Wednesday, February 1, 2012

Safe Dog Toys You Can Use

By Will Schlepinger


Thinking of their dogs as children is what dog owners tend to do. "That's my baby" is what they would say when referring to their dogs. They will also refer to themselves as mommy or daddy when they are also talking to their dogs. Another thing they do is buy their dogs toys to play with. It can be tricky to choose the right toys. What people like to get for their dogs are cute, squeaky toys or they would give them stuffed animals to chew on and carry around (the stuffed toy becomes the dog's "baby" quite often) because to them, it is absolutely adorable. It is not necessary for dog toys to be cute. Instead, it is important for them to be safe, durable, fun for the dog, and practical.

Avoid Non-Toy "Toys"

Dogs may be loyal, lovable, friendly, and playful but even so, they are not really the brightest creatures. They are naturally attracted to things that can cause them the most harm. It's important to start early with your dog, providing save toys to chew and play with while teaching the animal to avoid household items it may wish to use as toys. One example is the fact that dogs like to chew on pantyhose but these could easily be partially ingested, choking the dog. Chewing on power cords and risking a harmful or fatal electric shock is what some dogs will do. Teach your dog early on what things are for chewing and playing and what things are off limits.

What are the Best and Safest Dog Toys?

When it comes to the size of the toy, it is an important consideration. Kongs, balls, and other typical toys must be small enough that the dog can chew them and carry them, but not so small that they can become lodged in the dog's mouth or throat.

An important factor, especially for a dog that loves to chew, is durability. If a toy can break apart easily, then it can become a hazard as the small, sharp parts can be swallowed, caught in the throat, or cut the mouth and gums. Considered as an excellent choice is hard rubber Kong and it is easily one of the best dog toys every conceived.

The popular squeak toys are made of thin plastic and full of air are good for dogs that are a bit gentler and they are considered as softer toys. They're unlikely to chew through such items and are usually attracted by the squeaking sound.

For some dogs, tennis balls are great but for others, it is a poor choice. This is actually a question of size ratios. If the dog is too small to fit a tennis ball all the way in its mouth, then it can be an excellent toy that the dog will love but costs very little. If the ball can fit all the way in the dog's maw, however, it becomes a choking hazard.




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