Top Dog Toy Trends for 2026
The pet industry evolves fast, and 2026 is shaping up to be an exciting year for dog toys. From eco-conscious materials to tech-integrated play, pet parents have more innovative options than ever before. Whether you are a trend-savvy pet parent or just curious about what is new, here are the biggest dog toy trends defining 2026.
1. Sustainable and Eco-Friendly Materials
The biggest trend in 2026 is sustainability. Pet parents are demanding toys made from recycled, organic, and biodegradable materials. The days of cheap plastic toys that end up in landfills after a week are numbered.
Brands leading this charge use recycled polyester, organic cotton, natural rubber, and plant-based dyes. At PAWTY, our Avocado Plush Dog Toy is crafted with GentlePlush eco-friendly 3-layer fabric, a perfect example of how sustainability and durability can coexist. More pet parents are asking what a toy is made of before purchasing, and brands that cannot answer transparently are falling behind.
2. Adjustable and Customizable Features
One-size-fits-all is dead. In 2026, dog toys are becoming customizable to fit different dogs, environments, and owner preferences. Adjustable squeaker volumes, removable components, and modular designs let you tailor the toy to your specific situation.
PAWTY SuperSqueak technology was ahead of this curve. Our adjustable volume squeaker lets you dial the noise up for outdoor play or down for apartment living. You will find this feature in toys like the Golden Goose Plush Dog Toy, and the rest of the industry is following suit.
3. Multi-Functional Toys
Why buy three toys when one can do it all? Multi-functional toys that combine squeaking, treat-dispensing, tug, and puzzle elements are surging in popularity. Pet parents love the value, and dogs love the variety.
The 3-in-1 Cupcake exemplifies this trend perfectly. It offers multiple play modes in a single toy. Expect to see more multi-in-one designs throughout 2026.
4. Nostalgia and Pop Culture Themes
Dog toys are getting more creative with their designs, drawing from pop culture, food trends, and nostalgic references. Pet parents want toys that are Instagram-worthy and reflect their own personality and interests.
From sushi-shaped plushies to cocktail-themed toys, the novelty toy market is booming. PAWTY has been a leader in this space with designs like the Korean Soju and 1996 Tequila Plush Dog Toy that combine fun themes with serious play functionality.
5. Mental Enrichment Over Physical Exercise
The conversation around dog wellness has shifted significantly. While physical exercise remains important, 2026 sees a major emphasis on mental enrichment. Puzzle toys, snuffle mats, and interactive feeders are no longer niche products. They are essentials.
Veterinary behaviorists have been advocating for mental stimulation for years, and pet parents are finally catching on. A tired brain leads to a calmer dog, and smart toys that challenge your pup problem-solving abilities are flying off shelves.
6. Subscription and Rotation Services
Toy subscription boxes have been around for a while, but 2026 is seeing a refinement of the model. Instead of random assortments, services now curate boxes based on your dog size, play style, and preferences. Some even offer rotation services where you return toys for new ones, reducing waste.
7. Size-Inclusive Design
The industry is finally getting serious about size inclusivity. Small dogs deserve more than miniature versions of large-dog toys, and giant breeds need toys that are not just oversized tennis balls. Expect to see more thoughtful size-specific designs in 2026.
8. Sensory-Rich Experiences
Toys that engage multiple senses simultaneously are trending upward. Crinkle sounds, varied textures, hidden squeakers, and treat scents combine to create rich sensory experiences that keep dogs engaged longer.
PAWTY SnackStash technology, found in toys like the Waffle Interactive Toy, combines treat slots, crinkle elements, and snuffle features for exactly this kind of multi-sensory engagement.
9. Transparent Sourcing and Safety Testing
Pet parents in 2026 are savvy consumers. They want to know where materials come from, how toys are tested, and what safety standards are met. Brands that publish their testing results and supply chain information earn trust and loyalty.
10. Social Media-Worthy Design
Let us be honest. Many pet parents choose toys partly based on how they will look in photos. The aesthetic toy market is real, and brands are designing products that look as good on Instagram as they perform during play. Bold colors, recognizable shapes, and clever themes drive sharing and discovery.
What This Means for You
The dog toy industry is maturing rapidly. Higher quality materials, smarter designs, and more thoughtful features mean you are getting better value than ever before. When shopping for toys in 2026, prioritize eco-friendly materials that are safe for your dog and the planet, multi-functional designs that offer more play value per dollar, toys that provide mental stimulation not just physical play, and brands that are transparent about their materials and manufacturing.
At PAWTY, we have been committed to these principles from day one. Our combination of SuperSqueak adjustable squeakers, GentlePlush eco-friendly fabrics, SnackStash interactive elements, and RuffRope durability means you are always getting toys built for the future. Browse our full collection at pawty.com and see why we are the brand that trend-conscious dog parents trust.
