What Kind of Toys Do Siberian Huskies Like?

Siberian huskies are strong, athletic animals, often used as sled dogs in colder climates. Some husky owners have complained that these dogs can be destructive around the house, often chewing on personal items when left unsupervised. Because they are typically working animals, Siberian huskies get bored easily and must be stimulated mentally to be happy. Chew toys that challenge your dog's problem-solving skills offer the best remedy for a bored dog in need of a distraction.

  1. Food Toys

    • The most popular dog toys are those that offer a reward for your dog's hard work. Kong toys and other rubber toys that provide an opening for a hidden treat offer your dog a fun, problem-solving activity that can occupy him for hours. Many of these rubber toys contain holes where you can stuff dog treats or kibble. Some products are sold with spray cheese and spray peanut butter to insert in the toy. Fill the toy with these products or dog-safe foods you find in your pantry. Peanut butter is a popular option. After the toy is filled, stick it in the freezer to prolong your dog's fun. These toys are especially helpful for dogs that are crated during your time away from home.

    Rope Toys

    • Rope toys are a favorite of many husky owners because they are strong and stimulate the dog's urge to destroy things. Recommended rope toys for huskies are large and firm, and do not tear apart easily. Read the label on the toy to find your dog's appropriately sized rope toy. Rope toys are popular with dog owners because the texture of the rope scrapes against the dog's teeth as he chews, cleaning the teeth in the process. Rope toys made with knots and balls tethered at the ends are recommended for interactive tug-of-war games with your husky.

    Prey Toys

    • Stuffed animals are popular dog toys but if you own a husky, it is important to find a stuffed toy that suits your dog. Find toys that are the size of your dog's natural prey. If you have a chihuahua, a mouse-sized toy is appropriate, but huskies require larger animals, the size of ducks and rabbits, since these are the prey they would pursue in the wild. Choose stuffed toys that are durable and be prepared to clean up the cotton stuffing inside once your dog accomplishes his goal of ripping the toy to shreds.

    Homemade Toys

    • Provide your dog with hours of fun without spending a dime by creating your own chew toys at home. An easy replacement for a store-bought rope toys is a homemade sock toy. Tie several old socks together with a knot in the middle or on the ends. Your dog will enjoy this toy because it smells like you. You may also wet the sock and freeze it to give your dog more of a challenge.

    Toys to Avoid

    • Toys built with a squeak function may be a choking hazard for large dogs like huskies because these toys aren't typically built with a durable rubber. Once your dog rips open the outer thin rubber shell, he may try to destroy the squeaking mechanism and choke on the plastic insert. Raw hides are not recommended since they also present a choking hazard and some dogs find them hard to digest. Animal lovers may also want to avoid raw hides since they are byproducts of the fur trade.