Welcome to WeLovePetz, your number one source for all things pets.
The Icon Returns: Why Dogs Are Obsessed with Shari Lewis’s Lamb
If you grew up in the 90s, you know Lamb Chop. But somehow, this puppet from a children’s TV show has found a second life as the most popular dog toy in America. Walk into any dog park, and someone is talking about how their dog carries “Lamby” everywhere.
The Multipet Lamb Chop Plush Toy (6-inch Mini) is undeniably cute. It features the classic red knitted paws and sleepy eyelashes. But let’s be real: dog toys aren’t just for looking at. They are for chewing, thrashing, and drooling on.
Is this plush toy just a nostalgic cash grab for humans, or does it actually hold up as a dog toy? We analyze the stitching, the stuffing density, and the “squeak factor” to see if Lamb Chop deserves a spot in your toy bin.
Design and Material Quality
This is a soft plush toy, not a rubber KONG. Understanding its construction helps manage expectations regarding durability.
1. The Ultra-Soft Exterior
The exterior is made of a very soft, textured polyester that mimics sheep’s wool. It is incredibly tactile. This texture seems to be the secret sauce—dogs love mouthing it. Unlike smooth fabric toys, the nubby texture holds scent and feels comforting, making it a top choice for dogs with anxiety or those who need a “security blanket.”
2. Squeaker Placement
The 6-inch mini version contains a single squeaker in the main body. It isn’t overly loud or piercing, which is a blessing for owners. However, because it’s small, a determined chewer can puncture the squeaker relatively quickly, turning it into a silent toy.
3. Size Matters (The 6-Inch Mini)
This review is specifically for the 6-inch Mini version. This is small. It fits in the palm of your hand.
– Great for: Yorkies, Chihuahuas, Puppies, and Cats.
– Bad for: Labs, Goldens, or any dog over 20 lbs. A large dog could swallow this whole. Make sure you buy the size appropriate for your dog’s mouth.
Hands-On Experience: The Destruction Test
We gave this to a gentle chewer (Cavalier King Charles Spaniel) and a destroyer (Jack Russell Terrier).
The Cuddler’s Perspective
For the gentle dog, this toy was an instant hit. The shape—essentially a long cylinder with limbs—makes it easy for small mouths to carry. The dog treated it like a baby, sleeping with it and gently squeaking it. In this scenario, the toy lasted months with zero damage.
The Destroyer’s Perspective
For the terrier, Lamb Chop lasted about 12 minutes. The seams are standard plush stitching, not reinforced “tuff” stitching. The ears and paws are weak points that were ripped off first. Once the stuffing is exposed, it’s game over. If your dog guts toys, this is not for you. It is a comfort toy, not a durable chew toy.
Safety Check
The eyes are embroidered (good!), so there are no hard plastic eyes to swallow. However, the red paws are knit fabric that can unravel into string if chewed excessively. Always supervise play.
Detail Gallery
Pros & Cons
| ✅ The Good | ❌ The Bad |
|---|---|
| High Comfort: The soft texture makes it the ultimate “baby” for dogs who like to cuddle toys. | Low Durability: Not reinforced. A shaker or shredder will destroy this in minutes. |
| Perfect for Small Mouths: The mini 6″ size is lightweight and easy for tiny breeds to carry. | Choking Hazard (Size): Too small for medium/large dogs; buy the 10″ or 24″ version instead. |
| Nostalgia Factor: It’s adorable and makes for great social media photos. | Squeaker Weakness: The squeaker is easily punctured by sharp puppy teeth. |
| Affordable: Usually priced very low, making it a low-risk purchase. | Stuffing Mess: Filled with poly-fill that will explode like a snowstorm if ripped. |
How It Compares
| Feature | Lamb Chop Mini (This Review) | KONG Cozie | GoDog Chew Guard |
|---|---|---|---|
| Material | ☁️ Super Soft Plush | 🛡️ Reinforced Plush | 🛡️ Mesh-Lined Plush |
| Durability | 📉 Low (Cuddle Only) | ⚖️ Medium | 📈 High (Tough) |
| Size | 📏 Tiny (6″) | 📏 Medium | 📏 Varied |
| Appeal | ❤️ High (Texture) | 😊 Moderate | 😊 Moderate |
| Price | 💰 Cheap | 💰 Mid-Range | 💰 Mid-Range |
Final Verdict: A Lover, Not a Fighter
The Multipet Lamb Chop Plush is iconic for a reason: dogs genuinely love the way it feels. It is the perfect “first toy” for a puppy or a comfort object for a gentle senior. However, you must know your dog. If you buy this for a Golden Retriever, it will be gone in 60 seconds.
Who is this for?
- Toy Breeds: The size and weight are perfect for dogs under 10 lbs.
- The “Carrier”: Dogs who just like to hold a toy in their mouth while greeting you.
- Puppies: Soft enough for sleeping and gentle teething play.
Who should skip it?
- The “Shredder”: If your dog’s goal is to remove stuffing, save your money.
- Large Breeds: This 6-inch version is a serious choking hazard. Size up to the Jumbo version.
