Finding the Best Types of Dog Toys for Your Pup.
Dogs love to play! That’s why dog toys are an important part of helping your pup thrive.
But the last thing you want is to spend a ton of money on a toy that your dog will barely even look at it.
So, how do you know the right toy to pick for your pup? Given the many toys available today, we understand why this decision can be confusing and even difficult.
Ready to see that tail wagging? Let’s help you pick a toy your dog will enjoy!
We’ll guide you through the different varieties of dog toys. We’ll also share tips on picking the best one and getting the most out of it.
What are the Different Types of Dog Toys?
The types of dog toys can vary based on factors like price, material, design, size, and function, the list is endless. To simplify it for you, we’ve divided these dog toys into four main categories, mainly based on their purpose. These four categories include:
1. Interactive Toys
Generally, interactive toys are dog toys that require the dog to interact with them in some way. But for this category, we’re also referring to the dog toys that require your participation. Such interactive dog toys are a great way to bond with your pup through fun play sessions.
You can also incorporate them into training sessions using fun dog training games. For example, a game of fetch can be a good way to bond and expend your dog’s energy. It can also be a fun way to engage your pup in obedience and recall training.
Some common dog toys that fall into this category are:
Rope toys
These are usually lengthy toys that feature a rope. You can hold on to one end, and your pup holds on to the other end for a fun game of tug of war. Rope toys are great for both indoor and outdoor play. Another plus is that you can use it to teach your dog the release command.
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Fetch toys
Ever wondered why dogs like fetch? It’s what they were born to do! That’s why fetch toys are a must have, especially if your dog loves to chase after things. While the tennis ball is the most classic dog toy when it comes to fetch, thankfully, dog toys have evolved over the years to give us more variety.
You’re now spoilt for choice when it comes to dog ball toys. They come in different shapes and materials, like hard rubber. Alternatively, you could also opt for flying discs or Frisbees, the choices are endless.
Floating toys
If your dog loves water, or if you want to get them interested in the water, consider these types of toys. They are designed to float and are great for playing fetch in the pool or even at the beach. A great choice for summer games with your fur baby!
2. Self-amusement Toys
These types of interactive dog toys don’t require your participation, for your dog to enjoy playing with them. They are designed to mentally stimulate your dog and keep them engaged. They're perfect for when you’re out of the house, or want to enjoy some quiet alone time, without your pooch getting bored.
Here are a few great choices:
Chew toys
Want to stop your dog from chewing on furniture and favorite shoes? Get them some chew toys. Dogs enjoy chewing on things as much as they enjoy chasing stuff. Chew toys come in as a great solution to distracting your dog and encouraging constructive chewing without damaging your home–or closet.
These toys come in many creative shapes, sizes, and materials. For example, there are dental dog chew toys designed to improve your dog’s breath and dental health. They’re also perfect for teething pups.
Also read: The best chew toys for pitbulls
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Treat dispensing dog toys
These are the best toys if your dog is stimulated by treats and rewards. They are a great way to keep your dog distracted while satisfying their instinct to hunt. There are many types designed with creative ways to hide your dog’s favorite treats.
Some of the best dog toys in this category include snuffle mats, dog lick mats, and hide and seek toys. Even some chew toys double as treat toys.
Puzzle toys
Puzzles are a great way to prevent boredom by mentally challenging dogs, especially if you have an intelligent dog. They are also the best dog toys to enhance your pup’s problem solving skills. Using puzzle feeders, for example, can help motivate your dog to solve the puzzle and also double as a treat dispenser.
3. Comfort Toys
Dog toys don’t always have to be stimulating and energizing. Some toys can be used to soothe your pup and ensure their comfort. Comfort toys like stuffed or plush toys are the best dog toys, especially if you have an anxious dog or if they love to cuddle. Plush squeaky toys can also double as comforting and stimulating.
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4. DIY Toys
Fun toys don’t have to be expensive. DIY toys can vary and fall in any category we’ve already mentioned. But we included it as a separate category for you, creative and craft pet owners who value homemade dog toys or are simply just looking to save a few coins. There are many ways you can convert items around your house into fun toys for your pooch.
You can turn your muffin tin into a puzzle feeder or create a ball from a bunch of old socks. You can also stuff an old t-shirt, turn it into a comforting plush toy for your pup when you’re not around. Your creativity is your only limitation!
Also, read our recommended best dog toys for a well-behaved and all-rounded dog
What Kind of Toys do Dogs Love the Most?
The best dog toys dogs will love are subjective to each dog. Not every dog will love every kind of toy. In an attempt to explain the science behind this, some researchers studied Labrador retrievers, among the world's most playful dog breeds.
Their findings suggested that dogs interact with their toys like wolves interact with prey. So, a dog will be more interested in a toy that squeaks, smells like food, and/or can be torn apart than in silent toys that are hard to chew on.
Although the findings are insightful, it’s still important to observe your dog to understand what type of toy it would enjoy most. In the meantime, here are some pointers that will encourage your dog to get the most out of their toys:
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Rotate the toys frequently – dogs get bored easily, so, exchanging the toys frequently and putting the rest away, can help keep the toys interesting.
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Change the scent of the toy – you can do this by cleaning the toy, rubbing it in grass, or applying another scent. This is a great way for making an old toy seem new again to your dog.
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Get involved in the playtime – dogs love playing with us. It doesn’t matter whether it’s an old toy or a new toy; as long as it means spending time with you, your dog will love it!
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Choosing the Right Toy For Your Dog.
According to dog experts like Ali Smith, when choosing a toy for your dog, you should consider what your dog’s breed was originally meant to do. For instance, if your dog’s breed was originally bred to retrieve things, then they would enjoy fetch toys a lot more.
Still, dogs can be picky about their toys. It’s important to find the right toy that will satisfy your dog’s stimulation and engagement needs. You should consider the following factors to help you make the right choice.
Age
Puppies can’t play with the same toys as adult dogs. Puppies are still developing and don’t have as much energy as a teenage dog. They require simpler games. Teen and adult dogs, on the other hand, would appreciate more challenging toys to help stimulate them and keep them engaged.
Size
Both your dog’s and the toy’s size matters. If the toy is too big, your dog, especially puppies or smaller breeds, may get frustrated playing with it. If the toy is too small, it could be a choking hazard, especially for larger dogs. For example, when shopping around for a dog ball toy, make sure it’s big enough to fit in your dog’s mouth so they can pick it up but not swallow it.
Chewing style
If your dog loves to chew on things, then you need to consider their chew style when selecting the best toy. For soft chewers like puppies, dogs with tooth sensitivity or senior dogs, a soft but durable chew toy made of soft rubber or tough cotton would be ideal. But for aggressive chewers, hard rubber toys are better for durability, even after several play sessions.
Durability
While on the topic of durable toys, the material of the toy matters. Nylon, hard rubber and thermoplastic elastomer are all strong, durable choices. You can find a lot of dog toys made with these materials. Also, consider the quality and how well the toy was made. For example, ensure the seams on plushy or squeaky toys are strong and won’t easily tear.
Ease of use
Dog toys need to be simple enough to figure out. If it’s too complex, your dog will lose interest quickly. Even so, some dogs do enjoy a challenge. So, consider your dog’s personality and interests when looking at the ease of use. Breeds like collies are known for their intelligence. They may appreciate brain games or puzzles more than retrievers, who love to chase and would prefer to play fetch.
Conclusion.
Dog toys aren’t a luxury, they are a necessity. The right toy can soothe and keep your dog entertained to avoid behavioral issues that may stem from boredom or anxiety. Choosing a good dog toy doesn’t have to be difficult, either.
Aside from applying the pointers we’ve shared with you, you can experiment with different toys until you find the one that makes your dog happy.
Looking for more things to keep your dog happy? Visit Spark Paws today and shop for the cutest apparel and accessories your doggo will love!