Safe Toys For Dogs And Why To Avoid Tennis Balls And Sticks #226
Aug 16, 2023
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Discover the dangers of using tennis balls and sticks as dog toys, including choking hazards, toxicity, and tooth wear. Learn about safer alternatives and how to select appropriate toys for your dog. Find out about the benefits of interactive toys and guidelines for playing fetch safely.
Teach dogs good toy habits and avoid bad chewing habits by using interactive toys and picking up toys when there is a puppy around.
Avoid using sticks as toys for dogs due to potential dangers and instead use rubber Kong sticks or specially made tennis balls for dogs.
Deep dives
Importance of Good Toy Habits
It is important to teach dogs good toy habits, such as not chewing on toys meant for play. The speaker emphasizes the use of interactive toys that can be brought out for special play sessions with the puppy. Toys should be easily accessible for dogs to grab, and toy bins can be placed around the house. The speaker suggests picking up toys when there is a puppy around to prevent them from forming bad chewing habits.
Preferred Toys for Interactive Play
The speaker recommends using small toys attached to a bungee for interactive play and retrieving games. These toys allow for a game of tug after the dog fetches them. They provide a form of exercise for dogs that is both fun and strengthens the bond between the dog and the owner. Additionally, longer toys that can be dragged on the ground are effective for engaging puppies or timid dogs in interactive play.
Toys to Avoid: Sticks and Tennis Balls
The speaker strongly discourages the use of sticks as toys for dogs, citing the potential dangers of impalement or splintering. She explains that sticks can be turned into toys, but recommends using rubber Kong sticks instead. The speaker also advises against using regular tennis balls due to potential choking hazards, toxicity of materials, and abrasiveness to dogs' teeth. If using a ball, she suggests using road hockey balls or tennis balls specifically made for dogs. Interactive toys are preferred, as they build a stronger bond and offer more interaction compared to just throwing a ball.
All dogs deserve toys, and all people with dogs deserve to know as much as possible about toys. I’m covering my favorite dog toys, how I used them, and why to avoid the two most popular for dogs. My house is a treasure trove of toys, and I’m sharing who they are for and when. Plus, we’re looking at toy selection to protect you and your dog from harm and tips for playing fetch safely.
In this episode you’ll hear:
• My top dog toys and toys to avoid. • How I make toys available to my dogs. • About good toy habits for puppies. • Criteria I have for selecting dog toys. • The two categories of toys for training. • About using toys for rescue dogs or puppies to boost confidence. • The dangers of dogs playing with sticks and tennis balls. • Why I created my “Bring Me” program to teach dogs to retrieve. • That North America lacks toxicity guidelines for dog toys. • The safer options of Kong tennis balls and play sticks for dogs. • Why a renowned Veterinary dentist recommends road hockey balls. • Safety tips and suggestions for playing fetch with dogs with balls. • Why to avoid Dollar Store dog toys.
*Amazon Links Disclosure: As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
Susan only recommends products she uses herself, and all opinions expressed here are her own. The link above is an affiliate link that, at no additional cost to you, we may earn a small commission if you decide to buy from it. Thank you!
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