This dog toy hides a wild story involving Volkswagen, a mechanic, and an old ‘70s VW Combi!
It’s one of the most famous dog toys in the world. Yet few people know it was born in a garage, thanks to an overly playful dog… and a Volkswagen part. Today, this iconic toy is back in the spotlight thanks to a touching and unexpected collaboration between KONG, Volkswagen, and a U.S. charity. Yes, it’s a dog toy—but not just any dog toy.
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A garage, a dog, and a Volkswagen part
The story begins in Denver in the 1970s. Joe Markham is a mechanic, and his dog Fritz, a German Shepherd, has a habit of testing the durability of everything he can chew. Toys, tools, chunks of metal—nothing is safe. Until one day, Fritz gets his teeth on something unusual: a rubber suspension bump stop from an old Volkswagen Type 2 Bus. And like magic—he loves it, but can’t destroy it. Joe sees major potential. He spends the next six years refining the shape and material to create a toy that’s durable, bouncy, and safe for dogs’ teeth. In 1976, the very first KONG is launched. That small red snowman-shaped rubber toy becomes a classic in the dog world. All thanks to an old VW Bus part.
A nod to the ID. Buzz—and a good cause too
Nearly 50 years later, Volkswagen decides to honor this unlikely story. To celebrate National Puppy Day in the U.S., the brand teams up with KONG and VCA Charities to release a special edition of the toy—this time inspired by the ID. Buzz, the all-electric van that brings the VW Bus into a new era. The toy keeps the original KONG shape but comes in a bold new “Cabana Blue” color and special VW-branded packaging. It sells for $13.99, with a small shipping fee. But the real story is what’s behind it: for every toy sold, another is donated to a dog shelter. And 100% of the profits go to a charity that supports animals waiting to be adopted. The toy is a limited edition and available to order online. It’s a great excuse to treat your pup.
A symbolic Volkswagen dog toy
This quirky little toy is more than just a product. It perfectly captures what Volkswagen represents for many people: a brand that’s been part of generations of drivers, families… and dogs. In a van, on vacation, at the campsite—VW vehicles are literal story machines. By tapping into nostalgia and generosity, this campaign hits the right notes. It’s not trying to sell a new model or tech feature—it’s sharing a sincere anecdote, one any dog owner (or old car lover) can relate to. And the nod to the ID. Buzz shows that even as the brand moves to electric, the spirit is still there. Volkswagen isn’t the only brand betting on emotion, but here, the link to the past feels more genuine than usual. And you have to admit—the idea of turning a car part into a cult chew toy is enough to make anyone smile.
This article explores how a simple VW part became a legendary dog toy, and how that story is now being revived through a partnership between KONG, Volkswagen, and a nonprofit. By blending nostalgia, garage vibes, and a good cause, the campaign connects with car lovers, dog people, and fans of feel-good stories alike. It’s the kind of unexpected project that just makes you smile.
Source: https://drivergear.vw.com/vw-retail/Kong/p-DRG-VWXKONG
