The Truth About Dog Chew Toys
Most dogs actually need and will appreciate dog chew toys, as they usually can find fun with toys. For you as a dog owner, these toys can help manage your dog's natural inclination to keep on chewing. If you select the right toys, you can keep your dog away from things in the house which you do not like him to gnaw. Besides, chewing can also encourage teeth and gum health and can relieve anxiety and boredom. So, what exactly you should look for when choosing chew toys?
Proper Size
Different dogs are in different sizes, and you should choose just the right size toy for your dog. If the toy is too big, many dogs do not want to play with it at all. On the other hand, however, if the toy is too small, you dog might accidentally swallow it and choke on it. So, you really should know about your dog's breed and size very well to pick the right toy size. Fortunately, many reputable dog toy manufacturers often have detailed description on the toy label to help you decide if the toy is for your pet.
Security Considerations
Needless to say, the safety features of the chew toys should be thoroughly considered when you choose them. Dependent on your dog's breed, a chew toy that is too hard might damage his teeth. If the toy is too soft, however, it might bring about accidental ingestion of torn or chipped parts. It is a general rule that you should avoid chew toys with small beads, buttons, strings, wire, bells and fake fur. Even a mild-tempered dog could rip off small parts and swallow them, resulting in choking, mouth wounds, and damage to the intestines and constipation.
Appropriate Variety
It would not be such a good idea to have a whole box of dog chew toys but you should at least have a handful of them. Dogs do eventually get bored if they only have one kind of chew toy. To avoid this, you should rotate chew toys. It would also be a good idea to occasionally give your dog chew toys with edible treats in them. This will encourage your dog to play with them.
Keep an Eye on the Dog and Toys
Chew toys are not pet nannies so you should at least keep an occasional eye at your dog while he is at play. This will help you respond faster in case your dog is about to ingest a non-edible part.
You also have to keep an eye at the toys. Even the sturdiest toys have a limit to their lifespan. Periodically inspect your dog's toys and look for signs of wear and tear. Damages to the toy might already be a sign that you may have to replace it. Otherwise you could put your dog's health and life at risk.
Ask Your Veterinarian
Whenever you want a second opinion, your veterinarian should be the first person you ask about. He might even be able to recommend good toy brands and retailers.
All dog owners would like to see their dogs happy and healthy. Giving your dog chew toys is one of the best ways to show him your love and affection. You just need to make sure, with the tips in this article, that the toys you choose are not just entertaining but are safe as well.
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