TOY SALES CROSSED the $1 billion mark in 2016, making it the largest durable dog and cat pet-care category. According to market research firm Packaged Facts, the growth will continue, looking ahead into 2020 and beyond. Areas of growth include steady demand in sport and fetch toys, renewed interest in chew toys and a continued love of durable plush. We’ve selected eight new releases across the spectrum.
Big Dawg
Ruff Dawg
KEY FEATURES: USA made of solid rubber, FDA-approved and free of phthalates, latex and BPAs. They bounce, float and are gentle on teeth and gums. Available in two sizes in assorted neon colors.
SALES TIP: Lifetime indestructibility guarantee: Customers can visit the company’s website to request a replacement.
ruffdawg.com, (330) 821-8011
$18.99/$27.99
CHOYS Crab
Aussie Naturals
KEY FEATURES: All-natural jute cotton rope meets water buffalo bone to create a durable chew toy. The rope fibers act as floss, too, for additional oral hygiene. New line includes seven toys.
SALES TIP: Well-suited for teething puppies and active chewers alike.
aussienaturals.com, (800) 456-5778
$13.99
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Rumpus
West Paw
KEY FEATURES: Made with patented Zogoflex material, Rumpus is built for tough chewers, with three chew lobes. Bounces on land and floats in water. Comes in two sizes and three colors.
SALES TIP: These Montana-made products are guaranteed tough, backed up with a refund or replacement warranty.
westpaw.com, (800) 443-5567
$11.95/$15.95
Back to School Collection
P.L.A.Y.
KEY FEATURES: Smarty-pups can become teacher’s pet, with this plush set that includes a calculator, football, artist palette, beakers, and graduation cap and scroll, which crinkle, squeak and glow in the dark.
SALES TIP: Stuffed with certified-safe PlanetFill material made from recycled plastic bottles.
petplay.com, (855) 300-7529
$51.90 collection; $7.90-$16.90 individual toys
Ricochet
PetSafe
KEY FEATURES: An interactive, paired set of two toys that will have dogs bouncing back and forth as they try to catch the “moving” squeak sound coming from each toy.
SALES TIP: Uses three AAA batteries, which last up to a month of daily use.
petsafe.com, (866) 738-4379
$59.99
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Fun Foods Chips
Ethical Products
KEY FEATURES: Whimsical, realistic designs on durable fabric with crinkle paper and squeaker inside. Available in seven snack styles, 8 inches tall.
SALES TIP: Tastes great, less filling: Each bag provides 100 percent of daily dose of fun and zero calories.
ethicalpet.com, (800) 223-7768
$7.99
LOBO the Wolf Puppy
Fluff & Tuff
KEY FEATURES: Lobo means “wolf” in Spanish and this ultra-plush pup’s blue eyes stand out in a pack.
SALES TIP: Lobo’s larger size means he can take the rough-and-tumble play of a larger dog, and makes an ideal holiday gift as one of Fluff & Tuff’s XL options.
fluffandtuff.com, (248) 705-5601
$28.95
Pacific Ring
Ruff Wear
KEY FEATURES: An engaging toy inspired by avalanche rescue dogs and their handlers during training. Built with Dual Shield high-tenacity rope.
SALES TIP: Versatile design engages diverse play styles, especially fetching and tugging, and it’s foldable for easy stow on the go.
ruffwear.com, (888) 783-3932
$24.95