Buying fun toys and accessories is one of the most rewarding
aspects of dog ownership. Toys help keep our dogs happy throughout the day and
become great bonding tools when it’s time to play. From the balls and squeaky to
the rubber and rugged, there is a wide world of toys to explore, and choosing
the right dog toys is important for the overall health of our dogs. Whether
you've got a new dog joining the family or just looking to surprise your furry
friend, check out these tips on choosing the right toys for your dog.
What Dogs Really
Want Since we can’t just ask what our dogs really want (at
least not yet), we’ll need to make some observations to choose the right dog
toy. Every dog is unique but rest assured, there are plenty of toys that will
fit your furry friend’s play needs.
First, it helps to understand some basic dog instincts. Dogs are naturally packed animals. It is
important for them to feel like part of a group with companions to play and
snuggle. Interactive toys, for play between pet and pet parent, support the
need to be included socially while solo toys help occupy the restless dog and
even stand in as a friend while we’re away. On the other hand, dogs can become
destructive when bored.
Many dogs also possess the natural instinct to “hunt”. Yes, even
the cutest Chihuahua is said to have descended from an ancient breed of wolf.
Toys that squeak and raddle nurture this idea of captured “prey”. Once they
have retrieved their prey during a game of fetch, some dogs will destroy their
catch.
1. Balls
Everything from rubber, plush, tennis, foam and squeaker
balls, you’ll never be short on ideas. This is a classic and easy way to ensure
your pup stays active, and is a fun game to play when you head out on walks,
too. Glow in the dark toys are a great idea if you find yourself walking them
in the dark a lot! But be careful on size, as some dogs may choke on smaller
toys.
2. Discs and Other Retrieving Toys:
Dogs that love balls and playing fetch also tend to enjoy
discs and other retrieval toys. The disc is a bit more versatile than a ball
when it comes to fetching because you can vary the speed of the disc and cause
it to change direction. This variety can further challenge your dog and prevent
boredom. Other retrievers, such as the "Hurley" give your dog a
uniquely shaped toy to fetch. Alternative fetch toys may be made of rubber,
plastic, rope, or another material.
Tip: If your dog loves to fetch discs, check out the dogsport that involves disc retrieval.
3. Soft Dog Toys
Soft toys are made of fleece or plush fabric. Some soft toys
have squeakers, while others just have a polyester fiber type of filling. These
toys are among the most popular for playing fetch. Soft toys are not very
durable (think along the lines of a stuffed animal). These are probably best
suited for dogs that are not destructive with their toys. Some dogs just like
to carry them around and snuggle.
4. TUG TOYS
This is a fun toy to use with your pup. Often people veer
away from this type of toy as it can encourage aggression, but if your pup is
properly trained you should have nothing to worry about. The point isn’t to
tear these to pieces, so it’s necessary to replace them as soon as you notice
any damage or missing pieces. As you play a round of Tug-O-War together, make
sure you’re not being too aggressive and pulling the toy out of your pup's
mouth as this could cause some dental health issues for them. When playing,
make sure they understand the command ‘drop it’ or ‘release’ so they let go of it
when you need them to.
5. Plush Toys
Plush toys offer more than just play; they can offer company
and companionship for dogs. Many dogs enjoy cuddling with their plush toys,
proudly carrying them around the house. Plush toys with squeaks and other noise
making features engage dogs on an innate level to hold their interest. Best for
light chewers, plush toys are usually filled with a soft stuffing and aren’t
designed for long chew sessions. Because no one likes cleaning up the scattered
remains of a plush toy, right, Fido? Check out more plush toys and other dog
accessories on Petmate. There's sure to be one that your dog will love.
Share with Your Friends
Source:
https://www.petmate.com/choosing-the-right-toys-for-your-dog/article/a10030
https://www.thesprucepets.com/dog-toy-styles-1118611
https://thepetlabco.com/blogs/dogs/choosing-the-right-toys-for-your-dog
https://www.petcoach.co/article/how-to-choose-the-right-toys-for-your-dog/
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