Junior in the Tuffy range means a smaller body, not a lesser build. This lobster uses the same bonded layers, multiple stitch rows and seam webbing as the full-size toys, scaled down for dogs who want something they can actually pick up and carry around the house. The long tail gives a natural handle for shaking, and enough flex for a gentle game of tug without anyone's hand ending up in the way.

What separates a Tuffy from a supermarket plush is where the strength sits. The layers are bonded rather than simply stacked, the seams carry webbing so thread is not the only thing holding the panels together, and the stitching runs in several rows instead of one. That construction floats, so it doubles as a water toy, and it survives the washing machine when it comes back off the riverbank. Air dry it rather than putting it through a tumble dryer.

• Junior size, roughly 27.4cm long and 17.8cm wide
• Bonded multi-layer body with several rows of stitching
• Protective webbing along the seams
• Floats for water fetch
• Machine washable, air dry
• Made in China

Two things worth knowing. Tough is not the same as chew-proof, so this is a toy for supervised play rather than solo demolition work, and it should come away when the game finishes.

Who it's for: Small and medium dogs, or gentler large ones, who like a soft toy to carry and want it to last rather more than a fortnight.