Does your canine buddy love to chew? Chewing is actually very beneficial
to dogs. It helps keep Fido’s teeth clean, and makes his jaws strong.
Chewing also helps soothe the pain of teething in puppies, and can keep
your furry pal occupied and happy. There are some specific things to
keep in mind when choosing your pup’s chew toys, however.
Choosing Toys
If your dog is a low-to medium intensity chewer, he may enjoy rope
toys, dental chews, or bone-hard toys. If your canine buddy is a chewing
machine, look for durable toys that he won’t destroy immediately, such
as rubber toys. Seniors and puppies may prefer softer toys.
Physical Safety
Chew toys that are too small for your dog or that break apart easily
can pose serious choking risks. Check package recommendations for size
guidelines. You can also gauge whether a toy is the right size by
looking at Fido’s mouth when he yawns. Make sure the toy is too big for
him to swallow! We also recommend avoiding toys with just one hole, as
these can create dangerous suction traps that can hurt your furry
friend’s tongue.
Toxic Materials
Unfortunately, there are no regulations in place for pet toys, so
it’s up to you to choose safe playthings for your canine friend. While
there is no way to guarantee that any specific toy is safe, there are
some precautions you can take. As a general rule of thumb, choose toys
that are free of PVC, phthalates, and lead. Try to avoid toys made
overseas, as they could contain harmful ingredients. Toys that have been
heavily dyed or treated with fire retardants or stain guard are on the
no-no list as well. Bones, sticks, stuffed toys, and certain plastics
can also be very dangerous. Do some research, keep up with recalls, and
choose toys made of safe, non-toxic materials.
Tips
Always supervise your canine pal when he’s chewing, and replace
Fido’s toys when they start looking worn or icky. To disinfect your
pet’s chew toys, seal them in a plastic bag and freeze them for a few
days before giving them back to your furry friend. Ask your vet for more
advice on choosing appropriate chew toys for your pup.