If your pup shreds a plush toy faster than you can say “walkies,” you already know the pain of watching $15 squeakers sail straight into the trash. Five Below has quietly become the budget-hound’s best-kept secret, stocking aisles of durable ropes, treat puzzles, and crinkle critters that all ring up under five bucks. Before you assume “cheap” equals “junk,” it helps to understand how the retailer’s 2025 pet line actually works: smarter materials, smaller margins, and trend-savvy designs that mirror the premium brands—minus the markup.
Below, we’ll dig into everything you should look for when you’re scanning those neon-bright shelves. From safety stitching to enrichment value, here’s how to sniff out the toys that’ll survive more than one zoomie session—and keep your wallet wagging too.
Top 10 Dog Toys Five Below
Detailed Product Reviews
1. Best Pet Supplies Crinkle Dog Toy for Small, Medium, and Large Breeds, Cute No Stuffing Duck with Soft Squeaker, Fun for Indoor Puppies and Senior Pups, Plush No Mess Chew and Play – Yellow
Overview: The Best Pet Supplies Crinkle Duck is a stuffing-free, squeaky plush that promises mess-free fun for dogs of every size. At 6.79 USD it targets owners who want a cute, gentle toy that crinkles and squeaks without scattering fluff across the living-room rug.
What Makes It Stand Out: The reinforced seams plus crinkle-and-squeaker combo give auditory feedback while eliminating the “snowstorm” problem most plush toys create. Six bright colors and a realistic duck silhouette make it photo-ready for social-media pup parents.
Value for Money: Mid-range price sits between bargain bin singles and premium “indestructible” brands. One toy survives weeks of light-to-moderate chewing, so cost-per-play stays low for puppies, seniors or supervised chewers; power-chewers may still need a budget backup.
Strengths and Weaknesses:
Pros: no stuffing mess, lightweight for fetch, soft on gums, washable, great for tug or solo play.
Cons: not for heavy chewers—fabric tears after determined gnawing, single squeaker means silence once punctured, sizing runs small for giant breeds.
Bottom Line: A charming, low-mess enrichment toy that earns its keep in multi-dog homes or with gentler mouths. Buy it for crinkle-obsessed pups, but keep an eye on aggressive chewers.
2. Multipet International Original Loofa Dog Mini 6-Inch Dog Toy (Assorted colors)
Overview: Multipet’s 6-inch Loofa Dog is the dollar-store celebrity of squeaky toys—bright, skinny and cheap at 2.75 USD. Designed for small-to-medium dogs, it’s basically a polyester sausage with a squeaker that ships in random colors.
What Makes It Stand Out: Price and shape. It’s one of the few toys you can grab at checkout without noticing the cost, and the floppy body invites shaking games that smaller dogs love.
Value for Money: Incredible. Even if your terrier murders it in two days, the entertainment-per-dollar rivals a latte. Replacement is painless, making it ideal for foster homes or toy-destroying champions.
Strengths and Weaknesses:
Pros: irresistible squeak, feather-light, easy to carry, ultra-affordable, comes in fun colors.
Cons: thin stitching unravels quickly, stuffing emerges fast, too small for large breeds, dye may bleed when wet.
Bottom Line: A disposable squeaky that guarantees instant tail wags. Stock up and treat it like bubble wrap for dogs—fun while it lasts, no tears when it’s gone.
3. Nocciola Dog Squeaky Toys, 5 PCS Crinkle Plush Dog Toys, No Stuffing Dog Toys for Small Medium Large Dogs, Stuffless Puppy Toys for Boredom
Overview: Nocciola’s five-piece crinkle set delivers squeaky snakes and short buddies, all sans stuffing, for 18.99 USD. Pitched as boredom busters, the toys rely on dual squeakers plus crackle paper to keep pups engaged while owners are away.
What Makes It Stand Out: Two squeakers per toy and crinkle layer give triple sound payoff. The “long snake” design lets dogs thrash without the toy instantly dying—great for photo-worthy shake sessions.
Value for Money: About 3.80 USD per toy, landing in the sweet spot between discount singles and boutique plush. Quality fabric survives several play cycles, so the pack outlasts cheaper individuals.
Strengths and Weaknesses:
Pros: no fluff disaster, multiple textures, dual squeakers extend life, good variety for different play styles, suits small to large dogs.
Cons: aggressive chewers still gut them, squeakers are loud on hardwood, heads may separate at weak seam points.
Bottom Line: A smart variety bundle for households that cycle through toys quickly. Rotate the pieces and you’ll buy yourself weeks of occupied dog time.
4. Aipper Dog Toys 25 Pack for Fun and Teeth Cleaning, Puppy Chew Toys Pack with Squeak Plush Toy,Squeaky Toy Balls,Tug of War and Rope Toys for Puppy to Small Dogs
Overview: Aipper’s 25-item carnival-in-a-box aims to be the only toy purchase a new puppy parent needs. For 17.98 USD you score plush squeakers, rope tugs, rubber dental toys, balls, a flyer and even poop-bag rolls—effectively a starter kit for chewing, teething, fetching and training.
What Makes It Stand Out: Volume and versatility. Rarely does one SKU bundle enrichment, dental care, fetch and clean-up supplies. Cotton ropes are knotted for gum massage while non-toxic rubber bones carry bristles to scrub plaque.
Value for Money: Staggering. At roughly 72 cents per item, you’d struggle to buy a single rope elsewhere. The included poop-bag dispenser alone offsets a couple of dollars.
Strengths and Weaknesses:
Pros: massive variety prevents boredom, sizes suited to puppies & small dogs, dental textures aid teething, great gift box presentation.
Cons: not durable for strong chewers, plush toys die quickly, some rope ends fray and shed threads, storage bag not included.
Bottom Line: The ultimate budget bundle for new pups or small-breed homes. Expect to replace individual pieces over time, but as an introductory arsenal it’s unbeatable.
5. Fuufome Large Squeaky Dog Toys- Plush Dog Toys with Soft Fabric for Small, Medium, and Large Dogs Daily Companionship, Training Reward Gift
Overview: Fuufome’s 13.5-inch octopus-meets-spider plush targets heavy chewers who still love softness. Priced at 9.99 USD, the toy marries a reinforced pineapple-cotton body with a belly squeaker and six extra-long, floppy legs ideal for tug-of-war or solo thrashing.
What Makes It Stand Out: Size plus texture. Larger than most “cute” plush yet lighter than rubber chew devices, it satisfies snuggle and prey-drive instincts simultaneously. The six-leg design distributes chewing stress, slowing rips.
Value for Money: Mid-pack pricing beats boutique tough-plush brands while offering more stitching than bargain singles. If it survives a month with a determined chewer you’ve already saved replacement costs.
Strengths and Weaknesses:
Pros: generous size for big mouths, soft but triple-stitched, squeaker maintains interest, doubles as cuddle pillow, machine-washable.
Cons: not truly indestructible—aggressive jaws still pierce fabric, squeaker is single-point-of-failure, light color shows dirt fast.
Bottom Line: A floppy, huggable middle ground for dogs that demolish regular plush yet deserve something softer than nylon bones. Supervise, but enjoy the extra mileage over typical stuffed animals.
6. Outward Hound, Hedgehogz Plush Dog Toy, Medium
Overview:
Outward Hound’s Hedgehogz is a classic plush that shrinks the spiky forest friend into a soft, squeaky companion for medium-sized dogs.
What Makes It Stand Out:
The toy’s rounded, low-seam body is purposely built for “carry-and-cuddle” addicts, while a hidden grunter plus squeaker gives it two distinct voices—most plush only offer one.
Value for Money:
At $4.51 it lands squarely in “impulse-buy” territory, yet the reinforced seams outlive similarly priced supermarket plush by weeks.
Strengths and Weaknesses:
Pros: ultra-soft faux fur dogs love to nuzzle; dual sound keeps interest high; four size options.
Cons: not for power chewers—supervised play is mandatory; fuzzy coat pills after repeated washes.
Bottom Line:
A lovable, inexpensive comfort toy for gentle mouths; just be ready to retire it once stuffing starts peeking out.
7. Carllg Dog Chew Toys for Aggressive Chewers, Indestructible Tough Durable Squeaky Interactive Dog Toys, Puppy Teeth Chew Corn Stick Toy for Small Medium Large Breed
Overview:
Carllg’s bright orange “corn stick” bills itself as an indestructible squeaky toothbrush for dogs that shred everything else.
What Makes It Stand Out:
The zig-zag ridges actually reach both sides of the canine tooth, providing a flossing action rarely seen in purely recreational chews.
Value for Money:
$12.99 is mid-range, but the medical-grade TPR survives months of gnawing, saving furniture and pricier chews alike.
Strengths and Weaknesses:
Pros: floats, bounces, and squeaks; dishwasher-safe; safe for teething puppies up to 80-lb power chewers.
Cons: surface scratches can trap hair; squeaker dies eventually; some dogs find the plastic smell off-putting at first.
Bottom Line:
One of the few “tough” toys that really is—buy it for heavy jaws and enjoy weeks of quiet (except for the squeak).
8. Nocciola Stuffless Squeaky Dog Toys 5 Pack, Body No Stuffing Small Dog Toy Variety Colors Animal Plush Puppy Toys with Squeaker Crinkle Sound to Keep Them Busy
Overview:
Nocciola’s five-pack of stuff-less woodland critters promises riotous squeaks and crinkles minus the snow-storm of stuffing.
What Makes It Stand Out:
Each toy pairs a belly squeaker with crinkle paper wings, plus knotted limbs that can be linked together into a single mega-tug rope—variety built right in.
Value for Money:
$22.99 breaks down to $4.60 apiece, cheaper than most single toys found in big-box stores, and they survive washing machines intact.
Strengths and Weaknesses:
Pros: zero swallow-able fill; vivid colors aid indoor fetch; multiple textures clean teeth.
Cons: small size better for terriers than Labs; aggressive chewers can shred seams in days; crinkle noise may annoy noise-sensitive owners.
Bottom Line:
Excellent “party bag” for gentle-to-moderate chewers—rotate the five toys and you’ll buy yourself a month of engaged, mess-free play.
9. Best Pet Supplies 2-in-1 Stuffless Squeaky Dog Toys with Soft, Durable Fabric for Small, Medium, and Large Pets, No Stuffing for Indoor Play, Supports Active Biting and Play – 1Wild Duck, Small
Overview:
Best Pet Supplies’ 2-in-1 Wild Duck is a flat, stuffing-free skin that doubles as a water-bottle cruncher for dogs who love that irresistible crackle.
What Makes It Stand Out:
A velcro belly lets you swap in a standard 16-oz bottle; when the bottle is crushed, simply replace—no need to buy a new toy.
Value for Money:
$5.99 is cheaper than most refillable crinkle toys, and the plush sleeve protects gums from sharp plastic edges.
Strengths and Weaknesses:
Pros: two squeakers remain even after bottle death; machine-washable sleeve; available in seven cute critters.
Cons: small size lacks bottle slot—buy medium/large for crunch feature; not for shredders who target velcro; thin plush punctures quickly.
Bottom Line:
Brilliant budget hack for bottle-loving dogs; just treat the plush as a consumable and keep fresh bottles on hand.
10. AWOOF Dog Toys No Stuffing, 5 Pack Dog Squeaky Toys Set Durable Dog Chew Toy for Pets Entertaining Toys Puppy Small Medium Large Dog
Overview:
AWOOF’s five-pack delivers ocean-themed, stuffing-free shapes—crab, octopus, crocodile and more—each packed with multiple squeakers.
What Makes It Stand Out:
Corduroy-reinforced bodies plus artificial rabbit plush give superior abrasion resistance compared with standard thin fleece no-stuff toys.
Value for Money:
$17.99 nets five toys at $3.60 each, the cheapest per-unit price in this roundup, yet fabric feels premium and survives several laundry cycles.
Strengths and Weaknesses:
Pros: zero stuffing hazard; lightweight for tiny jaws; cute gift-ready box.
Cons: labeled “not for aggressive chewers” and they mean it—heavy chewers gut squeakers within minutes; dark colors show saliva stains.
Bottom Line:
A colorful, affordable squeak-fest perfect for puppies, seniors, or any dog that plays gently; supervise and swap frequently to extend life.
Why Five Below Is a Goldmine for Dog Toys in 2025
Inflation has nudged even basic fetch balls past the $8 mark at big-box pet chains. Five Below’s price ceiling keeps impulse buys guilt-free, while their expanded pet section now devotes almost 25% of floor space to dog gear. The result: trend-right toys drop weekly, giving shoppers first crack on designs that mimic $20–$30 items elsewhere.
The Science of the $5 Price Cap
Five Below’s buying power is massive—think airplane-hangar warehouses and container-direct freight. By stripping away fancy packaging and licensing fees, they land factory-close pricing on TPR rubber, cotton rope, and recycled polyester. In 2025, improved supply-chain tech lets them forecast demand faster, so fewer overstock write-offs and more savings for you.
Understanding Toy Safety on a Budget
Cheap doesn’t have to mean chintzy. Look for ASTM F963 compliance on the hangtag—that’s the same standard used for kids’ toys—and avoid any vinyl smell, which can indicate excess phthalates. Five Below’s QC team now batch-tests for heavy metals and sharp-edge protocols; flip the toy over and you’ll spot a small “TÜV Passed” sticker on 2025 shipments.
Material Matters: Plush, Rubber, Rope, or TPR?
Plush is perfect for supervised cuddle time, but power chewers need thermoplastic rubber (TPR) or nylon. Cotton rope naturally flosses teeth, yet frays fast with vigorous tug-of-war. TPR floats, bounces, and withstands jaw pressure up to 200 psi—ideal for fetch addicts. Match the material to your dog’s chew IQ, not just the cute factor.
Size & Breed Considerations Before You Buy
A 2” mini bone might be marketed “for all dogs,” but it’s a choking risk for Labs and Shepherds. Conversely, an XL rope knot can sprain a Chihuahua’s neck. Use the “too big to swallow, light enough to carry” rule: if your dog can’t hold the toy and prance, size up or down accordingly.
Durability Testing: What to Inspect In-Store
Give the seam a two-tug stress test; loose threads mean stuffing fireworks in minutes. Squeeze squeakers—if they sound muffled, the bladder could be off-center and prone to puncture. Flex rubber edges; whitening stress marks predict snap points. Finally, check that any embedded rope is knotted inside the toy, not just glued.
Enrichment Factor: Mental Stimulation on a Shoestring
Treat-dispensing puzzles under $5? Yes. Look for adjustable rubber flaps or internal maze patterns that slow kibble release. A slower roll equals longer engagement, cutting hyperactivity and furniture chewing. Rotate these “brain toys” every few days to keep novelty high without buying more gear.
Washability and Hygiene Hacks
Drool plus dirt equals microbial paradise. Machine-washable plush should list “100% polyester fill” and stitched (not glued) seams. For rubber, seek dishwasher-safe icons—top rack, no heat dry. Weekly sanitizing extends toy life and prevents that unmistakable “dog toy funk” from overtaking the living room.
Eco-Friendly Shifts in 2025’s Five Below Line
Post-consumer recycled polyester now shows up in squeaky critter shells, and some ropes use Global Recycled Standard cotton. Packaging shrank 30% by weight, swapping plastic blisters for kraft board. While not fully green, the incremental change means you can feel slightly less guilty about an impulse bin dive.
Seasonal Drops: When New Toys Hit Shelves
Valentine’s heart-shaped tugs arrive January 2. Summer lake season brings floating bumper packs in May. Halloween plush ghosts pop up September 1 and clearance October 31—perfect time to stock thrifty holiday gifts. Mark your calendar the same way you stalk candy markdowns.
Avoiding the “Too Cute to Function” Trap
Pastel unicorns and pizza-slice plush score Instagram likes, but check function: Does the toy have varied textures for teething? Reinforced ears or wings? If aesthetic seams outnumber reinforced ones, post the pic, then put it back. Form should serve function—or at least survive the first photo shoot.
Making the Most of Five Below’s Return Policy
Pet toys fall under “all sales final” unless defective. Snap a shelf photo plus receipt; if the squeaker dies in 24 hours, customer service usually offers an exchange. Keep packaging until your dog stress-tests the goods—no box, no bargaining power.
Budget Rotation Strategy: Keeping Fido Engaged for Less
Buy three toy types—plush, rubber, puzzle—and rotate weekly. Store off-duty toys in a sealed bin with a sprinkle of kibble; the lingering scent rekindles interest at reintroduction. One month, one set of toys, under $15 total. Your dog thinks you’re a wizard, your bank account stays calm.
DIY Upgrades: Enhancing Five Below Toys at Home
Drill two clean holes in a $3 rubber bone, thread a worn T-shirt strip, and boom—fling toy that sails twice as far. Stuff leftover fleece into a squeak-free denim pocket for seniors who crave softness minus noise. A $1 tube of pet-safe dye turns a bland rope into a color-coded “outside only” tug.
Repurposing Worn-Out Toys: Zero-Waste Tips
Salvage intact squeakers for homemade crinkle pouches. Braid rope strands into a new tug, then compost the rest. Rubber shards? Cut into jar openers or plant-pot drainage chunks. Landfill last, Pinterest first—your pup’s trash becomes your upcycle treasure.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Are Five Below dog toys safe for aggressive chewers?
Yes, provided you choose TPR or nylon options and inspect seams before each play session. No toy is indestructible, so supervise heavy chewers and remove at first sign of breakage.
2. How often does Five Below restock dog toys?
New SKUs arrive weekly, with major seasonal resets every eight weeks. Tuesday mornings are prime hunting time right after store freight is processed.
3. Can I wash plush toys in hot water?
Stick to cold or warm cycles to prevent glue from melting. Air-dry thoroughly; high heat can shrink polyester stuffing and distort shape.
4. Do Five Below toys contain latex?
Most 2025 rubber items are latex-free TPR, but always check the fine print if your dog has a latex allergy.
5. Is there a loyalty program for pet purchases?
Five Below’s “Five Beyond” app gives members early alerts on pet drops and occasional digital coupons, though prices remain capped at $5.
6. What’s the best toy for a teething puppy?
Look for rope-and-rubber combos labeled “puppy” with a soft TPR durometer under 50A. Freeze the rope portion for soothing gums.
7. Why do some squeakers stop working so quickly?
Moisture and vigorous compression dislodge the internal reed. Store squeaky toys indoors and rotate to extend life.
8. Are there eco-friendly disposal options for ruined toys?
Cotton rope can be composted if dyed with vegetable inks. Check local textile recycling for polyester plush; rubber goes in the trash unless your municipality accepts TPR.
9. Can I donate unused Five Below toys to shelters?
Absolutely—shelters love lightweight, easy-sanitize options. Remove all plastic tags and wash before donating.
10. How do I know if a toy is too small for my dog?
If it fits entirely behind your dog’s canine teeth, it’s a choking hazard. When in doubt, choose the next size up or skip rope toys without knots.