Chewing and the Importance of Good Toys
I know, the title is a little silly, but I was truly at a loss for what to call this page. Chewing is such an essential part of your puppy’s life—and your dog’s too! The right toys are incredibly important, and some toys out there are just not safe. So let’s talk about why your puppy chews, and which toys are best for them.
Why Puppies and Dogs Chew
Puppies chew because they are teething, just like a baby. When they chew, it helps their teeth break through their gums. It feels good and soothes those tender gums. For older dogs, chewing helps keep their teeth clean, their gums healthy, and even strengthens their jaw muscles.
Having the right toys for your puppy or dog is so important. Some toys are too thin and flimsy and can be easily destroyed, posing a choking hazard. Others are thick and durable, almost indestructible, and are a much better option. Remember, some toys are designed just for puppies, while others are meant only for bigger dogs.
The Squeak Factor
Most puppy or dog toys squeak, and let me tell you, they LOVE it! Me? Not so much. There’s one toy around here that is so loud, it drives me crazy! Do not worry, I no longer stock that one. All the toys I sell have been rigorously tested to make sure they are not only safe, but that your puppy or dog will love them. I particularly like the hard rope braids, no squeak, just pure chewing fun! They also make great fetch toys, and trust me, every dog I have ever seen loves them.
Plastic and Rubber Toys
Let’s talk about plastic and rubber toys. Thin plastic or rubber can be shredded by a puppy in no time, turning it into a choking hazard. Yes, I have seen it happen, and it is scary! These types of toys are really best for dogs that are past their hardcore chewing stage. Puppies, however, need something thicker and more durable.
The thicker toys, like Nylabones or Kongs, are much safer. But I have to be honest, I am not a fan of Kongs. Sure, it’s fun to watch a dog try to get food out of it, but the inside of those toys is full of germs. I cannot believe they are still on the market. People even fill them with peanut butter—nasty! Imagine leaving a Kong filled with peanut butter for your dog before heading to work, and when you come home nine hours later… yuck! That peanut butter, which is bad for dogs to begin with (aflatoxins, anyone?), is now a germ-filled mess.
Are you sanitizing the Kong thoroughly? Even if you washed it in hot soapy water, I don’t think it’s possible to truly disinfect it. Let’s just skip Kongs altogether!
Nylabones: A Word of Caution
Now, I have a problem with most Nylabones too. Many of them are treated with chemicals to make them smell like beef or chicken to entice your dog. Chemicals! This is not necessary. If you must use Nylabones, opt for the plain, untreated ones. Better yet, find another safer alternative.
Stuffed Toys: Safe and Fun
I love stuffed toys for puppies and dogs. They are soft, they squeak, and dogs adore them. These are very safe for puppies. While I have seen bigger dogs, like my daughter’s Boxer, rip open a stuffed toy, it doesn’t pose the same kind of choking hazard that plastic or rubber toys do. They won’t chew on the stuffing like they would on plastic.
Small breed dogs or puppies rarely rip open stuffed toys, so they are perfect for our little fur babies. Plus, stuffed animals come in all shapes, sizes, and colors. You can find them shaped like balls, bones, or even your favorite animal! I sell these too, and you can choose from a variety on my website or when you pick up your puppy.
Final Thoughts
Chewing is essential for your puppy’s development and well-being, so make sure they have the right toys. Stay away from flimsy plastics and chemical-laden bones. Choose safe, durable, and fun options like the ones I have available. Your puppy will thank you, and so will their teeth and gums!
