Did you know the mental abilities of dogs are closest to a human child age 2 to 2.5 years? No wonder they love their toys!
But dog toys aren’t just for fun, they are essential for your dog’s health and happiness. You should think about providing your dog with three types of toys:
Dog toys for mental stimulation
Dog toys can help your pup learn new skills, stimulate their brains, and tire them out quicker than a 30-minute walk. They are also a way of giving your pup a safe, and controlled outlet for exploring their natural behaviours such as foraging and hunting.
The best toys for mental stimulation are interactive dog toys and puzzles. These toys are like giving your dog a crossword or sudoku puzzle. So, they will get a fantastic brain workout and have fun while doing it.
Interactive dog toys (like balls, ropes and flying discs) are great for building the bond between you and your pet, while also improving their agility and physical health.
We have an awesome range of interactive dog toys and puzzles that will keep your pup’s brain busy and their bodies happy for hours.
Dog toys for boredom
Dogs love to be with their pack and can get bored if left alone for extended periods of time. And we all know that a bored dog can sometimes turn into a bad dog! Dog toys are fantastic boredom busters and can prevent problem behaviours such as digging holes, excessive barking, and inappropriate chewing.
A great example of toys for chewers is the durable Kong®-type toys that work by putting crushed-up treats inside. Your pooch will be entertained for hours trying to get the treats out and won’t even notice the favourite pair of shoes you accidentally left lying around.
Check out our great range of dog toys for boredom that come in a variety of sizes and durability to suit both puppies and different breeds of dog.
Dog toys for comfort
Just like us, dogs can feel anxious, stressed, and lonely. They may miss you while you are at work, get nervous in storms, or when they are in a new place.
Comfort toys are a way of helping your dog feel calmer, happier, and more in control of their environment.
When choosing a comfort toy, look for one that suits your dog’s size, energy level and habits. Some dogs have a favourite soft toy that they will carry around with them. Others like to shake or "kill" their toys, particularly those that squeak!
Why do dog toys squeak? Playing with squeaky toys taps into your pup’s inner wolf, making them feel like they are chasing and capturing their prey. This can satisfy an innate need, particularly in terriers, sporting, and herding breeds.
Our range of safe, non-toxic comfort toys are a great way of helping your dog relax and feel safe and calm at home.
Be sure to buy toys of appropriate size for your dog. Toys that are too small can easily be swallowed or become lodged in your dog's throat.
Once you have found the perfect toys for your pooch, here are some tips to ensure they continue to be stimulating, safe and fun to play with for years to come.
How long do dog toys last?
Soft toys and squeaky toys are not indestructible, but some are made of super-tough fabric and are much more durable than others.
You should discard toys when they are ripped or starting to fall apart, including the squeaker if your dog manages to get it out of their toy.
Can dog toys be washed?
Rope toys and soft toys can harbor all sorts of microbes and need to be cleaned regularly. They can be cleaned in a washing machine using a normal wash cycle for heavier-duty dog toys, and a cold-water, delicate cycle for less robust toys (including those with squeakers, plastic parts, or crinkle material).
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