Oct. 28th is Plush Animal Lovers’ Day! Does your canine buddy absolutely love his plush toys? Fido is pretty adorable when he’s running after his favorite plaything! However, there are some things to keep in mind when it comes to giving your dog squeaky toys. A local veterinarian offers some tips on choosing your pup’s toys below.
Discarding Old Toys
Generally speaking, squeaky toys are not the most long-lasting dog toys. In fact, some pooches make pretty short work of them! Pay close attention to the condition of your canine companion’s toys, and repair or toss old ones. You’ll want to distract your playful pet by giving him a new toy while you do this.
Rotate
As the saying says, variety is the spice of life. Be sure to rotate your furry pal’s toys out regularly. You may want to do this when Fido is napping or outdoors.
Cleaning
Squeaky toys tend to get crusty and gross pretty quickly. Wash your furry pal’s things regularly. Toys that are in good condition can usually be machine-washed. However, you’ll want to check the label instructions to be sure.
Prey Drive
There are some concerns about squeaking toys and prey drive. Some dogs are just hardwired to go after small critters. That squeak, to Fido, sounds like something he or his ancestors would hunt in the wild. If you know or suspect that your canine buddy has a strong prey drive, ask your vet for tips on suitable toys and play strategies. Understanding your dog’s behavior is crucial, especially when introducing new elements to their environment. Speaking of which, if you’re considering adding another dog to your family, you might find our article on How to Introduce Two Dogs helpful.
Material
Material is also something to consider. Get into the habit of looking at labels. Opt for products that use non-toxic materials.
Squeakers
One of the big things about squeaker toys is the fact that some dogs eat the squeakers. This can actually be very dangerous! Squeakers can cause severe, and potentially fatal, intestinal blockages. If your canine pal does this, you may be better off getting him a different type of toy. If you aren’t sure how your pooch will react, supervise all play sessions carefully.
Benefits
Squeaky toys can be useful at times. For instance, they come in very handy if you’re trying to get Fido’s attention for a photograph! Many of them can also be great for older dogs, because they’re soft on the mouth.
Do you have questions about your dog’s health or care? Contact us, your vet clinic in Hobe Sound, FL! We’re here to help with all aspects of your pet’s well-being, from toy safety to healthcare. And if you ever need a safe place for your furry friend to stay while you’re away, check out our Pet Boarding services.
