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Choosing Age-Appropriate Toys for Your Dog
Apart from being fun, toys are an important part of a dog’s life. Especially while they’re young, toys teach puppies how to explore, problem solve, and entertain themselves.
With so many options available, choosing the right toy for your pup can be quite overwhelming!
What To Consider When Choosing a Dog Toy
Under 16 Weeks
At this age, it’s important to introduce toys with different textures and sounds to help them explore and get used to variety.
As your pup will still have their baby teeth, look for toys that are soft and light. Choose a size that is appropriate for your pup. A toy that is oversized might be too hard for your pup to play with and one that is too small carries a risk of being swallowed.
This period is also a good time to start encouraging them to explore by hiding treats inside or under toys.
Between 4 - 9 Months
Your puppy is likely to start teething so it’s a good idea to continue to avoid toys that are too hard. Instead opt for softer rubber and don’t get too attached to any toys, they are likely to get damaged while your pup is teething!
During this time as your puppy matures, they’ll get stronger and have more energy. Consider investing in some interactive tug toys, puzzle toys, frisbees and balls. Again, consider those that are not too heavy or hard for their teeth and gums.
Over 9 Months
Your pup is almost fully grown! They have all their adult teeth and their joints are almost fully developed. During this time, they’ll also appear to have limitless energy and will therefore need a variety of interactive toys to keep them stimulated. This is the time when pups with a tendency to chew or destroy things will benefit from tougher toys.
Check if they have outgrown any of their old puppy toys and dispose or donate them. This removes the risk of your dog destroying or accidently ingesting the smaller toys.
Consider treat dispensing toys to keep them mentally stimulated and tug toys to encourage engagement with you. To keep their new adult teeth nice and healthy, it’s also time to invest in some dental toys.
Over 7 Years
Even though your dog may now be considered a senior, toys are still an important part of keeping them active and mentally stimulated. Look for plush toys or toys with softer rubber so that it does not damage their teeth. Consider also incorporating more puzzle and treat toys into their daily activities.
While your dog may still love to chase, play fetch or jump, consider taking it easier with shorter sessions or sessions with less intensity. This will be better for their joints as they age.
Be mindful of giving your pup children’s toys as they may contain small parts and materials that are toxic to dogs. Most dogs toys have been created especially for dogs and are therefore sturdier and made of more natural materials.
No matter how old they are, your dogs will always need toys that will encourage their instincts and mental health. Keep things interesting by rotating their toys often so they always have something new and different to play with!
