Most dogs are naturally playful. They like romping, munching, and even some traditional fetching. Various dog toys are designed to provide varying levels of mental and physical activity. The problem is, how do you choose the right one?
In this article, we’ll provide the best tips when choosing the right dog toys!
4 Tips on How to Choose the Right Dog Toys
When you have to leave your dog at home, toys help keep them entertained and give comfort when they are worried. The following are the best tips for selecting the best dog toys.
Choose Toys that are Safe
When choosing the best toys for your dog, safety should always come first. Think of your dog like a human toddler. What can human toddlers not play with? For instance, toys with little parts that can be quickly swallowed aren’t rated for toddlers, so you shouldn’t give them to your dog either.
Here are some guidelines from the Humane Society:
- Avoid toys that aren’t labeled “dog-proof.”
- Always remove toys when they’re beginning to fall apart.
- Examine the labeling on stuffed animals to ensure that they are safe for children under the age of three.
- Machine washing is advised for soft toys.
Choose Toys that Provide Mental Stimulation
Dogs require mental stimulation in addition to physical activity to stay healthy and happy. It might be challenging to select a dog toy that will both entertain and challenge your dog. The pet business is broad, and new items are released on a daily basis.
Search for types of dog toys that stimulate the mind, such as puzzle toys or toys that dispense rewards. These kinds of toys might help your dog stay cognitively occupied and avoid boredom.
Choose The Perfect Size
While selecting a dog toy, keep your dog’s size in mind. For example, if your dog is pretty big, like a St. Bernard or a mastiff, the dogs should be long-lasting and can survive their powerful teeth.
If you have a small dog breed, such as a shih tzu or a mini pinscher, you should get smaller toys that are easier for them to hold and play with.
Of course, toys that are too small can be ingested or become stuck in your dog’s throat, so it should still be size appropriate.
Consider Your Lifestyle
The types of toys you pick for your dog might also be influenced by your lifestyle. If you live an active lifestyle and love spending time outside with your dog, toys meant for outdoor play, such as disks and balls, may be a good choice.
If you work long hours and your dog has been left alone a lot, puzzle toys might help keep them occupied and mentally active while you’re gone.
Provide your dog toys with multiple functions, such as one for carrying, one for shaking, one for rolling, and one for comfort.
Choosing the Right Dog Toys
We all want our pets to be safe and happy. When it comes to toys, this involves selecting the best quality that appeals to their distinct personalities.
To stay on the safe side, always remove any toys that appear to be in poor condition. Keep in mind that a broken toy might pose a choking hazard, so make sure you discard them immediately.
For more tips on dog care, check out the PetFitness blog!
