Our canine buddies are very frisky, and love to play. Playing is actually very good for Fido! It will keep him active, occupied, entertained, and out of trouble. While we recommend taking time to play with your pup daily, it’s also important for him to have toys he can play with by himself. However, dog toys are definitely not one-size-fits-all. A Bowmanville, ON vet offers tips on choosing playthings for your pooch in this article.

Size

Size is one of the most important things to consider when buying dog toys. Large dogs can choke on things made for small breeds, while little dogs can hurt themselves with playthings that are too big for them. Tennis balls, for example, are fine for retrievers, but can choke bigger dogs.

Material

Get into the habit of reading labels, and choose toys that are made from non-toxic materials. Try to avoid things made overseas, as not all countries have strict—or any—regulations on pet products.

Stuffed Animals

Stuffed animals are definitely one of Fido’s favorites. However, they can be choking hazards. We recommend removing small parts, like plastic eye or noses, and sewing the openings shut. You may also need to remove the squeaker: it definitely isn’t safe for your pet to swallow.

Puppy Personality

Not all playthings are suitable for every pup. For example, if your four-legged buddy has aggressive tendencies, you may not want to get him rope toys. Some dogs get a little too involved in playing Tug O’ War, and can get aggressive or territorial about their toys.

Playful Pups

If Fido spends a lot of time alone, or is just very energetic and mischievous, get him toys that will keep him occupied when you’re out. Puzzle toys are great for this, as they can keep Fido entertained for hours. Automated toys, like mechanical ball launchers, are also a good bet for super-frisky dogs.

Senior/Specially Abled Dogs

As Fido grows older, he may experience a decline in his vision or hearing. Dogs also sometimes lose their sight or hearing due to injury, infection, or genetics. If your furry friend can’t hear very well, look for toys that light up. If your canine pal has poor eyesight, choose toys that squeak or make noises. Please reach out to us, your Bowmanville, ON vet clinic, for all of your pet’s veterinary care needs. We are here to help!