The Importance of Dog Toys for Your Furry Friend’s Health and Happiness

Welcoming a furry friend into your life is all cuteness and happiness, but it’s also a huge commitment. As a paw parent, you’re responsible for the well-being and happiness of your pup, and it takes more than providing healthy food and regular grooming. Proper dog care involves fun, too. 

Yes, that’s right; dogs need fun and entertainment to stay healthy. One way to show appreciation to your beloved furry pal is to buy them dog toys. They offer numerous benefits that can enhance both their mental and physical health. But finding the right options can be a challenging experience, so here are some of the most common ones on the market to help you narrow down your selection.

Different Types 

• Chew Toys: Typically, they’re used for teething puppies and dogs that love to chew. Giving your dog a chewing toy can help them learn how to chew easily and keep their paws away from household items.

• Squeak Toys: A squeaking toy can activate your canine companion’s predatory instinct and provide an appropriate solution for the behaviour. They’re especially great for pups that enjoy a good bite and shake during play.

• Rope Toys: They’re suitable for dogs that like to play tug, hold and retrieve objects. Plus, they’re great for pups of all ages. 

• Plush Toys: They’re a must-have regardless of the dog’s age or breed. Soft plushies are perfect for puppies as they provide them with a sense of comfort, but older dogs love them too. They often carry them around and cuddle up to them when falling asleep. However, if your furry friend is a heavy chewer, it may be a good idea to keep these away.

The Benefits They Offer

Bonding Experience

Squeaky balls and ropes help build a stronger bond between you and your pup. Playtime doesn’t always need to be a structured session focused on commands and rewards. The important part is to stay active together and have fun as a team. Even 15 minutes of playtime by day can be enough to keep your dog happy, reinforce your relationship and make you both have fun and respect each other at the same time.

Exercise

Many dog toys help promote physical activity in dogs. Throwing a ball, for instance, is one of their favourite activities, and if done at least once a day, it can serve as a form of exercise that is beneficial for your furry friend. 

Normal Weight Levels

Unfortunately, the number of overweight or obese dogs in Australia and around the world is on the rise. It’s an issue that can’t be overlooked as obesity is a serious problem for dogs, increasing the risk of chronic health problems, including arthritis, hypertension, kidney disease, diabetes and more. Playtime can help your dog maintain a healthy weight and extend their lifespan.

Mental Stimulation

Just like us, our pets can get bored, too. Boredom in dogs can lead to destructive or restless behaviour, like tearing up the house or making a mess when left alone. When they’re engaged with toys, their mental efforts are focused on the object they’re playing with. Chew toys, especially squeaky models, are some of the most popular options for stimulating a dog’s mind and can calm them down. 

Healthier Teeth

Chewing toys specifically designed for dogs can benefit their dental health. They can gradually chip away plaque and tartar, two of the most common conditions in dogs, which, if not properly treated, can lead to more complicated diseases, like gingivitis and periodontal disease. Just keep in mind that chewing toys are not a replacement for regular dental cleaning.

Better Rest

Playtime can help your furry friend feel sleepy and settle into a more relaxed state. This works well for pups who are full of energy and need a bit of extra help winding down before sleep.

How to Choose the Right Ones?

Consider your furry friend’s breed, as different breeds have different energy levels. A terrier might enjoy a chew toy, while a herding breed dog may go adorably crazy chasing a ball. 

It’s also important to understand your dog’s favourite play style. Try different options to see what your furry pal likes to play with the most. Choosing toys they love can make them more excited to join in and play with you.

Remember to select toys for dogs of the appropriate size. If the toy is too small, it can pose a choking risk, while if it’s too large, your pup might find it difficult to play with. And always remember that worn-out or damaged toys need to be replaced. Even if it’s your dog’s favourite, make sure to replace it with a new one.

Final Thoughts

Finding the right toys for your dog can be beneficial for their well-being and happiness. They play a big role in your dog’s daily routine and deserve a place on your list of must-have dog gear. So, choose ones that match their personality and keep them excited to play every day.