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As a doting owner, you probably buy your dog a toy every time you see one. But does he play with it? If you're struggling to find the perfect toy for your pup, or if you're new to the canine world, buckle up—we're off on an adventure to discover the ideal dog toy.
What makes a good toy that will keep your dog busy? What should you give a dog who loves to chew? Why do dogs love squeaky toys? Read on to find out!
You should always remember this when choosing a toy for your pup. Depending on their age and size, you can identify the right toy that will help them develop their mental abilities, their teeth, and their motivation.
Other important points: your dog's personality and favorite activities. You may have to try a few toys before finding the ones they like best.
For example, three-week-old puppies might like soft rubber or plush toys. While they're teething, between three and nine months, soft, soothing toys can provide comfort. When they come out of this phase, they are generally ready for hard rubber toys, rope toys, and balls.
Dog toys come in many shapes and textures. Some are soft and plush, others are rubbery with nubs, while still others can be completely smooth and cool. To make the right choice, pay attention to your pup's habits. How does he chew? How active is he?
A dog who loves to chew or is very muscular can quickly tear up a soft, plush toy, while a puppy might have difficulty playing with a hard rubber toy due to its small teeth. If your furry friend is a strong chewer, firm rubber toys are one of the best options.
You certainly wouldn't want to buy them a toy that won't last long, or at all! Or something that will hurt them. That's why the size of the toy is important.
Large dogs should avoid small toys so they don't swallow them and end up at the vet, at best. Also, don't touch anything that isn't tested for dogs, like ribbons or children's toys.
The type of toy your dog will like best depends on him again. It's just a matter of preference! However, we'd like to help you save money by guiding you toward the right toys.
If your dog can't sit still and loves to pull and chew on interesting textures, consider getting him an active toy like a rope or a rubber ball. Another good option would be a frisbee or any toy to fetch or pull on. However, if you choose a rope toy, make sure you can supervise him when he uses it. Many dogs can easily shred the rope and hurt themselves by swallowing fibers. When the toy is in tatters, it's time to replace it!
However, don't forget that rope toys are very useful for maintaining your pup's oral health. Let him chew on it once a day (while supervising him!), as this activity acts like brushing teeth and slows down tartar buildup. Plus, when playing with the rope, dogs usually use their whole body, so when you play with him, he gets exercise. Everyone wins!
You've probably noticed that your dog loves squeaky toys. If he gets bored easily, buying him a squeaky toy might be a good idea. If you don't mind him breaking it quickly, give him a squeaky toy and keep him busy!
The reason dogs love squeaky toys is simple: the high-pitched sound they make triggers an immediate rewarding reaction in the pup. He will work hard to find the source of that sound and, therefore, his reward.
The same phenomenon can almost be observed with another type of toy, which will keep your pet busy for hours: an interactive feeder or a dog puzzle. Interactive feeders are a good choice for dogs who eat too fast. This type of toy is hollow, made of rubber, and, cleverly, filled with food. By moving it with his mouth, nose, and paws, he will manage to get the food. It can take him some time!
A dog puzzle can also please the smartest in the pack! As with the feeder, a treat is hidden in the internal compartments of the puzzle. These toys offer several skill levels, so when your pup masters one level, you can get a more difficult one. It's so fun to watch them struggle!
Oh yes. Dog toys are literally dirty! According to NSF International, dog toys are among the germiest items in the home. And since your buddy uses his mouth to play, all those bacteria can end up in his system. The only way to avoid this is to clean.
When cleaning toys, be sure to use a pet-safe soap or simply avoid products altogether. For plush toys, you can wash them with water and vinegar before letting them dry. For chew toys, fill any holes to prevent cleaning products from seeping inside.
Your dog should have interactive and comforting toys, as well as toys that will keep him energetic. However, to make them last, you should rotate them. For example, interactive feeders are useful for days when you can't go to the dog park for your friend to roll in the mud. We are sure he will enjoy playing to earn those treats after a good walk.
Interactive toys are also very important for your dog's development, because they allow for socialization. By playing with you, your pet strengthens his attachment and develops social skills. Interactive play also shows him the difference between acceptable behavior and what he should avoid doing.
Finally, comfort toys are important because they calm him when he's nervous. A bit like you and your favorite TV show that you've been watching endlessly for years.
To make toys last longer, it might be a good idea to rotate them by only taking out a few at a time. Offer him a variety of styles that are easily accessible, and if your pup has a favorite toy, like a soft comfort toy, always leave it within his reach.
So, have you made your choice? Choose only the best toys for your furry friend by shopping in our store.
