How to Use a KONG for Your Dog: The Complete Beginner's Guide

May 9, 2026

What Is a KONG and Why Is It So Popular?

The KONG Classic is one of the most iconic dog toys ever made — a durable, hollow rubber toy designed to be stuffed with food and given to dogs as an enrichment activity. Dogs lick, chew, and work to extract the food inside, keeping them occupied for extended periods. It's used by dog trainers, veterinarians, and behaviorists worldwide for everything from crate training to anxiety management to slow feeding. Here's everything you need to know to use a KONG effectively.

Choosing the Right KONG Size

KONG comes in multiple sizes — choosing the right one for your dog is important:

XS/S: Puppies and very small breeds (under 15 lbs)
M: Medium breeds (15–35 lbs)
L: Large breeds (30–65 lbs)
XL: Extra large breeds (65–100 lbs)
XXL: Giant breeds (over 85 lbs)

The KONG Classic Stuffable Dog Toy for Medium Dogs is the most popular size, suitable for dogs 15–35 lbs. It's made from durable natural rubber that withstands enthusiastic chewing, has an unpredictable bounce for fetch play, and the hollow center is perfectly sized for stuffing with food.

Basic Uses for a KONG

1. Slow Feeding

Stuff your dog's regular kibble into the KONG (moistening it slightly helps pack it in) and give it at mealtime instead of a bowl. Your dog has to work to extract each piece, turning a 30-second meal into a 10–20 minute activity.

2. Crate Training

A stuffed KONG given when your dog enters their crate creates a positive association with the crate. Your dog is too busy working on the KONG to be anxious about being confined. This is one of the most recommended crate training tools by professional trainers.

3. Separation Anxiety Management

Give your dog a stuffed KONG right before you leave the house. The engaging activity helps bridge the transition from your presence to your absence, reducing anxiety during departures.

4. Boredom Prevention

A stuffed KONG keeps dogs occupied for extended periods — ideal for rainy days, recovery from surgery, or any time your dog needs to be calm and occupied.

5. Fetch and Play

The KONG's irregular shape gives it an unpredictable bounce, making it an engaging fetch toy even without stuffing. The durable rubber withstands enthusiastic chewing and outdoor use.

How to Stuff a KONG (Basic Method)

Block the small hole at the top with a small piece of treat or peanut butter (xylitol-free)
Fill the KONG with your dog's regular kibble
Seal the large opening with peanut butter, cream cheese, or KONG Treat Spiral Stick stuffing
Give to your dog immediately or freeze for a longer-lasting challenge

Freezing Your KONG

Freezing a stuffed KONG is a game-changer. A frozen KONG lasts 3–5x longer than a room-temperature one, making it ideal for extended crate time, hot days, or dogs that need maximum occupation. Prepare several KONGs at once and store them in the freezer — you'll always have one ready.

Cleaning Your KONG

KONGs are dishwasher-safe (top rack) — the easiest cleaning method. For hand washing, soak in warm soapy water and use a bottle brush to reach inside the hollow center. Clean after every use to prevent bacterial growth from food residue.

Safety Tips

Always choose the correct size — a KONG that's too small is a choking hazard
Supervise your dog with a KONG initially to ensure they're using it safely
Never use xylitol-containing peanut butter — xylitol is toxic to dogs. Check the label.
Replace KONGs that show significant wear or cracking
For aggressive chewers, consider the KONG Extreme (black) which is made from tougher rubber

Final Thoughts

The KONG Classic is one of the most versatile, effective dog enrichment tools available. Whether you use it for slow feeding, crate training, anxiety management, or boredom prevention, it delivers consistent results. Start with the right size, learn to stuff it well, and freeze it for maximum engagement — your dog will love it.

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