How to choose the best dog toys

Just like kids, dogs play for development and learning as well as entertainment. The right dog toys can be tools for bonding between you and your pet, can stretch them mentally and physically, and even help calm an anxious pup.

Dr Jess Beer, veterinary behaviourist at Kiwi Vet Behaviour, says exercising your dog’s mind is just as important as exercising their body, and enrichment toys are a great way to make dogs feel fulfilled and stable. “Enrichment activities help stave off a lot of the problems that I sometimes see as a dog behaviourist,” says Dr Jess.

Tip: Always wear the appropriate safety equipment (safety glasses, gloves, ear muffs and a mask, for example) and always follow the instructions for the product or equipment.

Why is it important to buy dog toys for my puppy?

Toys are especially important for puppies. Dr Jess says that during the critical learning stage, it’s essential for puppies to explore their world through taste and smell. “When I do my puppy classes, I say they need a toy that’s fluffy, something to chew on and a brain game like a puzzle,” she says.

Like all babies during teething, puppies will want something to chew on to soothe their gums (always check the age suitability of chew toys). Dental dog toys also promote licking and chewing, which is a great calming activity for dogs of all ages. “It’s important to teach them what is appropriate for them to chew to prevent unwanted losses of shoes!” says Dr Jess.

Early exposure to toys will help dogs develop problem-solving skills, which will lead to a lifetime enjoyment of different kinds of enrichment. Toys that keep dogs occupied, such as those that dispense treats as rewards for working out a challenge, are great for preventing boredom.

What dog toys are best for my breed of dog?

Some breeds will respond better than others to particular toys, especially those that allow them to act out instinctive behaviours, says Dr Jess. “For example, retrieving dogs such as labradors like carrying the toys around. Ratting dogs like Jack Russell terriers love to chase and destroy things, so a toy they can eviscerate and you can refill is best,” she says.

What sized dog toy is the best one for my dog to play with?

Selecting the right size of toy for your dog is important. Lots of breeds like to play fetch with a ball, but the ball should be a good size for them to hold in their mouth while running – balls that are too small can be a choking hazard for larger dogs.

Should I supervise my dog while playing with dog toys?

Always supervise your dog or puppy with newly introduced toys to ensure they are not going to swallow or choke on parts of them, says Dr Jess. And regularly check your pet’s toys for signs of wear and tear because, like any product, they will have a lifespan in which they are safe and useful.

Keep in mind…

• Check with your local authority which animals are permitted to be kept as pets in your area.
• No toy is indestructible - always supervise your pet with new toys, inspect them regularly and remove them if they become damaged or unusable.

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Photo credit: Adobe Stock.