A ring is easier for a dog to catch than a ball and kinder to the teeth than a hard disc. There is a rim to bite on from any angle, a hole for a hand or a mouth to grab hold of, and enough flex that a mistimed catch bends the toy instead of jarring a jaw. That combination is why a foam ring tends to stay in the walking bag long after other toys have been abandoned in the park.

This one is moulded from TPR foam, which is soft under the teeth but springs back rather than crushing flat, and the surface is textured so it does not squirt out of a wet mouth. It floats, which means it still works for river and beach retrieves where a ball sinks and the game ends. It is also pliable enough to fold into a coat pocket, and that matters when you are already carrying a lead and a bag of treats.

• Moulded TPR foam ring, roughly 18.5cm across
• Textured surface for grip in a wet mouth
• Floats, for river and beach retrieves
• Four colours: green, orange, red and yellow
• Doubles as a tug handle and a throw toy
• Folds down small enough for a pocket

Not a chew toy. Foam this soft is made for catching and tugging, and a dog left alone with it will chew lumps off within an afternoon, so take it in at the end of the game. Worth adding that repeated high leaping catches are hard on a dog's joints and spine. Roll it along the ground or throw it low, particularly for young dogs whose growth plates have not yet closed.

Who it's for: Dogs who fetch and tug, owners who walk near water, and anyone who wants one toy that covers both games.