Dog toys are an essential part of keeping your pup happy and entertained.
Not only do they help reduce boredom, but they can also be used to provide educational stimulation, strengthen the bond between you and your pup, and even help relieve anxiety.
Note that if a particular toy overly excites your dog, leading to unwanted behaviours, it is best to discourage the unwanted behaviour and/or destruction. If that fails then remove it altogether, and avoid these types of toys for your four-legged friend.
If your dog is anxious then I suggest getting toys that are proven to successfully reduce anxiety in dogs. Usually these are interactive toys where you also get involved and encourage and reward regularly.
There are a wide variety of interactive dog toys which include tug-of-war ropes, squeaky balls, Frisbee’s and much more. I highly recommend good interaction between your dog and the entire family through bonding, play and learning.
For comfort you can get chew toys, as well as comfort objects like cuddly blankets and pillows. Regular playtime with these types of toys can help to relieve worry and stress in even the most anxious pup.
Here is a list of some of the toys you can buy for your pup, with benefits:
TREAT TOYS
Treat toys can be great fun for your dog, as long as used for short bursts. You will want to make sure that the toy doesn’t crack, crumble or peel, as your dog will be chewing on it a lot. The idea of these toys is that you put treats and/or food mixture inside the toy so that your dog can settle and lick the contents, which will help to calm your dog. Great for nervous, anxious dogs and especially dogs suffering with Separation anxiety. As an alternative you may consider a lick mat, which tend to be made of rubber. Just be careful your dog doesn’t chew the material, so supervise at all times.
KONG Classic is a product I use with my dog, and have suggested for many of my clients over the years, as it is strong and shaped well to aid your dog.
The main thing you need to remember is not over cramming food/treats into the Treat toy, as this can lead to frustration and stress, which usually leads to unwanted behaviour and sometimes destruction.
DURABLE CHEW TOYS
These types of toys tend to be strong and hard to destroy. Ideal for dogs with strong jaw bones. These toys can come with coloured string surrounding them, a squeaky inside, ridged which is good for your dog’s teeth, and a variety of shapes and colours. Every dog should have at least one of these.
TUG TOYS
Engaging with your dog with a tug toy is fun, engaging and good for your bond. However, these types of toys should only be used in short bursts. If you have a dog who is anxious, slightly aggressive or hyper excitable, then it would be wise to avoid this type of toy. There are other toys available where you and your pup can engage in play together.
PLUSH TOYS
These are perfect comfort toys. Most of the time they come with a squeaky inside and come in a wide range of shapes, sizes and colours. You can get anything from a Doughnut to a duck and even a bell clanging octopus.
SQUEAKY BALLS
These toys tend to be sturdy plastic with ridges or pointy pieces sticking up, which helps your dog to grip and helps with the teeth as well.
PUZZLE TOYS
These are fantastic toys to interact with your dog with. Your dog has to work out how to get the treats out by completing a puzzle. Highly recommended, stimulating and rewarding. Every pup needs at least one of these.
SNUFFLE BALLS AND MATS
Another great activity for your dog. You place treats between the material and your dog has to work on getting the treats out. Highly recommended under supervision and being close to the ground with your canine companion, encouraging on and giving a good, short fuss when a treat is obtained from the snuffle.
CONCLUSION
With so many toy options available you can stimulate your canine buddy for hours, as well as growing your bond and educating him/her at the same time.
Learn and understand your dog, and adapt to the right type of toy based on what works, lasts and doesn’t encourage unwanted behaviours.
