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Safer Dog Toys
from: Kyle BesserThe things that usually attract the attention of dogs are often things that are potentially dangerous to them. To dog proof your home, check for string, ribbon, rubber bands, children's toys, pantyhose and anything else that could be swallowed.
There are many factors that contribute to the safety or danger of a dog toy. Many of these factors are dependent upon the dog's size, activity level and play style. After you get to know your dog better, you will learn to judge the type of toy that will spark your dog's enthusiasm, but safety should be the first concern.
Safety Guidelines
*Toys should be appropriate for your dog's current size. Balls and other toys that are too small can easily be swallowed or become lodged in your dog's mouth or throat.
*Before you give your dog a child's toy, dog proof that toy by removing ribbons, strings, eyes or other parts that could be chewed off and swallowed.
*Monitor your dog's toys and discard any toy that starts to break into pieces or has pieces torn off by your dog.
*Ask your veterinarian about the safety of items such as bones, hooves, pig's ears and rawhides. Hard rubber toys might be a better option since they are safer and last longer.
*Observe your dog with any toy that has a squeaker. Some dogs feel the need to find and remove the squeaker, which could then be swallowed. If this is the case, squeaking toys should only be given when you are there to supervise.
*Check labels for child safety before giving your dog a child's stuffed toy. A stuffed toy that is labeled as safe for children under three years of age that does not contain dangerous fillings is probably safe for dogs. Problem fillings include things like nutshells and polystyrene beads. Even a "safe" stuffing is not truly digestible, so if your dog tends to swallow fillings, you might not want to give your dog stuffed toys.
*Soft toys are not indestructible, but some are sturdier than others. Soft toys should be machine washable.
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