Best Toys for English Setters

By PetEssentialist Editorial · Updated July 2026

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🏆 Quick answer

Our top pick is KONG Extreme Dog Toy — best for High-energy play and durability. Why it wins: Extremely durable for high-energy play.

English Setters are bred for high-energy activities, requiring toys that can keep up with their lively nature. With their intelligent and active minds, they need stimulation to prevent boredom and destructive behavior. When it comes to playtime, English Setters love to run, chase, and engage in interactive games, making durable and versatile toys a must. Their large size and energetic play style demand toys that are not only sturdy but also appropriately sized to avoid choking hazards. The right toys can help channel their energy, challenge their minds, and provide hours of entertainment. From puzzle toys to interactive games, the key is to find toys that cater to the English Setter's unique blend of intelligence, energy, and playfulness.

What to look for

Durability

English Setters are strong and enthusiastic players, so toys need to be highly durable to withstand their energetic play. Look for toys made from tough materials that can resist chewing and rough handling.

Size and Safety

Given their large size, English Setters require toys that are appropriately sized to prevent choking hazards. Ensure that any toy is too large to be swallowed and has no small parts that can be easily detached.

Stimulation and Challenge

To keep an English Setter engaged, toys should offer a challenge, whether through puzzle-solving, hide-and-seek, or interactive play. This mental stimulation is crucial to prevent boredom and stress.

Versatility

English Setters enjoy a variety of activities, so toys that offer multiple play options are ideal. Toys that can be used for fetch, tug-of-war, and solo play are perfect for keeping them entertained.

Ease of Cleaning

Given the English Setter's moderate shedding and high grooming needs, it's beneficial to choose toys that are easy to clean and maintain, reducing the risk of dirt and hair accumulation.

Our top picks

SponsoredHow we choose →

#	Product	Best for
1	KONG Extreme Dog Toy	High-energy play and durability
2	West Paw Zogoflex Jive Ball	Interactive fetch and water play
3	Outward Hound Nina Ottosson Dog Tornado Puzzle Toy	Mental stimulation and challenge
4	Outward Hound Hide-A-Squirrel Puzzle Plush	Interactive hide-and-seek play
5	Chuckit! Classic Ball Launcher	Long-distance fetch and interactive play

KONG Extreme Dog Toy

Best for High-energy play and durability

The KONG Extreme Dog Toy is perfect for English Setters due to its ultra-durable black natural rubber that can withstand aggressive chewers. Its hollow center can be stuffed with treats, providing mental stimulation and satisfying their instinct to chew and hunt.

✓ Extremely durable for high-energy play
✓ Hollow center for treat stuffing and mental stimulation
✓ Dishwasher safe for easy cleaning

✕ May be too heavy for indoor play without supervision

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West Paw Zogoflex Jive Ball

Best for Interactive fetch and water play

The West Paw Zogoflex Jive Ball is ideal for English Setters who love to play fetch and enjoy water activities. Its bouncy Zogoflex material is durable and non-toxic, making it perfect for energetic play.

✓ Bouncy and durable for high-energy fetch
✓ Floats in water for aquatic play
✓ Dishwasher safe for easy cleaning

✕ May not be as stimulating for solo play

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Outward Hound Nina Ottosson Dog Tornado Puzzle Toy

Best for Mental stimulation and challenge

The Nina Ottosson Dog Tornado Puzzle Toy provides the mental stimulation English Setters need, with its 3 rotating layers and treat compartments. It's a challenging and engaging toy that keeps them busy and satisfied.

✓ Highly stimulating and challenging for intelligent dogs
✓ Durable construction for long-lasting play
✓ Dishwasher safe for easy cleaning

✕ May be too complex for some dogs to figure out initially

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Outward Hound Hide-A-Squirrel Puzzle Plush

Best for Interactive hide-and-seek play

The Outward Hound Hide-A-Squirrel Puzzle Plush offers English Setters a fun and interactive way to play hide-and-seek. The squeaky squirrel plush toys and tree trunk design provide hours of entertainment and mental stimulation.

✓ Encourages interactive and problem-solving play
✓ Soft plush material for gentle play
✓ Variety of sizes for different breeds and ages

✕ Squeakers may not last long with aggressive play

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Chuckit! Classic Ball Launcher

Best for Long-distance fetch and interactive play

The Chuckit! Classic Ball Launcher is perfect for English Setters who love to play fetch. It allows for long-distance throws without the need for strenuous arm movement, making playtime more enjoyable and less straining.

✓ Launches balls up to 3 times farther than hand throwing
✓ Easy to use and reduces strain on the arm
✓ Promotes interactive play and exercise

✕ Requires compatible Chuckit! balls for optimal performance

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Frequently asked questions

What type of toys are best for English Setters?

English Setters benefit from durable, stimulating toys that cater to their high energy and intelligence, such as puzzle toys, interactive games, and fetch toys.

How often should I replace my English Setter's toys?

Toys should be replaced as soon as they show signs of wear and tear to prevent choking hazards and ensure continued stimulation and challenge for your dog.

Can English Setters play with small toys?

No, due to their large size, English Setters should only play with toys that are appropriately sized to prevent choking hazards. Small toys can be dangerous and should be avoided.

How can I keep my English Setter entertained indoors?

Providing a variety of toys that offer different types of play, such as puzzle toys, interactive games, and soft plush toys, can keep English Setters entertained indoors, especially on rainy days or when outdoor play isn't possible.

Are English Setters easy to train with toys?

Yes, English Setters are highly intelligent and responsive to training with toys. Using positive reinforcement techniques with their favorite toys can make training sessions enjoyable and effective.

For English Setter owners, the key to a happy and healthy pet is providing the right balance of physical exercise and mental stimulation. The KONG Extreme Dog Toy is an excellent choice for high-energy play, while the Nina Ottosson Dog Tornado Puzzle Toy offers challenging mental stimulation. By choosing toys that cater to their unique needs and attributes, you can ensure your English Setter leads a fulfilling and engaging life.

More for your English Setter

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Best Toys for other breeds

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