What Are the Best Toys for a Puppy?

You've brought home your new puppy, and now it's time to find some toys to amuse her. Not all dog toys are the same, nor is every toy suitable. However, toys are necessary throughout your dog's life and have many uses, so it's important to learn which toys are preferable and why.

  1. Teething

    • Soft rubber toys are ideal for puppies that are teething. They are supple and provide the kind of chewing satisfaction for the animal. Chewing continues to be important as the puppy grows older, but it is advisable to switch to a firmer bone as he becomes more adept and jaw strength increases. Remember, if the rubber is too hard, teeth may be broken. Always supervise a puppy at play with a new toy.

    Safety

    • The best puppy toys are safe. One puppy may play with her toys roughly, while another may be very gentle. This makes it impossible to say that any toy is entirely safe. Try a variety of toys, removing any that appear to pose a risk. A toy that works today may be inappropriate tomorrow as your puppy grows, so reevaluate suitability and inspect the toys regularly.

    Fun

    • A puppy won't play with a toy that isn't fun. The best toys hold the animal's interest. However, what is exciting to one puppy may be boring to another, or even annoying. For example, some animals prefer playthings that squeak, while another dog may feel motivated to destroy a noise-making toy. Buy several very different toys and observe your puppy with each to find one or two he really enjoys.

    Interaction

    • A moving toy can be just the thing to engage the interest of an enthusiastic puppy. Teaching your puppy to retrieve a toy is a healthy and rewarding activity for both dog and owner. The game fosters bonding and provides the puppy with much needed exercise to dispel all that energy. A game of "fetch" is an excellent way to get to know your puppy better and to teach her new skills.

    Edible Toys

    • Some puppies just need more from their toys. Edible chews may be the answer for the pup that demands some payback for her efforts. A wide variety of chew bones are available and may be just the thing to satisfy the urge for more. Always supervise the puppy with an edible bone or toy because small pieces may be chewed away and can pose a choking hazard.