Have you ever handed your dog a plush toy only to watch it explode into a cloud of fluff within minutes? If so, you’ve probably wondered what exactly is inside those soft toys — and whether it’s safe for your pup.
Most stuffed dog toys aren’t very different from stuffed toys made for people — they’re usually packed with a material called polyester fiber fill. Polyester is a type of plastic that’s been spun into soft strands and then used as stuffing to give toys their shape and softness.
When used in toys, polyester fiber fill is generally considered safe as long as your dog does not ingest it. But once your dog rips the toy open and starts eating or chewing on the stuffing, it can pose a choking hazard or even cause gastrointestinal problems if swallowed.
Thankfully, not all dog toy stuffing is the same. There are a few variations — some that are a bit more natural, and others that are engineered for durability and safety. Let’s break down the most common types:
Common Stuffing Materials in Dog Toys
1. Polyester Fiberfill (Most Common)
This is by far the most popular type of stuffing in plush dog toys — lightweight, soft, and inexpensive to produce. It helps toys hold their shape and feel fluffy.
Pros: Soft, lightweight, hypoallergenic
Cons: Not digestible — can cause issues if swallowed in large amounts
Even though polyester fiberfill is considered safe for toy use, once it comes out of the toy and your dog starts munching on it, it’s best to discard the material to avoid possible digestive trouble.
2. Natural Fibers (Cotton or Corn Fiber)
Some toys use more organic stuffing materials like cotton or corn-based fibers. These are often marketed as a more natural alternative to synthetic stuffing.
Pros: May feel more “natural” to owners
Cons: Still not intended for ingestion and can pose a choking risk
Natural fillers can be a little softer and lighter, but they still shouldn’t be eaten or inhaled — especially if your dog is an aggressive chewer.
3. Foam, Shredded Materials & Pellets
Some toys combine fiberfill with shredded foam pieces or plastic pellets to add texture or weight.
Pros: Can make toys more interesting for play
Cons: Any small pieces released from the toy can be a choking hazard
These variations are common in toys designed for interactive play or sound effects (like squeakers), but they’re still not meant to be eaten and should be disposed of if exposed.
Which Toys Have Stuffing?
Plush Toys
Plushes are soft, fluffy toys (due to the aforementioned polyester) that dogs often love to chew on and tear apart. If you have a dog who enjoys a good shred, look no further than a high-quality plush toy like BARK mainstays “ Bruce the Bungee Bear ,” “ Chompin Charlie ,” or “ Chester’s Nuts .”
Tug Toys
It’s all in the name! Tug toys are for doggos who love a good game of tug o’ war with their humans or dog friends. And most tug toys contain a plushy element that dogs can shred as well. Don’t know exactly what kind of tug toy your canine pal might be into? Check out “ Bruno Branches Out ,” the “ Hide-N-Go-Zeke ” Tugimal, or the “ Tea Bea ” Tug Bug for starters.
Spiky Core Ball Toys
Spiky Core Balls Toys are a great gift for dogs who love shredding their toys and playing with squeaky balls. Toys like “ Monsieur Acorn ,” “ Consuela the Cactus ,” or “ Penny the Pineapple ” can be squeaked and played with long after they’ve shed their plushy exterior. It’s a classic doggy twofer.
Which Toys Don’t Have Stuffing?
Super Chewer Toys
Maybe you’d rather your dog not rip their toys to shreds. If that’s the case, check out a classic rubber Super Chewer Toy like “ Llana the Iguana ” or something nylon like the peanut-butter-infused Benebone .
Choose a Monthly Box of Stuffing-inclusive or Stuffing-less Fun
If you like your dog’s toys filled with stuffing, considering subscribing to the classic version of the BarkBox . You’ll get 2 stuffing-filled toys, 2 bags of treats, and an all-natural meaty chew delivered to you every month.
Or if you’d rather have some stuffing-less toys, upgrade to the Super Chewer version of the BarkBox . For just a few dollars extra, the toys are super-durable and you’ll get 2 meaty chews instead of one.
Dog joy delivered every month!
Are Stuffed Toys Safe?
Soft toys with stuffing can be fun and comforting for dogs who like to cuddle or gently chew. But if your dog is a powerful chewer, plush toys (and their stuffing) can end up becoming a safety concern.
When stuffing becomes exposed:
It can be inhaled
It can lodge in the digestive tract
It can cause choking or blockage
These risks are why it’s important to match toy type with your dog’s chewing style.
FAQ
What are most stuffed dog toys filled with?
Most stuffed dog toys are filled with polyester fiberfill, a soft, lightweight synthetic material that helps toys keep their shape and feel plush.
Is the stuffing inside dog toys safe for dogs?
Dog toy stuffing is generally safe as it's not swallowed. If stuffing is exposed and swallowed, it can pose a choking risk or cause digestive issues.
What happens if my dog eats toy stuffing?
If your dog swallows a small amount of stuffing, they may pass it without issue. Larger amounts can cause vomiting, constipation, or intestinal blockages. Contact your vet if your dog shows symptoms or eats a lot of stuffing.
Are there dog toys made without stuffing?
Yes. Many dog toys are completely stuffing-free, including rubber chew toys, nylon bones, and reinforced plush toys designed without fiberfill.
Should aggressive chewers have stuffed toys?
Aggressive chewers are usually better suited to durable, stuffing-free toys. Plush toys with stuffing are best for dogs who enjoy gentle chewing or carrying toys around.
When should I throw away a stuffed dog toy?
You should replace a stuffed toy as soon as the stuffing becomes exposed, seams rip open, or pieces start coming loose.
