Choosing the Right Chew Toys

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.

Preventative Medicine

Preventative medicine is one of the best ways to care for your pet and keep them living a long and healthy life. We recommend physical exams twice annually for all patients. Routine visits allow us to keep track of your pet’s health as well as address any questions you may have about your pet.

Please contact our office 850-668-8031 if you have any questions about our services.
www.northamptonanimalclinic.com

Start the New Year right

Start the new year right and schedule your pets exam with us Northampton Animal Clinic: 850-668-8031