Did you know that Spoil Your Dog Day is August 10th? We know, for some of you every day is Spoil Your Dog Day. One of the best ways to keep Fido’s cute tail going is to get him new toys. Playthings are great entertainment for Man’s Best Friend! They also keep him entertained, active, and, well, happy. However, there are some things to consider when picking your pup’s playthings. A London, ON vet lists some key ones below.

Squeakers

Many dogs find squeakers irresistible. That noise reminds Fido of the small critters he may hunt in the wild. However, some pups will go a bit too far here, and may actually try to eat the squeaker. If your canine pal does this, you’ll need to supervise him carefully when he’s using toys with squeakers. Also, opt for more durable toys, such as loofah ones. Your furry best friend may still pop the squeaky thing, but the odds of him tearing it out and swallowing it are much less. Ask your vet for specific advice.

Material

Material is also something to consider. We generally recommend checking the labels. Try to stick with products made in North America. Things manufactured overseas may not be subject to strict—or any—quality standards for pet products.

Size

It’s also important for you to choose toys that are the right size for your four-legged friend. Big pups can choke on playthings made for little pooches, while small dogs can hurt themselves on toys that are too big.

Purpose

Different toys fill different needs for dogs. A big, fluffy stuffed animal may be a comfort toy that Fido likes to snuggle up with in his crate. A puzzle toy may keep him occupied, while a rope toy or squeaker may just be fun for him to play with. Make sure your canine friend has a variety of things in his toybox!

Age

You’ll also want to consider your dog’s age. Puppies are basically adorable little chewing machines that want to gnaw on everything. Go for durable chew toys, such as Kong toys. Senior dogs, on the other hand, may need things that are soft on the mouth. An older pup may also prefer something that lights up, which would be easier to track.

Do you have questions or concerns about your dog’s health or care? Contact us, your London, ON animal clinic, today!