Adopting a rescue is an incredibly rewarding experience. You’re not only providing them with a safe and comfortable environment, but you’re also giving them a chance to learn to trust people and bond with you.

Rescue dogs may need help with building confidence or overcoming behaviour issues and at Tug-E-Nuff, we believe that play can go a long way to making training and bonding a lot of fun. 

Not all dogs naturally take to play

In fact, that’s how Tug-E-Nuff started….

Our own Collie Indy, wasn’t remotely interested in play. So, my mum began making dog training toys to encourage Indy to interact. 

Through the power of play with toys designed by dog trainers, Indy overcame her behaviour issues and learned to love a good game of tuggy!

New home, new toys!

Whether you’ve just adopted a new dog into your family, or have a rescue who’s firmly part of the family, we’ve rounded up our best dog toys, approved by rescue dogs! 

Best dog toy for rescues who lack confidence

The Clam is a dog treat ball with a difference. This interactive dog toy is shaped like a ball with a clever opening for hiding treats inside. 

It’s a great pick for building confidence with a new rescue as you can play at a distance and gradually increase the intensity at your dog’s pace.

Use The Clam for calming scentwork games such as find it and hide and seek, to play fetch, to teach recall, and to desensitise your dog to sudden noises. 

Learn 5 fun ways to use this magical dog treat ball here. 

Best dog toy for rescues who love to chase

The Sheepskin chaser is our most popular chaser toy for a reason. The fluffy bite area is made from responsibly sourced sheepskin, which is simply magnetic for dogs who love to chase. 

Our chaser toys are brilliant for play at a distance too. Their long handles allow you to wiggle them like prey – encouraging your dog to pounce and get tuggy. 

Best dog toy for small rescue dogs

The bright fauxtastic tuggy goes down a storm with small dogs. It’s perfectly sized for little jaws, and has a foam padded bungee handle that’s insanely durable. 

The synthetic faux fur is really tough, so it’s brilliant for dogs who love to shred - terriers, we’re looking at you! 

Best dog toy for rescues with a ball obsession

This might be the toughest dog ball toy yet! Our non-toxic rubber powerball teams up with synthetic faux fur and a double webbed bungee handle to provide hours upon hours of fetch, tug, and retrieve!

This doubles as a great dog toy for introducing ball obsessed dogs to the joys of tug of war! Combining your dog’s passion for fetch with a new obsession is almost guaranteed!

Learn more about weaning your dog off their ball obsession here. 

Best dog toy for strong rescues

The Big Twizzler is our top recommendation for strong dogs who love tug of war. It has the length of a chaser toy so you can reap all the benefits of prey based play, with added durability to handle your dog’s enthusiasm. 

Equipped with a shock-absorbing bungee handle, the Big Twizzler protects your joints and shoulder, while reducing impact on your dog’s neck and spine during play. 

Help your rescue dog build confidence

To help your rescue dog build confidence and enjoy play, you can start by:

• Introducing your dog to new toys and games
• Being a good play partner, wiggle the toy like prey and make it interesting
• Positively reinforce good choices - reward your dog with treats or praise when they initiate play
• Be patient, not all dogs play the same way, some need more time to warm up to new things
• Experiment and find out what floats your dog’s boat

The transition to a new home can be overwhelming for both you and your new pup, but with patience and understanding, it doesn't have to be! We’re here to help you every step of the way as you settle your rescue dog in.

Read Next:

How to help your rescue dog settle into their new home 

6 surprising behaviours dogs display during play

3 signs you’re pushing your dog too hard in training