How to Get Your Dog Interested in Toys

Dogs and toys seem like a natural playtime combination, but not all canines are interested in tennis balls, Frisbees and squeaky bones. Whether it is because of an abusive past or timid nature, some dogs must be taught to play with these items. Teaching a dog to play with toys is important because it provides healthy exercise and helps your dog bond with his human "pack."

Things You'll Need

  • Dog treats
  • Plush dog toys
  • Chew toys (rawhide or nylon)
  • Activity toys (tennis balls, ropes, items with squeakers)
  • Reward toys (Kong or similar toy to hide treats in)
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Instructions

    • 1

      Discover why your dog is not interested in toys. Some breeds of dogs have a stronger prey instinct to chase and grab things in their jaws. For example, Chihuahuas often do not have a strong instinct drive to chase and retrieve toys. Labrador retrievers are more likely to chase a tennis ball and return it to their owner because the breed's ancestors were bred to promote this instinct. Some dogs simply do not know how to play, especially if they have had neglectful or abusive owners who did not give them toys. Other dogs may be fearful because they naturally have a timid nature and do not like change or new items in their environment. If you are unable to discern a cause, consult a pet trainer who can analyze your dog's behavior and find a solution.

    • 2
      Make sure a toy is not big enough to intimidate a small dog.

      Introduce your dog to different types of toys. Dog toys generally fall into four types: chewing, reward, soothing and activity. Try all kinds of toys to see what your dog prefers. A chew toy would be a rawhide or nylon bone. Plush toys with a squeaker inside can be soothing to a dog, and balls that you can hide treats in reward a dog for playing. Activity toys are things like Frisbees or tug-of-war ropes. Be sure the toys you use are not oversized because this may intimidate or frighten a dog who is smaller than the toy. Do not purchase small toys for a large dog since they can cause choking if the animal tries to swallow the item.

    • 3

      Show interest in the dog toy. When you introduce a new toy to a dog, handle it often and act excited. Talk in a goofy, cheerful voice and say things like "Do you want your toy? What is this toy? Come get it!" Keeping showing the toy to your dog, tossing in the air and being dramatic. Throw it near your dog but not at it, especially if it is a timid animal. If the dog shows interest and chases the toy, continue playing like this for about three minutes, then put the toy away. Repeat this a few times a day until the dog is comfortable with the toy. If the dog continues to show no interest in the toy after a week of these sessions, try another type of toy.

    • 4
      Playing with your dog can be a bonding experience.

      Provide incentive for your dog to play. A dog can have a big stack of toys but still act uninterested in playing. Give your dog a treat after it fetches a ball. A toy that drops food tidbits as it rolls across the ground as the dog plays is another way to reward the dog for active behavior. Praise your dog effusively when he shows interest in his toy, even if it's just to sniff it.