Choosing the Right Toys for Your Dog

Given the wide array of dog toys available out there, how do you choose the right one for your dog? There are a number of factors that you have to keep in mind when shopping for toys for your dog. But the most important consideration should always be the safety of your dog. The first thing to remember is that safe dog toys are those that your dog can safely play with even when you are not watching. When it comes to choosing the right toys for your dogs, safety can depend on many considerations, including your dog’s activity level, size, and playing style.

Dog toys should primarily be suited to the size of your dog. Small toys can be easily swallowed by big dogs. On the other hand, small dogs will not be able to enjoy playing with smaller toys. It is also advisable to regularly check dog toys for breaks and fissures so you can throw them away before they break into pieces that can be easily swallowed. Some pet owners give children’s toys to their dogs. This is normally safe, as long as the toy label says it is safe for kids under three years old and does not have any dangerous or poisonous fillings. When you are giving soft toys like stuffed dolls and balls, however, make sure that you only give those that are sturdier. Remember that dogs are more destructive than children.

Veterinarians also recommend active toys such as those that are made of hard rubber. These toys come in different shapes and sizes. Dogs especially enjoy chewing them or playing fetch and catch with these types of dog toys, or simply biting on them and dragging them around. Examples of active toys are rope toys and chewable tennis balls.

There are also those that are called distraction toys such as Kong or busy-box type toys. Kongs are usually filled with treats and peanut butter that dogs slowly bite into. These rewarding toys can keep dogs occupied for long stretches of time. Busy-box toys, on the other hand, are big boxes or cubes fitted with nooks and crannies that hold treats. To get to these treats, the dog has to turn the box around using his mouth, nose and paws.

Comfort toys are also recommended for dogs for many purposes, although some dogs do not enjoy them. Some dogs especially life small stuffed toys that they can carry around. The more aggressive breeds love stuffed toys that they can shake and play actively with. For this purpose, choose soft dog toys that are as big as their usual preys. Otherwise, safe household items like an old shirt or a towel can work just as well.

You can also rotate the toys by giving only four to five toys per week to your dog. Make sure to have a variety of toys out—one that your dog can carry around, one that it can tear apart, one to roll around with and another one to get busy with.