Toys
can be as important to a dog′s development as they are for children. Toys can
do more than keep children and pets entertained and occupied. Properly
selected, they can assist both children and dogs with their social and
emotional development. Adults also use toys in play which results in
strengthening social bonds, and exercise of their minds and bodies.
Every
dog should have three sets of toys; chew toys to satisfy the need to chew,
interactive treat dispensing toys to entertain themselves with, and a set of
toys that they only have access to when they are playing with their owners.
Rules for Dog Toys
- No toy is
indestructible
- Anything the dog
considers fun can be a toy
- Toys must be
nontoxic, large enough that they cannot be swallowed, destroyed or ingested
-
Rotate the toys
your dog has access to at least every few days so they do not get bored with
them
-
Supervisor your
dog with any new toy to be sure it is safe for your dog
Chew Toys
-
A quality chew
toy will satisfy your dog′s need to chew and provide a constructive and safe
way to occupy his time
- Chew toys may
also help with gentle cleaning of the teeth and gums
-
Many can be
stuffed and/or frozen with organic peanut butter, applesauce/blueberries,
grated carrots/chicken, etc...
Interactive Treat Dispensing Toys
-
Start by using a
small enough treat so that they come out easily when the toy is rolled or moved
-
Nurture your
dog′s natural curiosity by providing encouragement as he explores the toy
-
Slowly roll or
move the toy so that treats fall out, then encourage your dog to eat the treats
-
The toy can be
used to feed your dog a part of his daily meal if you use kibble
-
Buy a premium
brand of kibble to use as a special treat for the toy; it will generally have
less empty calories and filler than regular treats
Toys For Play With Owners
- Control the toys
and keep them out of sight of the dog
-
If you are a good
playmate your dog will be interested in playing with these with you
-
All dogs should
be taught to play with toys with their owner, specifically retrieving games,
a.k.a. ″sharing″
Just
like with children a dog should be taught good manners during play.
