Plush Animal Lovers Day is October 28th! Many of our canine patients are big fans of stuffed animals. Fido is super cute when he runs up to you with his favorite toy! Playthings serve important purposes for Man’s Best Friend. They keep pups active and entertained, prevent boredom, and offer mental stimulation. Plushie toys are almost always a hit, because they resemble (and often sound like) the small animals that dogs hunt in the wild. However, there are a few things to consider when choosing your pet’s plushies. An Oshawa, ON veterinarian lists a few of them below.

Safety

Safety should always be your first concern when picking dog toys. Don’t let your pooch play with anything that has small parts he may try to eat, such as buttons, plastic eyes and noses, or other bits and pieces. These can be serious choking hazards!

Size

It’s important to choose toys that are the right size for Fido. Your furry buddy could choke on something that is too small for him! He could also hurt himself on toys meant for larger dogs.

Material

Check the label before giving Fido his new toy. Stick with things that were made with natural fabrics, if possible. Also, avoid products that are decorated with glitter, paint, beads, or other unsafe substances.

Care

Dogs can play pretty rough at times, so their toys can really take a beating. Inspect your canine pal’s plushies regularly. Those that are in good shape can probably be machine-washed, though you’ll want to check the label instructions first. We also recommend sewing up small holes, so your four-legged friend can’t eat the stuffing. Of course, if the toy has been reduced to a few pieces of crusty fabric, your best bet is probably just to toss it. (This probably goes without saying, but don’t let Fido see you do this.)

Aggression

Plushie toys aren’t going to be the best choice for all of our canine companions. Some dogs get a bit too protective of them. This can be an issue with pups that have aggressive tendencies. Other pups get obsessive about removing the squeaker and stuffing. These things are definitely not safe for Fido to eat. Keep a close eye on your furry friend when he’s playing with his stuffies. As your Oshawa, ON animal clinic, we’re dedicated to offering top-notch care. Please feel free to contact us anytime.