Toys
Durable toys for chewing, fetch and brain games, matched to your dog’s size and chewing strength.
For dogs, toys are not a luxury: they are the simplest way to burn off energy, satisfy the urge to chew and cut down on boredom-driven behaviour. A dog left alone without something suitable to work on will usually find shoes, cables or the corner of the sofa instead.
Choosing the right toy
- **Size:** Balls and chews must be too large to fit entirely in your dog’s mouth; swallowing is the most common toy accident.
- **Material:** Natural rubber or nylon for power chewers; softer, more flexible materials for gentle mouths and puppies.
- **Purpose:** Bouncy balls or flying discs for fetch, treat-dispensing puzzle toys for time alone, rope toys for tug games together.
Plush toys are much loved, but dogs that unpick seams can swallow the stuffing, so offer them under supervision. Very hard bone-shaped plastics and the felt on tennis balls can also wear teeth down over time.
Rotating toys weekly keeps interest high: leave three or four out, put the rest away and swap them every few days. Replace any toy that is cracking, splitting or shedding small pieces straight away. For teething puppies, rubber toys that can be chilled in the fridge noticeably soothe sore gums.
Common questions about Toys
My dog destroys every toy in minutes. What should I buy?
For power chewers, choose natural rubber or tough nylon toys labelled “extra durable”. Avoid plush and thin plastic, and supervise the first few sessions with any new toy.
What are puzzle toys good for?
Puzzle toys filled with kibble or treats tire your dog mentally, slow down fast eaters and ease boredom when they are home alone.
How often should toys be replaced?
There is no fixed schedule: replace any toy that cracks, sheds pieces or wears down small enough to swallow. Wash rubber toys regularly in warm soapy water.