Let’s be honest. We love our dogs like family. And if you’re anything like me, you probably spend more time choosing their toys than you do choosing an outfit. But have you ever walked into a stylish, modern home, only to see a pile of garish, bright orange rubber bones and neon plush ducks scattered across the beautiful rug? It can ruin the vibe.
That’s where a new, fascinating trend comes in. Rare Beauty, the makeup brand loved for its chic packaging and inclusive message, has inspired a wave of dog toys that look like they came straight from its collection. We’re talking soft, muted pinks, elegant nudes, and chic, minimalist designs.
Also Read: Decoding the Scientific Genius Behind YSE Beauty’s Formulas
But are these stylish toys just a pretty face? Or are they the ultimate gift for the design-conscious dog owner? Let’s dig in and find out.
What Exactly Are “Rare Beauty” Dog Toys? The Aesthetic Pet Trend Explained
First things first, let’s clear something up. Rare Beauty, the brand founded by Selena Gomez, does not officially make dog toys (at least, not yet!). The term “Rare Beauty Dog Toys” has become a popular nickname for a whole new category of pet products. These are toys created by other companies that have taken their style cues directly from the world of high-end, aesthetic-focused beauty brands.
Think about it: the muted “millennial pink,” the soft-touch matte finishes, the elegant, Insta-worthy shapes. These toys are designed to look beautiful sitting on your shelf, not just be functional for your pup. They answer the question: Why can’t my dog’s things be as stylish as my home decor? This is part of a larger movement often called “Pet Humanization,” where we treat our pets as full-fledged family members with tastes that reflect our own. You can learn more about this consumer trend from this BBC article on the pet humanisation boom.
The Big Question: Are They Just for Show, or Do Dogs Actually Like Them?
This is the most important part. A toy can be the most beautiful object in the world, but if your dog turns their nose up at it, it’s just a paperweight. The good news is that many brands creating these aesthetic toys are putting function first. They understand that a toy must satisfy a dog’s natural instincts to be successful.
Also Read: A Deep Dive into the Beauty of Joseon Tinted Sunscreen’s Formula
What Makes a Good Toy for a Dog? A Canine Behaviour Primer
Before we judge the “Rare Beauty” style toys, let’s remember what dogs need, which is rooted in their natural behaviours:
- Chewers need durable, textured toys for their jaws and dental health. The People’s Dispensary for Sick Animals (PDSA) has excellent advice on safe chewing.
- Fetch lovers need toys that are easy to pick up, throw, and that are highly visible to them. It’s worth noting that a dog’s colour vision is different from ours, so while we love muted tones, they might prefer a different contrast.
- Cuddlers need soft, plush toys for comfort and carrying around.
- Puzzle solvers need toys that can hide treats and challenge their minds, which is great for mental stimulation.
The best “aesthetic” toy brands design their products with these needs in mind. They use safe, non-toxic materials and incorporate engaging elements. So, while the colour is a soft blush pink, the shape might be a perfectly chunky bone, ideal for a strong chewer. The toy looks beautiful to you, but to your dog, it’s a satisfying, engaging plaything.
Also Read: A Deep Dive into Modern Chinese Beauty Standards
The Ultimate Gift for the “Dog Mum” or “Dog Dad”
Let’s talk about why these toys make such a fantastic gift. We’ve all bought the standard bag of boring toys from the pet superstore. It’s functional, but it’s not exactly thoughtful.
Gifting a beautifully designed dog toy shows you get the recipient. It says, “I know you love your dog, and I also respect your personal style.” It’s the perfect gift for:
- The friend who has a perfectly curated Instagram feed.
- The new puppy parent who wants everything to be perfect.
- The person who truly sees their dog as their furry child.
It’s a gift that acknowledges both the owner’s taste and their deep love for their pet. It’s a two-in-one present that brings joy to both the human and the hound. For more unique gift ideas for pet parents, the UK dog charity Battersea has a great gift guide that supports a good cause.
Top Brands Leading the “Paws and Palettes” Trend
While many companies are jumping on this trend, a few are really standing out with a focus on both design and ethics. Here are some brands to know:
1. Beco Pets
Beco is a superstar in the world of eco-chic pet products. Their toys are made from recycled plastic bottles and natural rubber, and they come in beautiful, earthy colours. Their signature is a soft, speckled pattern that looks incredibly stylish. They have everything from tough chew toys to plush teddies, all with sustainability at their heart. You can browse their range on their official Beco Pets website.
2. West Paw
West Paw is famous for its incredibly durable, chewer-friendly toys made in the USA. Their Zogoflex line is legendary for its toughness, and they offer many of their designs in modern, muted colours like seafoam green and lavender. They also have a great recycling programme called “Join the Loop,” which adds to their appeal.
3. Harry Barker
If you’re after classic, preppy style, Harry Barker is your go-to. Their toys often feature stylish patterns like ticking stripes and gingham, in a sophisticated colour palette. They feel timeless and elegant. You can often find their collections on Not On The High Street, a hub for unique gifts.
4. Fable Pets
Fable Pets is all about creating a seamless, beautiful life with your dog. Their toys are designed to be aesthetically pleasing and highly functional. Think minimalist rope toys in neutral tones and elegant, natural rubber rings. Check out their philosophy on their Fable Pets homepage.
The Practical Pros and Cons: A Realistic Look
Let’s break down the good and the not-so-good.
The Pros (The “Paw-sitives”)
- They Look Beautiful: They won’t clash with your home decor.
- High-Quality Materials: Many brands prioritise non-toxic, sustainable, and durable materials.
- The “Feel-Good” Factor: Giving your dog something beautiful can deepen the bond.
- Great for Gifting: They are a uniquely thoughtful and modern gift.
The Cons (The “Paw-blems”)
- The Price Tag: You pay more for design and sustainable materials.
- Durability Varies: A gorgeous toy might not stand up to a power chewer.
- The “Style Over Substance” Risk: Cheaper imitations may fall apart quickly.
How to Choose the RIGHT Stylish Toy for YOUR Dog
Don’t just pick the prettiest one! Follow this simple guide:
- Know Your Dog’s Chew Style: Is your dog a gentle mouthier or a powerful destroyer? For heavy chewers, look for brands like West Paw.
- Check the Materials: Look for natural rubber, tough canvas, and food-grade silicone. The RSPCA’s guide to dog toys is a fantastic resource for safety.
- Think About Play Style: Does your dog love fetch, cuddles, or puzzles?
- Read the Reviews: Other dog owners will give you the honest truth.
The Verdict: Are They Worth the Hype?
So, after all this, are Rare Beauty-style dog toys the ultimate gift?
Yes, but with one important condition.
They are the ultimate gift if you choose a well-made toy from a reputable brand that suits the specific dog’s needs.
If you buy a flimsy, poorly made toy just because it’s a pretty colour, then no, it’s not a good gift. It will end up in the bin, and the dog will be disappointed.
But if you do your research and select a beautiful, durable, and engaging toy from a brand like Beco or West Paw, then you are giving something truly special. You’re giving a gift that brings daily joy, looks beautiful in the home, and shows a deep level of care and thoughtfulness.
It’s a gift that says, “I see you, I see your fabulous dog, and I think you both deserve something wonderful.”
And in a world full of bright, ugly rubber chickens, that’s a truly rare and beautiful thing.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Does Rare Beauty, the makeup brand, actually make these dog toys?
No, and this is a crucial distinction. The makeup brand Rare Beauty by Selena Gomez does not manufacture pet products. The term “Rare Beauty Dog Toys” is a popular nickname that has emerged to describe a specific trend in the pet industry. It refers to toys created by other companies that deliberately mimic the chic, minimalist, and soft-coloured aesthetic of high-end beauty brands like Rare Beauty, Glossier, and Charlotte Tilbury. It’s a style category, not an official product line.
2. My dog is a heavy chewer. Can these aesthetically pleasing toys withstand serious play?
This depends entirely on the specific brand and product you choose. Many brands in this space, like West Paw, design their toys with durability in mind, using materials like tough, non-toxic Zogoflex® rubber that can withstand aggressive chewing. However, some brands may prioritise plush materials for a softer, cuddlier feel, which would not be suitable for a power chewer. Always check the product description for the intended “chew strength” and look for toys explicitly marketed as for “tough” or “powerful” chewers. The aesthetic doesn’t guarantee the durability; the material does.
3. Are the materials used in these stylish toys safe and non-toxic?
Reputable brands in this niche, such as Beco Pets and West Paw, pride themselves on using high-quality, non-toxic, and often sustainable materials like natural rubber, recycled plastics, and food-grade silicone. However, the responsibility falls on the consumer to research. Always look for brands that are transparent about their materials and manufacturing processes. Be wary of cheap imitations from unknown brands, as they may not adhere to the same safety standards. Checking for certifications or detailed material lists on the company’s website is the best practice.
4. Where is the best place to buy these toys in the UK?
UK-based pet parents have several excellent options. Major online retailers like Amazon UK and ZooPlus often carry brands like Beco Pets. For a more curated experience, boutique online pet stores and platforms like Not On The High Street frequently stock stylish pet products from brands like Harry Barker. Additionally, you can often purchase directly from the brand’s own website (e.g., BecoPets.com), which may ship to the UK.
5. Why are these toys more expensive than standard ones from a pet shop?
The higher price point reflects several factors: the use of premium, often eco-friendly and sustainably sourced materials; more sophisticated and design-focused manufacturing processes; and the brand’s investment in ethical practices and durability. You are not just paying for a toy; you are paying for a design object, higher safety standards, and a longer product lifespan, which can offer better value over time compared to a cheap toy that breaks quickly.
6. My dog doesn’t care about aesthetics. Is there any functional benefit for him?
You are absolutely right—a dog’s primary concern is function, not fashion. The functional benefit for your dog comes from the quality of the design. Many of these brands excel at creating toys that are highly engaging: they may have unique textures for chewing, are perfectly weighted for fetching, or have clever internal compartments for treats that provide excellent mental stimulation. The aesthetic is a bonus for you, but the well-thought-out design and high-quality materials are the real benefits for your pet.
7. What should I look for to avoid “style over substance” when shopping?
To avoid this pitfall, follow a simple checklist:
- Read Reviews: Focus on reviews from owners with dogs of a similar size and chew style.
- Investigate the Brand: Choose established brands known for quality, not just trendy Instagram aesthetics.
- Check the Fine Print: Look for information on material composition, durability guarantees, and intended use.
- Prioritise Function: Match the toy type (chew, fetch, plush, puzzle) to your dog’s specific play preferences first, and then find a stylish option that fits that function.
8. Are there any ethical or sustainable brands in this category?
Yes, this is a significant strength of many brands in this trend. Beco Pets is a leader in this area, making toys from recycled plastic bottles and using sustainable bamboo and rice husk. West Paw has a robust recycling program and uses safe, recyclable materials. By choosing these brands, you’re often making a more environmentally conscious choice compared to buying mass-produced, non-recyclable toys, aligning your pet’s lifestyle with your own values.
9. Can these toys help with a dog’s dental health?
Some can, but it’s not a universal feature. The toys made from textured natural rubber or silicone (like many from West Paw) can help scrape away plaque and tartar as the dog chews, similar to more traditional dental chews. However, soft plush toys will not provide this benefit. If dental health is a priority, look specifically for toys within this aesthetic range that are marketed as supporting dental hygiene through their material and texture.
10. They seem like a great gift, but what if I get the wrong type for the dog?
This is a common concern. The safest bet is to choose a versatile toy. A durable, medium-strength rubber ball or a classic rope toy in a stylish colour from a brand like West Paw or Beco is often a winner for most play styles. Alternatively, you could gift the toy as part of a “gift experience”—pairing it with a bag of treats and a gift receipt from the retailer. This shows thoughtfulness for both the owner’s style and the practical needs of the dog, ensuring the gift will be appreciated and used.
