Dogs are social animals, and playing is one of the best ways to promote their affiliation and healthy development. Because, during play, they involve other animals and even approach people they recognize as friends. Simply put, this activity doesn’t increase dominance; it promotes cooperative relationships and keeps your pup entertained.

More on the importance of this activity for your furry buddy see below:

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Toys for dogs are a great way to keep them occupied and active. That reduces your pet’s tendency to engage in undesirable behaviors, such as chewing shoes or barking excessively. Also, these items can help your pet cope with stress and fears. They can provide much-needed comfort whenever they feel lonely or scared.

You might think your pup will be happy with just about any toy. But that’s far from the truth, as the proper plaything choice is of great importance for your pet’s social and mental development. So you have to pay utmost attention to choosing the items of the right size and material for your pouch.

Consider Your Pup Age

When selecting toys for your furry buddy, it’s important to consider the animal’s age and size. For instance, puppies are more playful and full of energy, so they may not be interested in the same activities as their older siblings. So their playthings should be durable and flexible.

Also, puppy toys should be smaller than those for adult dogs but not too small to avoid swallowing. Moreover, they’ll enjoy interactive and squeaky things, which is not the case with adult dogs.

Instead, grown-up pups prefer ‘silent’ items that don’t distract them much, but they’ll also gladly run for that jumpy tennis ball when they’re in the mood. On this link, find tips on learning your puppy a game of fetch.

For old dogs, choose comfort toys without squeakers and small parts. Some pets carry these items around, while others attack them when they need to unwind. Also, you can pick feeders or other smart playthings that require your pup to use their brain to get treats. But avoid these if your pet has weight or health issues that call for a specific diet.

Toy Size

Dogs can sometimes overestimate their abilities, so seeing your Pomeranian playing with a large plushie shouldn’t surprise you. In fact, small pups may not like large, heavy play playthings, but they might enjoy large stuffed items. So you shouldn’t always take the pup’s size as a limiting factor, as it’s not always in line with their playing preferences.

Likewise, medium-sized and large dogs may prefer playthings that can be held in the mouth and chewed. So offer them something durable to withstand their ‘attacks.’ But don’t be surprised to see larger breeds, such as poodles and labradors, may enjoy large teddies and cushioned play items as well.

Some general rule is that toys should fit your dog’s mouth and match their style of play for the utmost safety. That’s why most certified manufacturers provide a size guide for their products on their packaging or website.

Giving your large dog a small toy can cause problems like choking or intestinal obstruction. On the other hand, too big playthings can cause excessive strain, damaging the muscles in your pup’s jaw and even causing serious health issues like osteoarthritis.

Materials and Texture

Another factor to consider when picking toys for your four-legged friend is materials. First, it’s essential to pick play products from a reputable company, as they undergo extensive testing to ensure no toxic matters.

Next, your pet’s playthings must be made of materials that are safe to chew. For example, hard rubber and nylon balls are good and safe options for most pups. Still, you should avoid soft rubber items for adult dogs, as they can easily tear these items and swallow rubber parts.

But soft rubbery gadgets work for puppies with baby teeth. These can be excellent training for their tiny jaws. Soft rubber items might even be suitable for older dogs that are not overly active and aggressive. But when they’re not down for playing, soft plushies will keep them relaxed and consolated.

For adult dogs with strong jaws, choose playthings made of harder rubber and ropes. In particular, tennis balls and rope pulls are safe bets to keep them entertained. Hollow balls that can be chewed are also great choices.

Plushies are a common dog plaything, and you’r pup will be thrilled with those found on “traveldogproducts.com but you must take care with these items. If you’re afraid of choking, provide your pooch with fluffy toys without stuffing and small parts. Dogs tend to tear these items apart and ingest these fillers.

Offer Different Toys to Your Dog

Remember that dog toys won’t last long, as your playful puppy will soon tear them apart. So always have a few extra playthings in stock. Also, introduce different textures and surfaces to your pet so they don’t get bored with one toy.

So it’s a good idea to rotate different toys every once in a while. Changing up the plaything types keeps things interesting for your dog. For example, balls and fetch gadgets can keep your pup engaged for a while. But soon, they’ll need other challenges.

So you should offer your pet some burrow and puzzle toys to create a new challenging environment. Also, let your pup find toys; they’ll genuinely enjoy this achievement. Find out here how brain games can benefit your pooch.

Keeping different gadgets around will keep your pup distracted for a while. However, remember that these items shouldn’t replace human interaction; they should only supplement it. Toys should give your furry buddy fun, but they have you for love and kudos.

Choosing a toy for your dog doesn’t have to be a chore. Many products are designed for different breeds and their specific needs. But, while shopping for a new toy, remember to consider your dog’s size, breed, and age. And it’s always good to have several playthings on hand to keep your four-legged friend engaged in different activities.