A ring is the most useful shape in a toy box for dogs who like a proper game of tug. Both of you can get a full grip on opposite sides, there is no small end to swallow, and it flies flat and far when thrown, so one throw covers ground that a ball would need three of. This one carries the red paw print across a flat circular body measuring 27.9cm across and 3.8cm thick, at 250g.

Tuffy build every toy the same way, and the method is the point. Multiple layers of material are bonded together rather than sewn as a single skin, several rows of stitching hold each seam, and webbing is laid over the seams themselves, which is where an ordinary plush toy fails first. The result stands up to serious chewers far better than a standard soft toy. It floats, so it works for water retrieves, and it is machine washable, air dried.

• Ring shape, 27.9 x 27.9cm and 3.8cm thick
• 250g
• Multiple bonded layers with several rows of stitching
• Protective webbing over the seams
• Floats for water play
• Machine washable, air dry

On toughness. Tuffy toys are tough rather than indestructible, and no soft toy is indestructible with a determined dog and enough time. Treat this as a supervised game toy, not something left in the crate overnight, and retire it once the outer layer is breached rather than waiting for stuffing to come out. Dogs who dismantle everything are safer with solid rubber.

Who it's for: Strong-jawed dogs who play tug and fetch hard, and owners tired of replacing an ordinary plush toy every fortnight.