Page 297 - The Complete Dog Breed Book Choose the Perfect Dog for You, New Edition (DK)

PREP ARING F OR ARRIV AL 297

TOYS FOR
YOUNG PUPPIES
Soft toys are best for young
puppies who have not yet grown
a set of adult teeth. A puppy is
likely to go through several toys,
so don’t buy expensive ones.

Soft
toys

Rope
tugger

Puppy with Chewable
chewable rubber toys
rubber ring

TOYS FOR OLDER PUPPIES TOYS FOR ADULT DOGS
As puppies get older, they will chew Adult dogs also love toys and appreciate
vigorously and need more durable those with a variety of textures and
toys. Thick rope tuggers or toys with a materials. Harder toys are best, because they
combination of rope and chewable rubber will withstand chewing by a mature dog’s
Rubber and are a good choice and last a long time. full set of teeth.
rope bone

Buying toys time and are useful if you are too busy to play. Dogs that
Toys provide a dog with mental stimulation and something are dedicated chewers can often be kept out of mischief with
permissible to chew on. Used for games or during training rubber toys, which are very durable, or the ranges of rubber
sessions, they are great for encouraging a dog to interact toys that are designed to be stuffed with food. Most dogs
with his owner. When buying toys, choose only those that are have favorite toys, and you will soon get to know which ones
specially designed for dogs. Children’s toys are a dangerous your dog likes best.
substitute since they may have small pieces that a dog can
chew off and swallow. Never leave your dog alone with his TOP TIPS
toys for long periods; even playthings that are meant to be
chewed, such as rawhide bones, can be a choking hazard. ■ Playing with a tug toy is a
great way to train a puppy not to
Soft toys are best for young puppies while they still have mouth at your hand. Offer to play
their baby teeth. As puppies get older and begin teething, with him but end the game as soon
they are more likely to chew, and at this stage stronger toys as his teeth meet your hand.
such as rope tuggers are the best choice. Once your dog is ■ Use food-dispensing toys
an adult, choose toys with a variety of textures and shapes. to keep your dog entertained if
you have to leave him alone for
Toys that can be thrown or tugged are good as long as you short periods.
are able to play with your dog; otherwise, choose a toy that ■ Keep a favorite toy hidden out
he can chew on. Some chewable toys have tasty flavors, and of your dog’s reach and use it
there are also food-dispensing toys that release treats when only as a prized reward during
training sessions.
played with. These can keep a dog entertained for a long

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