Buying dog toys
seems super simple. You pick out something, remove packaging, give it to your
dog and you’re done. But managing your dog’s playtime, including which toys you
choose for him, can directly affect his quality of life – and yours! If you’re
making any of the following common dog toy mistakes, know that changing up even
one of these things can make a big difference for you both.
1. Not Replacing
Worn-Out Toys
We don’t ask our
dogs to be gentle with their toys, because it’s just not going to happen. Dog toys
are made to be chewed and can withstand a lot, but no matter how well-made and
durable a toy is, eventually it’s going to give out. Worn-out toys break down
into worn-out pieces that your dog can choke on or swallow. The moment you spot
a toy that looks like it’s nearing the end, put it in the garbage and treat
your dog to something new. A new toy will be a lot cheaper than a trip to the
vet.
2. Buying The
Wrong Size
You have probably
seen toys on the shelf that come in different sizes. They may even have
recommended size ranges on the labels. These are important – you can’t expect
your tiny-mouthed Chihuahua to be able to chew a toy made for a much larger
breed. And don’t give your big dog a toy made for a smaller pup – these can
easily slip into the back of his mouth and obstruct his breathing. Your dog is
going to enjoy toys made for his own size the best – and they’ll be safer for
him, too.
3. Not Rotating
Your Dog’s Toys
Your dog can get
bored playing with the same toys over and over again. Even if he has a whole
room full of toys, he can get tired of them all. Rotating toys is a great way
to treat your dog without spending any more money. Only allow him to have a few
toys at a time, and when he seems bored, take the ones he has, clean them up, and
put them away for later. Give him toys you were storing and no matter how many
times he’s seen those toys before, it’ll be like they’re brand new! You can
throw a new toy into the mix every now and then, but rotating will help toys
last a little longer and keep your pup interested in the ones he already has.
4. Not Using
Dual-Purpose Toys
The primary
purpose of any toy is to entertain your dog. Many toys are made to do only
that, but others serve a second purpose. Toys can be used to make many mundane or
unpleasant things fun. They can slow down eating (which can help if you have a
gassy dog,) or even make tooth brushing fun. It’s likely that your dog has a
ball, which is great for exercising his body – but a ball (like this one) with
an unusual shape can exercise his mind, too as he tries to figure out which way
it’s going to bounce next!
5. Not Buying Toys
Your Dog Enjoys
Dogs are just as
unique as people, and have preferences the way we do. Pay attention to what
your pet likes. Some dogs prefer toys that squeak, others like soft toys with
faces, some want toys that are can be chewed all day and not break. Some dogs
won’t even bother with toys they don’t enjoy. There’s no point buying your dog
a million toys if they’re all things he doesn’t want to play with.
Toys are an
important part of your dog’s physical and mental well-being. Be sure to keep
him happily playing by avoiding these mistakes!
(Source)
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