KONG Classic Dog Toy Wins
Winner
KONG Classic red rubber dog toy medium

KONG Classic Dog Toy

9.4

All dog owners — the gold standard chew toy that doubles as a treat dispenser

VS
Outward Hound Hide-A-Squirrel plush puzzle dog toy

Outward Hound Hide-A-Squirrel Plush Puzzle Toy

7.0

Dogs who love foraging and owners looking for interactive puzzle play

David Nakamura
David Nakamura

Score Comparison

Criteria
KONG Classic Dog Toy
Outward Hound Hide-A-Squirrel Plush Puzzle Toy
Overall Score
9.4
7.0
Durability
9.5
5.0
Safety & Materials
9.5
7.5
Enrichment Value
9.0
9.0
Construction Quality
9.5
6.5
Size Versatility
9.5
8.0
Ease of Cleaning
9.0
6.5
Value
9.5
8.0

Pricing & Features

Specification
KONG Classic Dog Toy
Outward Hound Hide-A-Squirrel Plush Puzzle Toy
Price
$12.99
$14.99

Making Your Decision

KONG Classic Dog Toy logo

When to Choose KONG Classic Dog Toy

All dog owners — the gold standard chew toy that doubles as a treat dispenser

The KONG Classic is the most versatile dog toy ever made — and that is not hyperbole. Its natural rubber construction survives power chewers, the fillable center turns it into a puzzle toy, and it comes in every size imaginable. At under $13, the price-to-durability ratio is unmatched. Every dog should own one.

Strengths

  • Nearly indestructible natural rubber withstands even power chewers
  • Fillable center provides hours of enrichment with treats, peanut butter, or kibble
  • Available in six sizes from XS to XXL to fit any dog breed

Limitations

  • Plain design may not excite dogs who prefer interactive or plush toys
  • Unfilled KONG bounces unpredictably — not ideal for structured fetch
  • Red classic version may stain light-colored carpets when stuffed
Outward Hound Hide-A-Squirrel Plush Puzzle Toy logo

When to Choose Outward Hound Hide-A-Squirrel Plush Puzzle Toy

Dogs who love foraging and owners looking for interactive puzzle play

The Hide-A-Squirrel is one of the most engaging enrichment toys available — the hide-and-seek mechanic taps into dogs' natural foraging instincts, and the squeaky squirrels sustain interest across multiple play sessions. Durability is the main weakness, making this best suited for supervised play. The availability of replacement squirrels is a smart touch that extends overall value.

Strengths

  • Hide-and-seek concept with squeaky squirrels in a plush tree trunk engages natural foraging instincts
  • Multiple sizes available with varying numbers of squirrels (junior, large, jumbo, ginormous)
  • Replacement squirrels sold separately — extends the toy's lifespan

Limitations

  • Plush squirrels and trunk are not durable against moderate to heavy chewers
  • Squeakers in squirrels can fail after repeated use and washing
  • Stuffing in trunk can be pulled out by determined dogs

Ready to Get Started?

KONG Classic red rubber dog toy medium

KONG Classic Dog Toy

Score: 9.4
Outward Hound Hide-A-Squirrel plush puzzle dog toy

Outward Hound Hide-A-Squirrel Plush Puzzle Toy

Score: 7.0