5 Tips for Choosing the Best Toys for Your Dog - Canine Campus Dog Daycare & Boarding

Toys are a necessity for your dog. Toys help your dog defend against boredom, provide comfort and help prevent problem behaviors. Toys help dogs cope with their need to chew and gives family members a way to interact with their dog.

Toys help support your dog’s mental and physical health because they provide stimulation and exercise during play. Some toys are safe to leave with your dog while you’re not around, but others should only be given to your dog when supervised.

Here are five tips you can use to choose the best – and safest – toys for your pooch.

Choose a toy that is the right size

Toys should be appropriate for your dog’s size and breed. Choose toys large enough that your dog can’t swallow during play. For example, too-small rubber balls can become slimy during play and slip down your dog’s throat. Breeds with a strong predatory instinct will try to replicate what they would do with prey, tearing it with their incisors. Make sure the toy is large enough they can’t work it to the back of their mouth.

Choose a toy that is age-appropriate

Puppies have different needs than adult dogs. Puppies need toys that are designed for teething and comfort; adult dogs are more sophisticated and need toys that stimulate them in other ways. Your dog’s habits and preferences will change as they age; pay attention to what interests your dog and is designed for his/her breed and developmental level.

Choose a toy that matches your dog’s activity level

Some dogs really prefer active games and others are more docile. Dogs that are more active may need toys that are more durable that will hold up under vigorous play.

Toys that work well for very active dogs include:

Hard, chewy rubber toys
Durable toys
Rope toys for tug-o-war
Tennis balls (make sure they are not too small and can be swallowed by your dog)
Squeaky toys

Choose a toy that will be safe for your dog

Avoid these unsafe dog toys:

Toys with string, ribbons, feathers, rubber bands, small plastic eyes, or another part your dog can remove, chew or eat. Children’s toys are often dangerous choking hazards that can cause a serious or fatal intestinal obstruction if your dog ingests them.
The stuffing out of a toy can also be a choking hazard or cause intestinal problems if swallowed
Toys that contain toxins. Look for strong chemical smells; if the toy gives off a strong odor, avoid it. Chemicals can include:
- Dyes and preservatives
- Heavy metals (cadmium, lead, chromium)
- Some latex contain phthalates and BPA
- Fire retardants usually contain formaldehyde and other chemicals
- Stain guard
Balls with a single air hole that can create deadly suction
Toys made of soft plastics
Toys with sharp parts or corners

Look for toys that are interactive

Most of all, your dog wants to play and interact with you. Safe, interactive play will foster the important bond you share. Here are some fun interactive toys your dog might enjoy…

Playing with your dog and a carefully chosen toy will help with the training process and teach young dogs social skills. Playtime can also discourage undesirable behaviors like jumping up and mouthing. But even the best dog toy in the world cannot replace the joy that your dog receives from enjoying playtime with her beloved family members.

Want more ideas of fun things to do with your dog? Click here for 10 Fun Games to Play With Your Dog to Prevent Boredom.

Need a place to board your dog over the holidays? We book up fast over the holiday season so be sure to call Canine Campus at 719-448-9600 right away to make your reservation at Colorado Springs’ premier dog care facility.