Trails and Tails...What to Pack for a Hike

 

Chews the Right Dog Toy

We’ve all been there – we walk into our local pet store and see the most adorable toy staring us right in the face.  What do we do?  Immediately purchase it, of course!  Then our excitement fizzles out when we get home and discover that our furry buddy gives it one sniff and says “no thanks.” 

Just like their parents, dogs have unique personalities and thus have their preferences for playtime. 

Toys play a crucial role in enhancing your dog's overall well-being. They combat boredom during your absence, offer solace during moments of anxiety, and can serve as effective tools in curbing problem behaviors before they arise.  The trick is knowing which toy to pair with your dog so Fido doesn’t turn your favorite handbag or shoe into his new favorite toy while you’re away.

Here are some things that you should consider when picking out a new toy for your furry companion:

1. How big is your pup?
   Keep in mind that most dogs like a toy that they can easily carry in their mouths. 

2. How old is your pup?
   While a pup loves to tug, shake, and toss toys around, a senior dog may prefer to chew or snuggle with their new favorite toy.

3. What is your pup’s personality?
   If your pup is the more active type, you’ll want to find toys that engage and stimulate him by keeping him busy for longer periods of time. For a more mellow pup, toys that are easier to toss and snuggle with may be more their style.

4. Does your pup get a kick out of squeakers?
   Is your furry friend more of a “hunter”? If so, then you’ll want to consider a toy that is designed to trigger that instinct. Even if the squeaking may drive you nuts as a parent. If you select a toy that has a squeaker, you’ll want to make sure that you supervise your pup’s play time to make sure they don’t accidentally (or intentionally) ingest the squeaker.

Matching Toys to Your Pup's Personality and Energy Level

Before you start filling your basket with all the fun, cute toys, be sure to consider what your pup enjoys doing the most or may need to occupy himself when his hooman companions aren't around to keep him company.

 

Fetchaholics – For the furry companion in your life that LIVES TO FETCH, you’ll want to look for toys that are both easy for you to throw and comfortable for your dog to carry back while running at full speed. Consider the Tall Tails Fetch Stick, fabdog Earth ball, or Chuckit! Classic Launcher.

Independent Players – If your pups like to toss or throw their own toys, you’ll want to select a toy that isn’t overly heavy or too large.  Think light and agile for your pup to hold the toy in his mouth, then toss and catch all in one swift motion. Some of the best options are toys that are ball shaped such as GoDog’s Dragon Toy, Fluff and Tuff’s Football or Fluff and Tuff’s Bunny.

Tuggers - Got a dog with a strong grip that wants to tug with all her might?  Look for toys with firm handles, longer bodies, and are comfortable in their mouths. While softer, fluffy toys will work (for a while until their stitching pops open), rope toys are the preferred style for the tug-of-war pup in your house. The Tall Tails Braided Infinity Toy or The Dharma Knotted Rope is a perfect choice.

Active Minds – Got a dog prone to boredom or gets anxious easily?  This is when a toy that provides mental stimulation and engagement not only helps calm your pup but also saves you from coming home to an unstuffed couch. The best toys for these dogs are often treat/reward based where the dog must solve a puzzle or interact with the toy to receive the reward. Check out the Pupsicle from Woof Pet or Outward Hound’s Dog Twister.

Snuggle Bugs - For the fur baby that likes to take it easy and curl up with their toys, consider grabbing one for them that is a bit rounder and a little firmer like a pillow.  This is when a larger stuffed toy can be the perfect pair for a good nap. Consider the Tall Tails Whale or   the Fluff Bunny from Fabdog.

Shakers – Shaking toys is normal behavior that mimics natural behaviors in the wild (like killing of prey). This instinctual action also serves as an outlet for energy and excitement. If your pup likes to shake their toys, choose one that has arms, legs, and/or a tail and flops but isn’t too firm. Less firm toys reduce the chance of harm to your furry pal and your home. Give the GoDog Checkers Chew Guard Skinny Rooster a try!

Sir Chews-a-Lot - Not all chew toys are good for your pup if they tend to be an aggressive chewer. Look for toys that are rated for aggressive or super chewers such as the Pupsicle Power Chewer, Canophera Coffee Tree Wood Chew Stick or the Stash Water Buffalo Bubba Chew. Always supervise a super chewer and remove any toy that becomes damaged and could present a choking hazard.

Making the Most of Your Pup's Toys and Play Time

Don’t forget to mix things up! Just like people, your pup will likely become bored with the same old toy so provide your furry friend with the opportunity to enjoy a variety of toys or a few toys that can serve multiple purposes. Try mixing up the type of toys they have available on a regular basis to keep things fresh. Keep a bin or basket in the closet and rotate toys every so often to keep play time exciting.  And if your pup has a favorite toy, consider having it available all the time (and always buy an extra one as a backup).

It's essential to include interactive toys in your dog's collection. Interactive playtime is vital for your dog as it provides valuable time for quality companionship, strengthening the bond between you and your furry friend. Consider incorporating balls, flying disks, and other toys that promote this special connection between human and pet.

Regardless of the toys, always be sure to provide a safe play environment for both you and your pup. 

We carry a large variety of toys here at EarthWise Pet and are ready to help you find the right toys for your furry friend!