Looking for the best puppy toys for your dog?
Dogs are playful animals; chewing and playing are embedded into their instincts. You throw a soft plush ball into a distance, and your dog will go chasing after the ball with its tail wagging happily. With this simple "drop" and "leave" game, you can create a robust and friendly bond with your furry friend.
Providing dogs with suitable toys support them in exhibiting their natural extinct through play. Without toys, your puppy will get bored and start showing behavioral problems. The absence of toys will also negatively impact your dog's growth which you would not want.
Many people think that toys are a luxury for animals, but that is not true.
Toys Are a Necessity for Dogs
Yes, that's right. Toys are necessary for the overall well-being of a dog.
An animal explores the world around him through his mouth and nose. They have a natural habit of chewing on things that relaxes them. They sink their teeth into any object that they come across, especially young puppies. Puppies aged from 2-months to 10-months old experience teething, and during this period, adult teeth and molars begin to sprout. The process is quite painful, and their urge to chew on things increases during this period to feel better. And so they need a safe and exciting toy to play with.
Besides morning walks and evening strolls, your pet needs mental exercises to stay healthy and fit. When a dog is bored, feels neglected, or experiences a surge of excess energy (which greatly impacts his overall behavior), he may chew his owner's socks, rip apart the cushions through his claws, or start destroying home furniture. Giving your dog toys will resolve these issues and support your pet in developing positive habits.
But not all puppy toys are perfect for every dog. You need to invest in the best puppy toys to make your dog happy.
Dog and Puppy Toys: How to Make the Right Choice?
When it comes to buying your furball friend a new toy, you will have countless puppy toys options to choose from. But which one should you choose? And most importantly, how to pick a suitable and entertaining toy for your pet buddy?
A few facts that go into your decision to find the "perfect dog-friendly" toy are your dog's size, breed, age, and play style.
How Old Is Your Dog?
Your dog's age matters a lot when you shop for a dog toy. A three-month-old dog has an obsession with chewing on stuff as he still has the baby teeth. For such dogs, soft rubber toys or something plushy or cuddly are ideal options.
As soon as the teething period kicks in (i.e., from three to nine months), he will need chewable but durable toys to soothe his gums. When your dog becomes four years old, he will need various puppy toys to play with. He will have fierce jaws and will be full of energy. He will play with balls at this stage, and you can also try some tug of war using triggers and rubber rings.
As your dog begins to grow old (about seven years onwards), his teeth and gums will become weaker. At this stage, providing them with interactive toys is the best option.
The Size and Weight
You must consider the toy's size, weight, and texture before making the final purchase. If the toy is too small, chances are your dog will swallow it while playing. As a real general rule of thumb, if the toy easily fits behind your dog's molar, it should be crossed out instantly.
The weight of the toy should be appropriate for your dog's size. He should be able to carry it around the house easily. For instance, a tiny Yorkshire Terrier and Miniature Schnauzer have small mouths and jaws. Giving them large toys with tough outer surfaces will pressure their gums. Instead, soft cuddly chewable toys will make them happier.
Indoors, Outdoors Play
Keeping your dog entertained within your home walls is necessary (if you want to keep your furniture safe). If your dog mostly remains indoors, bring toys that will kill his boredom and help promote good behavior. Plush toys, interactive toys, hunt games, and puzzles are a few options to keep your dog occupied.
But if you have a high-energy breed that loves exercise and getting dirty in the mud, you might have to change your shopping list. Rubber balls and rope toys are purposely designed for this matter. To have some pet-owner quality time, you can play "Fetch the ball" and tug of war. Besides, there are some water-based toys available in the market, designed for dogs learning to swim or who love a dive or two in water.
Playstyle
Before you set out to find that "perfect" dog-friendly toy to keep your little friend entertained, you first need to understand the nature of your pet. Does he likes to chew, or does he belong to the "smart dog group" and loves to play with interactive toys? Or maybe he prefers the treasure hunt game where treats are hidden in treat balls. For such pets, squeaky toys can satisfy their instinct of pouncing and shaking.
Toys are available in several sizes and shapes, but you need to choose a toy that complements the playstyle of your furry friend. This way your friend will be able to have a good time.
Supervise Your Per During Playtime
So, now you know how to choose the best puppy toys.
As a dog parent, you must keep an eye on your pet. If you find any toys broken or worn out, replace them before they can cause damage to your pet. You should also wash and disinfect soft and fleecy toys in your warm water to keep them hygienic. If your dog is an aggressive chewer and is trying to rip off his plush toys, replace them with a chewing toy.
