The Dos and Don’ts of Dog Toys

How to pick and use dog toys wisely for your furbaby's safety and enjoyment.

Our furbabies are more than just pets — they are well-loved members of our family. Dog toys play a big part in keeping your pup’s tail wagging, but not all are pawsitively made equal.

To make sure your dog has a blast while staying safe, we’ve got some tips on the dos and don’ts of dog toys.

Don’t: Give Human Toys to Dogs

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It’s not a good idea to let your dog play with a child’s toys. Human toys often have small parts that can be dangerous if chewed or swallowed.

Dogs have their own special toys that are designed to keep them safe and engaged. Sharing human toys could confuse your dog and lead to them damaging your stuff (like the occasional expensive shoe) down the road.

Do: Keep a Watchful Eye on Your Dog During Playtime

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It’s good idea to be present when your dog is playing. Any toy can break or wear down, and your dog might swallow small pieces.

Also, some dogs may get overly excited or aggressive during play, leading to conflicts with other pets or children. By supervising your pup’s playtime, you can ensure their safety and step in if necessary.

Don’t: Give Your Dog Toys with String

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Avoid giving your dog toys with strings or loose threads, as they can quickly turn into a choking hazard or cause digestive problems if swallowed. This can not only be extremely costly but also life-threatening.

To keep your furry friend safe, always inspect their toys for wear and tear to prevent any string-related incidents.

Do: Get the Right Sized Toy for Your Dog

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Toys that are too small can be a choking hazard, while toys that are too big might overwhelming for a smaller pup.

The ideal toy should be easy for your dog to carry and interact without these risks. So, consider their size and play style when picking out the perfect toy.

Don’t: Give Dogs Hard Items as Toys

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Avoid giving your dog hard items to play with (for example, bones, sticks and hooves), as they can not only cause injury to your pup’s month, but can also harm their digestive tract.

Instead, choose durable toys designed for chewing to satisfy your dog’s natural urge for doing so.

Do: Check the Label on the Toy

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Checking the label on a dog’s toy can provide all the information you’ll need about its safety and suitability. Look for details like size recommendations, materials used, and any safety certifications.

Toys labeled as “non-toxic,” “pet-safe,” or “FDA-approved” are always good choices.

Don’t: Leave Toys Out All Day, Every Day

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Leaving toys out all the time can make them less fun for your dog. They might get bored, which could lead to their chewing on other things (enter expensive shoes.)

Instead, create a time for play and switch them out now and then to keep the fun going!

Do: Avoid Toys with Small Parts

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If a toy has tiny pieces that your dog can swallow, it could get stuck in their throat or cause digestive problems.

Keep it simple and safe by opting for toys designed without small pieces, ensuring your furbaby’s playtime is not only enjoyable for them, but also worry-free for you.

Don’t: Forget to Wash Toys Frequently

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Because dogs play with toys using their mouths, they get dirty easily and even carry harmful germs.

Cleaning them via laundry or the sink not only keeps your dog safe but also makes playtime more pleasant for everyone involved.

Do: Stuff Dog Toys with Plenty of Treats

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There’s no bones about it — dogs love treat-dispensing toys, so be generous with whatever you put inside. Treats or kibble can keep your pup engaged for a time as they hunt down their tasty reward.

However, just make sure that whatever treats you chose are appropriate for your dog’s size and dietary needs.