Precious Puppy Playtime
We all love new gizmos and gadgets! This holiday season, you may be hoping for a new car, a new video game, or accessories to complement a hobby. But don't forget about your puppy's needs! Better yet, find dog toys for the both of you to enjoy. Playtime with your pup is an important part of bonding between you and your furbaby. The best puppy toys are an excellent way to interact with your pooch while also providing mental stimulation and promoting independence. Not only do toys help keep your dog occupied in their alone time, but playtime also provides exercise and helps build trust. Plus, dog toys create a positive outlet for behavior that could become destructive when done without guidance or supervision.
How to Select the Right Dog Toy For Your Puppy
When selecting toys for your dog, consider their size, breed, energy level, and personality in order to find the most appropriate match. Toys that are designed for smaller breeds should not be given to a larger dog. Choosing the perfect dog ball is a great example to think of. A good rule of thumb is that a ball should not be smaller than your dog's mouth when wide open. Any smaller and it could be a choking hazard, but any bigger and it may be too big to latch on to making it a useless toy.
Don't forget to buy the best puppy treats as well! Snacks and treats will encourage exploration and learning while they play; some toys even require the use of treats to achieve their real purpose. Be mindful of what each toy is meant to be used for. Combining rewarding food with rewarding toys is a wonderful idea, and there are even creative food games that you can play with your dog.
Benefits of Playing With Puppy Toys
The benefits of playing with puppy toys extend beyond just having fun. Dog toys help challenge problem-solving skills that stimulate their minds, which can help reduce boredom and anxiety levels in pets. Additionally, chewing on certain materials can help keep teeth clean and healthy while strengthening jaw muscles. Dog toys are also beneficial for keeping our canine companions fit; running after balls or chasing flying discs helps them stay active and in shape during playtime sessions outdoors. Doing so regularly could potentially mean fewer trips to the vet due to health problems that stem from lack of exercise or obesity-related issues later on in life.
Making sure your puppy is happy & healthy should be at the forefront of your mind beyond the utility of toys. Always take an extra moment to research the materials and manufacturing of any toy you might buy. Unfortunately, there is no organization established that regulates this. It is up to you to make sure you are avoiding certain substances that are harmful to your dog's health like phthalates, lead, and formaldehyde.
Bond With Your Puppy Through Dog Toys
Ultimately, playtime should be an enjoyable experience for both you and your pet - it’s not just about giving them something new to play with but rather providing moments where you can bond together through activities that are both fun and mentally stimulating. Introducing toys into your pup's daily routine is one of the best ways you can show your appreciation for their love and loyalty; it encourages bonding time between you two while providing ample mental stimulation for your puppy at the same time - all without breaking the bank, especially if you make DIY mentally stimulating dog toys! So don't hesitate to show off your creativity when picking out new items for them. Make sure every toy brings hours of fun-filled entertainment for both parties involved!
The American Kennel Club's Five Toy Categories
Training toys
If you have a brand-new puppy in your home, then you must ensure it has something to do at all times! Keeping up with their curiosity is easy when you have a list of toys that you can bring out. Just like any person, we can't always expect perfection from our furry friends. Help your puppy avoid mischief like chewing up your shoes and socks by offering an acceptable chewing option like one of the options below.
1. WEST PAW Zogoflex Bumi Dog Tug Toy (S Shape)
Spoil starts with an S, and there is no better toy to give your dog than this WEST PAW Zogoflex Bumi Dog Tug Toy. The S-Shape creates an easy grip feature for any dog owner while offering protection from eager mouths. Made from patented material, it can stretch without stretching out and is both safe and easy for your dog to chew on. Play tug-of-war or throw it like a frisbee during a game of fetch! ($20)
2. ZiggyPaws Skinny Pelts
Treat-dispenser/enrichment toys
This group of toys will help keep your puppy's brain busy and engaged. At the same time, the built-in reward systems make these toys highly preferred and essential to have around. Mental stimulation is just as important for the development of your puppy as it is for you and your own children. Give your puppy something extra exciting with one of these 2 popular enrichment puppy toys.
3. Kong Classic Dog Toy
The Kong Classic Dog Toy is iconic in the dog toy industry. Its shape and material allow it to bounce unpredictably to imitate the motion of a small animal to chase. The hollow inside provides a space to fill with yummy treats, which makes this toy extra rewarding for your dog. Help support your dog’s mental stimulation and prevent boredom with one of Kong’s different-sized classic toys. ($10 to $15)
4. PetSafe Tug-A-Jug: Treat-Dispensing Dog Toy
Looking for a multi-faceted toy to keep your dog entertained and engaged? The PetSafe Tug-A-Jug has you covered! This toy is uniquely designed with a rubber ball with little nubs that make it perfect for chewing and includes a braided rope for pups to pull to lift the ball to release treats! Your pooch is sure to love this toy whether he plays alone or needs you to interactively play. ($22)
Interactive toys
Although cuddling with your puppy is sure to be on the top of your to-do list, so should playing with him! Interactive toys will offer you opportunities to work on commands and obedience training and give you and your pooch a chance to exercise and enjoy each other's company.
5. TUMBO Tough Tug Rope
Tug-of-war ropes are a classic toy and we could argue that every dog needs one. The TUMBO Tough Tug Rope is simple which makes it perfect for a game as straightforward as tugging back and forth. It includes a handle so you can easily grip your end of the rope. Being 5 feet long also protects you from jerking and excessive strength that your dog might exhibit. Every large knot is a great place for your dog to latch onto. The fringe ends are there to give your pooch a little extra something to nibble on. ($15)
6. Chuckit! Fetch Ball with Launcher
The ChuckIt! Fetch Ball with Launcher dog toy features balls that are designed with grooves and made in different sizes to make sure your puppy has no problem picking it up off of the ground. The launcher makes it easy for any owner to avoid body aches and pains; there is no need to constantly bend down or throw a ball super far. It also makes fetch more enjoyable since you don't need to touch a slimy, slobbery ball over and over. This toy is a must-have, especially for larger high-energy dog breeds that need to stretch those long legs and run more than the average dog. ($9)
Self-amusement toys
If your puppy likes to be a little more independent, or if you need to keep him busy while you get chores done, consider a self-amusement toy! They are usually stronger and more durable than other toys and should be mentally stimulating. Dogs are problem-solvers by instinct; they just need the right problems to solve!
7. OurPets Sushi Puzzle Toy
Imagine you are in the kitchen (or making sushi!) and your dog is begging for attention. How will you keep him or her entertained? The OurPets Sushi Puzzle Toy is the perfect solution. Simply hide some treats under the little plastic tops and let your dog sniff and dig around for some goodies! This toy is durable and is best used in suitable moments like this. Try it out with your puppy to keep its mind active and tummy happy. ($15)
8. Nina Ottosson Puzzle Game Dog Ball
Comfort toys
Even though playtime is generally thought to be very active and a bit rambunctious, there are still toys out there with calming benefits. This group of toys is perfect in case your pup isn't interested in the Netflix show you're watching but still needs something relaxing to do. Comforting toys are designed with softer materials and may include different features that help promote a peaceful environment.
9. SmartPetLove Snuggle Puppy Toy (with Heartbeat and Heat Pack)
For those puppies with separation anxiety or troublesome behaviors, the SmartPetLove Snuggle Puppy Toy is a lifesaver. This toy is highly recommended to accompany your puppy during crate training. It does require batteries that are kept safe inside the toy to guarantee your furbaby isn't biting into anything harmful, and all materials are certified safe for human use. Disposable heat packs are sold separately but will allow your pup to enjoy all of the benefits this toy has to offer, making it a top-of-the-line product for every puppy that needs it.
10. Wooly Snuffle Mat
Textured mats like these are a great addition to any doggy home. The cotton strands of the Wooly Snuffle Mat imitate grass and provide a comfortable place for your dog to rest. Also, you can hide little treats inside them to give your dog a chance to sniff them out and forage like their wild ancestors. Various colors let you match the mat to your own home's interior design so your dog can snuggle in comfort and in style. Wooly mats are a great way to give your beloved pet bedding that can serve as a toy all at the same time! ($40)
Pawrade Exclusives
11. Fetch and Tug Tennis Ball Toy
Our amazing 2-in-1 tennis ball toy lets you play fetch and tug-of-war in the same play session! The durable handle makes it easy to tug while your pup snatches the tennis ball, as most dogs love to do! And when you win the round, you can use the handle to swing and launch the toy for your dog to run and retrieve. You will never have to touch a wet tennis ball again!
12. The Squeaky Paw Toy
Our logo makes this squeaky toy different from the rest. The outsides are soft and silent, but as soon as your dog gets a mouthful of this toy, it is bound to squeak and make your dog's happiness peak! Made with safe material and a plush exterior, make your Pawrade puppy joyful this holiday season with Pawrade's Squeaky Paw toy.
Send us a picture of your Pawrade Puppy to any of our social media channels for a chance at free merchandise like these toys! @Pawrade
A Toy For Thee Is a Toy For Me
Your puppy is an integral part of your life. Some things can feel like a chore, but truly they should be cherished! Any of these toys will guarantee that tending to your dog's needs is never something you have to do, but instead something you get to do. We are excited to be a part of your holidays in any way possible. If you need help ending this year on a high note or starting 2023 strong with a new puppy, contact one of our concierge assistants today. View our puppies for sale and let the paw-tying begin!
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