Choosing the Right Dog Toy: A Guide for Pet Parents

Toys are vital to your dog’s well-being because they provide mental and physical stimulation, avoid boredom when you have to leave them at home, and give comfort when they are in unfamiliar situations. They can even prevent your pet from developing certain problem behaviors, like inappropriate chewing. In short, toys are not a luxury but a necessity for your four-legged family member. To ensure they have the right toy, consider this article as your guide.

What Are the Different Types of Dog Toys?

Dog toys come in various types. These include the following:

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  • Active Toys

Active toys are effective in relieving stress and boredom for your dog. Since they are mostly used for fetching, chewing, and tugging, they are ideal for exercise. Some examples of this type of dog toy are tennis balls and hard rubber toys with rope or woven textures.

  • Distraction Toys

Distraction toys are used to keep your dog busy for hours. They are great for situations when a long-time division is necessary, like when they need to stay at home alone. They can come in the form of feeder-style toys or toys with large rubber shapes that can be filled with broken-up treats. In addition, they can help when your pup tends to eat food too quickly.

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When giving peanut butter as a treat, consult your veterinarian first and make sure it has no xylitol because it is toxic to dogs. Consider adding some crushed-up treats to let your pet enjoy a tastier snack.

  • Comfort Toys

Comfort toys are items that are designed to soothe your dog. They can be soft stuffed toys that are small enough to carry or large enough to prevent accidental swallowing. Dirty laundry that smells like you, such as an old t-shirt or blanket, can also be used to comfort your pet.

What Is an Ideal Toy for My Dog?

If you are looking for a toy for your dog that can last for years, consider West Paw Toys. They are constructed from a material called Zogoflex, a durable plastic made to be recycled.

What makes them ideal for your pet is all Zogoflex toys float, are lightweight, and are dishwasher-safe. They are also perfect for various activities, like chewing and fetching. Since their plastic material is strong, they are less likely to splinter or be a choking hazard.

What Are the Popular Zogoflex Toys?

Zogoflex toys have different types. Here are some varieties your dog can enjoy:

  • Fetch Toys

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There are Zogoflex toys that can be primarily used for fetching. Zisc Flying Disk throws like a Frisbee but has a softer material, while Bumi Tug Toy has an S-shape that makes it ideal for tugging. On the other hand, Tizzi Dog Toy has a unique shape that makes it perfect as a treat saver, fetch toy, or tug toy, and Jive Dog Ball is a brightly colored toy designed for throwing and retrieving from long distances.

  • Treat-Saving Toys

Zogoflex toys have different treat savers. Toppl Treat Toy requires your dog to nudge out treats, Tux Treat Toy can be frozen for a longer distraction time, and Qwizl Treat Toy can preserve the life of dog treats or provide entertainment without treats.

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  • Chew Toys

Hurley Dog Bone is a chew toy made of Zogoflex. Since it is very durable, it is safer than other toys your dog might chew. It also bounces, which makes it ideal for fetch.

Conclusion

As a pet parent, you are accountable for caring for your dog. Aside from providing them with healthy pet food and bringing them to the vet, part of this responsibility is giving them the right toy. Before buying pet supplies, consider the information in this guide to help you make a well-informed decision when purchasing dog toys.

If you need high-quality pet supplies in Ann Arbor, shop from Wags to Wiskers. Some dog toys we offer are West Paw, Happy Tails, Benebone, and more. Order by sending us an email at wagsordersannarbor@gmail.com, wagsorderschelsea@gmail.com, or wagsordersludington@gmail.com!