When considering toys for any dog, bear in mind that not all dog toys are created equal. Many have varied purposes in mind and are designed to service a variety of play needs.
A toy’s purpose can range from an interactive puzzle style toy, a chew toy, a chew toy that can be filled with treats, to toys intended for throw-and-retrieve style play. It helps to consider the needs of the individual dog when selecting appropriate toys. A dog’s chewing and play needs are a vital component of the selection process. It is recommended that toys are used under supervision to ensure they are being used safely, especially with puppies and young dogs as their chewing temperament is still developing.
A dog’s chewing temperament is not necessarily predictable by the size, breed or age of the dog, so use these elements as a supplementary guide when making selections. Be sure to check out the safety precautions included within or on the toys packaging for recommended usage. Supervising toy play is recommended so that you are in the position to discourage chewing or gnawing on products that are not deemed fit for such behaviour by redirecting play towards products designed for chew style interaction.
As young dogs mature, they give you an indication of their developing chewing temperament. This can be gauged by observing the level of destruction and longevity of their toys. Some dogs, regardless of breed and size, can be very gentle on their toys which may last for years. Whilst other dogs may be tough on toys and destroy them with ease over a short period of time.
A dog's chewing temperament is a combination of the individual’s ability to apply heavy compression coupled with the motivation to do so. Even the gentlest dog can apply heavy pressure when motivated. Dogs, much like wolves, are social animals that use their jaws not only for eating but for social interactions with their pack or family members. During play, puppies are learning to inhibit the force of their bite. Puppies learn that play is more likely to continue if they aren’t too rough, therefore there is value in being gentle. Toys don’t provide the same feedback, so a dog can be as gentle or as rough as they like to derive enjoyment from the game. Many toys even channel natural instincts to catch, chase, shake and crush prey which may explain why some dogs become particularly stimulated by squeaky toys.
Dogs experience varied reactions to plush or squeaky toys. Some just love to gently compress the toys repeatedly to elicit the squeak while other dogs can become overly excited. During this excitement, toys suffer destruction.
Dogs will vary significantly in how they play and interact with different types of toys; some simply enjoy the act of carrying around a special toy, some dogs like to sleep with their favourite toy.
Then there are the dogs who derive great enjoyment from the act of pulling or tearing toys apart, even grinding them into little pieces and tearing out the internal stuffing. This is simply the nature of dogs which evolves as they mature.
There are three basic chewing styles when it comes to dogs and their toys.
- Gentle Chewers – These dogs are easy on toys and prefer plush or fabric toys. They usually like to lick or suck on their toys, but rarely ever destroy them.
- Average Chewers –These dogs love to play with all kinds of toys and will often carry toys around with them. They can be destructive with plush and fabric toys but rarely are destructive with rubber ones.
- Power Chewers – These dogs are usually strong, determined chewers who require more discretion when it comes to selecting toys. Choose durable, interactive play toys along with firm rubber toys. Sizing up above the recommended weight and size range can also be helpful when picking toys for dogs known to be powerful chewers.
Frequent inspection of dog toys is recommended. Always examine toys for wear and tear. Any toys showing signs of wear including holes or pieces tearing off should be discarded and replaced.
During the teething stage, puppies’ teeth begin to shed and are replaced by permanent adult teeth at about four to five months of age. The teething period can be frustrating and painful as the puppy clamps his mouth on everything within reach, from furniture to expensive shoes. This is an attempt to relieve discomfort.
Plush or material toys can be at risk from destruction during this phase. Be sure to select appropriate rubber toys that are gentle for growing teeth and jaws, this helps to promote entry of growing teeth. There are puppies however that can be tough on toys even from a young age so always select toy durability based on the individuals chewing temperament. Quality rubber toys are an excellent way of establishing healthy chewing habits.
When a puppy is found chewing on anything inappropriate (shoes, furniture etc.) these toys offer an excellent way to assist in redirecting the behaviour. This allows you to show the puppy what it can chew, rather than the focus being on what it shouldn’t chew. For added relief during teething many rubber chew toys can be filled with treats or dog food and frozen. This can provide added gum relief whilst chewing on the toy. Rubber chew toys made from natural rubber can help teach correct chewing behaviours that both satisfy natural instincts and prevent destructive chewing in the home.
Article by Rachael James, KONG Company Pty Ltd