DOG TOYS

Dogs need playthings of their own to play with or they will find their own toys. Some of the "toys" they seem to find for instance are shoes, clothing articles, pillows, and children's stuff animals. When a new or young dog is given toys, they then begin to learn what he is allowed to chew on and play with. Along with this training is also what is off limits to your dog. There will always be a learning period involved with this. Mostly likely, your dog will try to venture off and destroy items before he gets the right idea. By providing your dog or puppy with their own toys, you are starting them out on the right path, not the wrong path.

Dog Toys should be appropriate for your dog's size. Balls and other toys that are too small can easily be swallowed or become lodged in your dog's mouth or throat. Dog-proof your home. Check for ribbons, rubber bands, string, marbles, children's toys and anything else your pet may easily swallow.

Not all dog toys you see in the pet stores are suitable of all pets. These toys are graded in different ways. Some you may notice some are intended for the larger breed dog, medium sized dog and then for the smaller dog. Since certain small and medium sized dogs have strong jaws, make sure to look for toys that are graded by the durability rather than for the size of the dog. Ask your veterinarian about which rawhide toys are safe and which aren't. Unless your veterinarian says otherwise, you should supervise these chewy like toys such as hooves, pig's ears and rawhides. Very hard rubber toys are safer and last longer.

Never give your dog any type of wooden chewable objects as they splinter and can create problems for your dog. Instead, let your dog chew to its hearts content on a hard, rubber bone. Some of these rubber bones have a bounce to them and it also helps to stimulate your dog. Giving your dog chicken or pork bones will also cause more damage than good to your pet. These types of bones will splinter and will cause damage to the dog's teeth, mouth and stomach. Nylon bones or cooked bones with marrow are also a good chewing resource. Your dog should have a lot of types of toys; however give him just one at a time and put it away before giving him another.