Guide to Choosing a Toy for Your Dog

Thinking of buying a new toy for your canine friend? Do it right and you could be doing more than just entertaining your pet, you could be ensuring a long, happy safe life.

Make sure you get a toy that is suitable to your dogs' size. Don't give your Pomeranian a plaything that a Doberman or Newfoundland would be happy mouthing. And visa versa. Both are choking hazards and decrease the pleasure of having a toy for a dog.

Remember to get toys that suit your dog's play-style. Terriers generally love things that they can chase and "kill"; settlers enjoy fetch games, and some dogs are just big on licking. Take the time to watch your dog and see how they like to play. Get down and play with them. Then get a toy that imitates the motions they like to do over and over again.

Don't buy cheap dollar store toys for your dog. Though it may seem as an inexpensive way to entertain Butch, most pet products in the dollar store are not really meant for the rough play that dogs can give them. The plastic is often flimsy and these toys can break easily, making them very easy to choke on or to be swallowed. Either way, this can result in an expensive trip to the vet.

Most ball toys, unless specifically made for dogs, are actually a danger. Do not take a competition grade tennis ball and let your dog play with it. Don't let Fido take off with your kids' flying disc or skipping rope either. Many veterinarians do not recommend toys with string/rope as the string may come loose and your dog may swallow it, resulting in knots in your dog's intestine. Again, this is not a desirable situation. Avoid it where you can.

Remember that the toys are really YOUR toys, not your dog's. Check the toys for wear and tear on a regular basis. Take them out of commission when they're starting to show breakdown. Replace the toys with something new on a regular basis, or rotate toys to keep your dog interested and playful.

Playtime can be a fun time with your pet. Make it stress free by ensuring that your pet's toys are safe too.