All About
Dog Toys

Toys are important
for puppies and young dogs.

Dogs who have toys to play with are less bored. Often, dogs who have poor behavior have lots of energy and nothing to do. Toys can direct dogs to healthy behaviors, use up excess (too much) energy, and be a way for the two of you to play together.

Most dogs love toys. Puppies, especially love to put toys and things in their mouths. Like people, dogs play less as they get older. But if encouraged, even older dogs will play. A disc like a Frisbee® is fun when you can play with your dog. Some dogs need to learn how to catch a disc, but it's not too hard.

What size is your dog?

It's important to choose the right size toy for your dog. Don't give your large dog a toy that is too small because he might swallow it. It should be large enough that it won't get stuck in his throat.

Balls ar good for playing fetch. You can play catch and keep-away. You can put a ball in the water and have your dog get it out. Balls are good for dogs because they give your dog lots of exercise. Chasing after a ball keeps your dog moving. Remember, tired dogs are good dogs.

Labrador Retriever with ball.

Plastic toys.

Use caution with plastic toys.

It's important to make sure the dog toys you buy are safe. Some toys could make your pet sick. Talk to your vet and your parents before buying plastic toys. Look for the words 'non-toxic' on the packaging of any toy you purchase, especially plastic ones. Buy toys that are 'made in the USA'.

Rope toys are fun for dogs.

They are twisted and tough, and the ends are knotted with fringe. Puppies like to chew on them and most dogs will chase them.

Some rope toys have other things attached to them like the one on your right: the rope, a stuffed star, and fringe. Watch that your dog isn't tearing the fringe off and eating it. If it does come off, just pick it up and throw it away.

Two short rope toys.

Rope toys come in all lengths, from very short to two or three feet long. They can be fun for tug-of-war, but if you have an aggressive dog, tug-of-war isn't the best game to play.

Some dogs get over-excited and a little rough when playing tug-of-war. Knowing your dog's personality will help you decide if this is a good game to play.

Stuffed animals come in many shapes.

Many dogs love stuffed animals. Dogs can toss them, sleep with them, carry them, and chew on them. Watch that your dog doesn't eat the toy, as the material isn't good for a dog's stomach. Take the toy away once it becomes torn, and replace it with something else.

A stuffed toy with a sqeaker inside.

Some of the toys you'll buy will have squeakers inside. These are little plastic pieces that make a squeaky noise when squeezed. Most dogs love squeaky toys. Some dogs squeeze them so much that it seems like they are using the sound to talk.

If your dog likes to rip dog toys up, make sure you supervise him so that he doesn't have a chance to eat the squeaker.

See the video!

This is another treat ball. It works the same way as the other ones. But this ball is a softer plastic and the treats fall out easier than the blue toys above. This is good for dogs who need faster reward without much work. And because it is a softer material, dogs can pick it up in their mouths and toss it.

Some bones are safe.

Large sterile bones from the pet or grocery store are good choices for your dog. Never give your dog small bones from turkey or chicken. They can be very dangerous if they get into your dog's throat or stomach.

Cow hooves are unsafe because they have sharp edges. Check with your vet regarding rawhide and pigs ears. Sometimes the pieces get soft and they can get stuck in a dog's throat. If your vet approves, always supervise your dog when he chews these and this shouldn't happen.

How many toys should you have
and where do you keep them?

Some people find that a toy box or other container is a good place to store their dog's toys. Put a couple of toys out for your dog. After a couple of days, or if you notice your dog getting bored, put those toys away and bring out some different ones. By rotating your dog toys, your dog shouldn't become bored with the same old toys.

Collie Pup with Stuffed Animal

What about the cost?

There's no doubt that dog toys can be expensive. If money is an issue, try looking at discount stores (their prices are lower). Pet stores have sales, too.

Toys are very important. Without something for your dogs to play with, they might choose the sofa, the kitchen table, or the screen door. The cost of those things are much higher than the cost of a few toys. Giving your dog things to do is well worth the money that they cost.