Things to Avoid When Choosing Dog Toys
Playtime is an important pastime to share with your dog. It’s a great way for them to stay active, stay focused, and socialize with people and other dogs. Choosing the wrong dog toy can result in serious injuries or even death, which is why choosing the right toy is imperative for a fun and safe playtime. Below are a few things to be wary of when choosing a special toy for your pooch.
Stuffing
Dogs love ripping stuffing out of plush toys. We may not like it because of the fluffy aftermath, but dogs sure do. Toys with stuffing are generally safe, but it’s important that you watch your dog to make sure they’re not eating it. Dogs can be sneaky about this, so be sure to supervise them at all times. If you want to avoid this altogether, consider a stuffing-free alternative.
Batteries
You should never let any dog play with battery-operated toys, especially if they’re unsupervised. If you have a dog that’s tough on toys, they can puncture through the batteries or even eat them. With so many toys on the market, the safest bet is to avoid any dog toys with batteries. It’s not worth the risk.
Toxic Toys and Rawhide
You let your dog play their favorite plastic, squeaky toy bone only to find out it contains dangerous chemicals like phthalates or Bisphenol A (BPA). The same goes for bones, rawhide and chews. While they are a great way to keep your dog’s teeth healthy, clean and provide an outlet for their natural instinct to chew, some ingredients found in bones and chew are unnatural and could be potentially toxic. Make sure to read the ingredients carefully, research the manufacturer and select non-toxic and BPA free toys.
String
You should never let your dog play with string, rubber bands or any thin items. Not only is it a potential choking hazard, they can wrap around their legs and if eaten, cause serious intestinal problems.
Sticks and Rocks
Sticks and rocks are another big no-no. Sharp sticks can cause injuries and if chewed, can leave painful splinters in your dog’s mouth. Rocks can damage their teeth and if swallowed, cause intestinal blockage. Be wary of heavy sticks and rocks as they can also cause neck injuries. It’s better to use a rubber, BPA-free toy or a sturdy rope toy to throw around and play fetch as an alternative to using sticks and/or rocks.
Size
Pay close attention to the size of your dog and the size of the toy you are buying for them. If you buy a big dog a small toy, this can be a potential choking hazard. Conversely, if you buy a small dog a big toy, this can cause potential back and neck injuries. It’s important to choose a toy that’s tailored to the size of your dog.