visibility
- Lightweight and durable
Pros:
- Encourages active play
- Long-distance throwing for a great workout
- Lightweight and easy to carry
Cons:
- Not suitable for heavy chewers
- Requires drying after use
2. KONG Aqua Floating Fetch Toy
Why It’s Great: Known for their durability, KONG toys stand the test of time. This toy floats thanks to its foam core and includes a rope for easy throwing and retrieval.
- Key Features:
- Foam core ensures buoyancy
- Includes a durable rope
- Ideal for interactive water play
Pros:
- Built to last
- Easy to spot in water
- Encourages exercise and bonding
Cons:
- Rope may fray with heavy use
- Best for medium-sized dogs
3. Hyper Pet Flippy Flopper Dog Frisbee
Why It’s Great: A soft yet durable frisbee that’s easy on your dog’s teeth and gums. Perfect for high-flying games of fetch and floating water play.
- Key Features:
- Gentle on teeth
- Bright colors for visibility
- Floats on water
Pros:
- Lightweight and portable
- Affordable
- Easy for all sizes to play with
Cons:
- May not withstand heavy chewing
- Wears out faster with frequent use
4. Nerf Dog Nylon Flyer Dog Toy
Why It’s Great: Designed with water-resistant nylon, this toy is lightweight and perfect for energetic dogs who love games of fetch by the beach or pool.
- Key Features:
- Water-resistant material
- Lightweight for easy throwing
- Durable for extended play
Pros:
- Bright and visible
- Tough enough for active use
- Suitable for water and land
Cons:
- Not ideal for aggressive chewers
- Needs supervision during play
5. Chuckit! Amphibious Fetch Balls
Why It’s Great: These lightweight balls float high on water, making them easy to retrieve. Specifically designed for water fetch, they’re a must-have for beach-loving pups.
- Key Features:
- Bright, high-visibility colors
- Floats effortlessly
- Lightweight and easy to throw
Pros:
- Perfect for most dog sizes
- Easy to clean
- Unsinkable
Cons:
- Less durable than solid rubber balls
- Limited to fetch games
6. Outward Hound Floatiez Clownfish
Why It’s Great: A colorful, floating plush toy that features a squeaker to keep your dog engaged. Perfect for softer play and water fun.
- Key Features:
- Plush, water-resistant design
- Built-in squeaker
- Floats for easy retrieval
Pros:
- Gentle on mouths
- Engages dogs with squeaks
- Bright and fun design
Cons:
- Not durable for aggressive chewers
- Requires drying after water play
7. Ruff Dawg Flying Fish Floating Dog Toy
Why It’s Great: Shaped like a fish, this rubber toy floats and is designed for fun, high-energy fetch games in the water.
- Key Features:
- Durable rubber construction
- Unique fish design
- Floats on water
Pros:
- Highly durable
- Fun and engaging shape
- Easy to spot
Cons:
- Heavier than other toys
- May not appeal to all dogs
8. KONG Wet Wubba Dog Toy
Why It’s Great: Made with neoprene fabric, this quick-drying toy is perfect for tugging and fetching games both on land and in the water.
- Key Features:
- Quick-drying neoprene material
- Lightweight for throwing
- Bright colors for visibility
Pros:
- Durable and versatile
- Suitable for tugging and retrieving
- Bright and easy to spot
Cons:
- Limited to medium and large dogs
- Less suitable for solo play
Final Thoughts
Picking the best toy for your dog depends on their play style. Observe how your dog interacts with their current toys—do they prefer chasing and retrieving, chewing, or tugging? Active dogs might enjoy fetch toys like frisbees or balls, while chewers benefit from durable rubber toys. If your dog is easily bored, consider toys that incorporate interactive elements like squeakers or unique textures. By identifying their preferences, you can choose a toy that keeps them entertained and happy. For active fetchers, the Chuckit! Flying Squirrel and KONG Aqua Fetch Toy are excellent. If your pup enjoys softer toys, the Outward Hound Floatiez Clownfish is a hit, while the Ruff Dawg Flying Fish adds a fun twist. No matter what you choose, these toys promise endless fun and exercise for your beach-loving buddy.
