Introducing a puppy to the family is an exciting time for everyone, and there’s a long list of things you need to have ready in time for their arrival.
If you’re an experienced dog owner, you’ll know your local pet shop like the back of your hand, and you’ll have a good idea of exactly which products to reach for.
As a first-time dog owner though, it can be a little daunting – especially when it comes to choosing dog toys.
You don’t want to end up with a basket full of toys that do nothing but gather dust because they don’t interest your furry friend – but how do you choose ones that they’ll actually like?
Here’s our expert guide on how to select the right toys for your brand-new fur baby.
Keep their age in mind
Your dog’s age is one of the most important things to consider when selecting toys for them to play with.
If you’re shopping for a three-month-old puppy, for example, you should stick with softer rubber or snuggly plush toys that won’t be too harsh on their growing baby teeth.
Your pup will chew anything they can get their paws on throughout their teething stage, so it’s important to stock up and encourage them to use them – especially if you want to keep their gnashers off your expensive designer trainers or corner sofa!
Once this phase has passed, your canine will have a strong enough jaw for harder rubber toys and endless energy to play with balls and rope pulls.
Pay attention to the size
The toys you choose should be appropriate for your dog’s current size. After all, the last thing you want to do is get something that’s too big and heavy for them to pick up – let alone play with!
A ball for example should be big enough for your pooch to carry and not so small that it becomes a choking hazard. As a general rule, steer clear of anything small enough to fit behind your dog’s rear molars.
Make sure they’re safe to play with
The number one criteria for choosing the best toys for your canine companion friend is safety.
As many dog owners are well aware, the most attractive things to our dogs are often the things that are most dangerous for them.
It’s important to make sure nothing can hurt them, and you should avoid or alter toys that aren’t ‘dog proof’, ensuring all ribbons, strings eyes and other parts that could be chewed or ingested are removed.
If you notice a toy starting to show signs of damage, like a faulty squeaker or tears in fabric and stuffing, it’s always best to replace it so that your pooch doesn’t swallow or choke on any broken pieces.
Shop top-quality dog & puppy toys at Pet Shop Online
Here at Pet Shop Online, we stock a wide variety of dog and puppy toys to take play times to the next level.
Our experts are always on hand to help you find the perfect toy to satisfy your picky pooch. We’ll also be more than happy to answer any of your questions.
Give us a call on 0161 728 4656 or send your query by email to shop@petexpressmanchester.co.uk, and we’ll get back to you as soon as we can.
If you’re local to Swinton or other nearby areas in Manchester, come and visit us in-store! We’re located just off the A580 (East Lancashire Road) and look forward to meeting you and your furry friend.
Get your directions here.
