So you, like most new puppy owners, want to make sure your new friend has everything she needs for the best start in life.
Sometimes it’s hard to know where to start with the overwhelming variety of products available for dogs these days.
There are really three main categories of puppy toys; below, we’ll outline these categories and some tips how you can use them for your puppy.
Human Interactive toys, chew toys, and brain toys can all play vital roles in your puppy’s physical and intellectual development. Read more puppy stories here.
The most important and obvious factor to consider when buying a chew toy for your new puppy is her jaw size. Your puppy won’t find it any fun if she can’t get her mouth around it! On the flip side, a too-small chew toy is a choking hazard. Soak the chew toys in some water first to soften them up and encourage your puppy to chew. Many chew toys will have information on the packaging about breed sizes and whether or not it’s suitable for puppies. Find the best dog breeds by clicking here.
Interacting with your puppy using balls, ropes, and Frisbees is a great way to socialize them. You need to teach your puppy the rules for play. Just remember, any pulling, thrashing, or tugging should come from your puppy–not you. Take care that you’re being gentle with your puppy and not hurting her fragile neck when you play tug of war. It’s important to teach your puppy how they should interact with humans early on to avoid unwanted behavior as they become adults.
Brain toys are specifically designed to enhance puppies’ development through problem-solving and challenge. There are a variety of products like games, puzzles, an treat-dispensing toys designed to enhance your puppy’s cognitive development. Again, make sure you are choosing a level of difficulty appropriate for the age of your puppy. Puppies need to learn how to solve problems and deal with frustration effectively, which is what brain toys aim to teach. A lot of behavioral problems common in adult dogs can be avoided if puppies learn how to deal with frustration and solve their own problems early on. Frustration and boredom can lead to aggression; keeping your puppy engaged is as important to her as her food.
The internet is a great place to start; browse through some product reviews. See if there are any recommendations from purebred breeders.
No need to let the pet shop overwhelm you. You can even bring your new puppy with you to some national chains to see what strikes her fancy. Knowing what your puppy needs will give you the confidence to make the right choices. You and your puppy are sure to love the hours of fun you’ll have together!
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