Pet sitters and dog lovers have a common interest in one question: What makes for a GREAT dog toy? If you have found yourself browsing through aisles of chew toys, wondering which one will make your furry friend’s tail wag the most, so have we. An owner has lots of time to figure this out, but a pet sitter has a unique challenge: to form a fun and loving relationship with a strange dog in a flash. Having a fun toy in the sitter’s kit can make all the difference.
Why They Matter More Than You Think!
From squeaky plushies to tough rubber balls, the choices seem endless. Buy have you ever stopped to think about why the type of toy matters so much? In this article we take a deep dive into the world of pet toys, from polyfill fluffiness to homemade delights, and discover why they’re not just playthings but essential for your pup’s well-being.
Let’s address the big question: why should you care about the type of toy your pup sinks their teeth into? Think about it this way: would you give your human child a broken, unsafe toy? Of course not! Our furry companions deserve the same level of care and consideration. Quality toys aren’t just about keeping Fido entertained; they’re about keeping them safe and happy. Picture this: your pup, let’s call him Henry, gleefully sinking his teeth into a plush toy filled with polyfill. Not only is he enjoying himself, but he’s also stimulating his mind, exercising his jaws, and soothing his instincts. It’s like a mini mental gym session with a side of snuggles!
Why Polyfill?
So, what exactly is polyfill and why are toys made of it? You probably already recognize the name as that fluffy stuff that fills your dog’s favorite plush toy. Polyfill is a premium polyester fiberfill. Ever wondered why it’s used so often? Well, besides being as soft as a cloud and cozy as a blanket, polyfill serves a number of purposes: It’s safe, durable, hypoallergenic, washable, and cost-effective. But safety is merely only one reason to using polyfill. Unlike some of its other counterparts, polyfill is non-toxic, and mostly harmless. Although it’s less likely to cause harm if ingested, we must stress the importance of keeping a watchful eye out on dogs once the toy is shredded, as ingesting the toy parts or polyfill does pose concern for choking or internal issues with going potty.
Another perk of toys with polyfill is that they are usually long-lasting which makes it a cost-effective option for supplying hours of mental stimulation and fun for your pet. It’s also easy to clean. Throw stuffed toys in the washer with your favorite pet-friendly laundry detergent, and you have a dirt and bacteria clean toy for your pet. In other words, it’s the MVP (Most Valuable Polyfill) of dog toy stuffing materials!
The problem with polyfill? Picking it up from all over the floor when your dog has destroyed the seams of his or her beloved ducky or rabbit. No one likes picking up polyfill. It sticks around, too – it will wait patiently under your sofa or in your flowerbeds for you to come along and clean it up – it doesn’t biodegrade. So, as a permanent toy for a destructive dog, polyfill might not be the thing. For a pet sitter who is just using it temporarily at various home throughout the day – it still works.
What Are Some Good Alternatives with More Staying Power?
For some dogs, polyfill toys are just too much temptation and are destroyed in less time than it took you to pick it out at the store! Fear not, companies are catching on and there are many interactive alternatives in the market without stuffing to choose from! Whether it’s natural fibers like cotton or hemp, recycled materials like plastic bottles, or rubber and latex options, the world of dog toys is vast and varied.
Squeaker/Crinkle Toys:
Let’s start with a favorite of my pack: the joyous squeaker crinkle toy. It’s like music to my dogs’ ears (and yours, too?) squeaking and crunching over and over and over again). It mimics the sound of prey which really stimulates their senses and natural hunting instincts. Bonus, I never have to worry about cleaning up the massacred stuffing. It’s a win-win for both me, my pups, and the vacuum.
Rubber/Latex/Plastic Toys:
These toys are like the superheroes of the pet world, with durability that rivals even the mightiest of chewers. Plus, they’re as resilient as a rubber band in a game of tug-of-war, standing strong against the relentless tug of canine enthusiasm. And let’s not forget the squeaky delights that come with some rubber toys or the long-lasting dog chews that help strengthen and clean your pet’s teeth. Whether it’s a rubber ball for fetch, a nylon bone to help prevent destructive behavior, or a latex toy for a squeaky symphony, these toys are a trifecta, sure to keep your furry friend entertained for hours on end!
Interactive:
Imagine your dog’s eyes lighting up as they conquer a treat-dispensing puzzle or outsmart a squirrely hide-and-seek game. These toys aren’t just playthings; they’re like mental gym sessions for our canine companions, flexing their problem-solving muscles and keeping boredom at bay. With interactive toys, the fun never ends, and neither does the laughter. So, toss aside the boring toys and unleash the excitement with interactive ones – your dog will thank you with a wagging tail and a smile that lights up the room!
Natural Fillers:
Ah, natural filler dog toys, where simplicity meets satisfaction for our furry pals! Picture your pooch sinking their teeth into a toy filled with natural fibers like cotton or hemp, their tail wagging with contentment. These toys are like a breath of fresh air in a world of synthetic materials, offering a wholesome and eco-friendly option for our four-legged friends. Not only are they gentle on the environment, but they’re also gentle on sensitive pups, with hypoallergenic properties that cater to even the most delicate of doggy constitutions. Plus, there’s something innately charming about the rustic allure of natural fibers – it’s like bringing a slice of the great outdoors into your living room for your dog to enjoy. So, whether it’s a cotton-stuffed plushie or a hemp-filled chew toy, natural filler dog toys are sure to delight both your pet and your planet-conscious heart.
What Exactly Makes a Toy Interesting to a Dog?
As you are pondering your choices in the toy aisle, you are sure to wonder this: Is it the texture, the scent, the taste, or the sound? What makes toy “good”? Well, it’s a bit of everything, really! Dogs are individuals with unique preferences, so it’s essential to pay attention to what makes your dog’s tail wag the most. For a pet sitter, variety is the key as different dogs will have their own preferences. Whether it’s a plush toy for cuddling, a rubber ball for fetching, or a treat-dispensing puzzle for mental stimulation, the key is to keep things fresh, fun, and fur-tastic!
And hey, who says you have to break the bank to keep your pet entertained? With a little creativity and some household items, you can whip up homemade toys that’ll rival anything store-bought. From sock knot toys to tennis ball treat dispensers, the possibilities are endless. Not only will your dog appreciate the effort, but you’ll also score some major eco-friendly points along the way!
Reputable Brands
Now, let’s talk brands. Just like with any product, not all dog toys are created equal. Like a connoisseur selecting the finest wine, choosing the perfect toy brand is an art form in itself. From the timeless appeal of Kong to the avant-garde innovations of West Paw, each brand brings its own unique flair to the table. Does your pup possess the jaw strength of a Hercules? Fear not, for Kong’s durable rubber toys are up to the challenge, standing firm against even the mightiest of canine chompers. Do you have a runner on your hands? The Chuckit! is known for their durable and high-bouncing rubber balls, not to mention their launcher tools that propel the ball further and faster! They are great for an interactive game of fetch that will tire your pup out before bedtime. Or perhaps your furry friend fancies themselves a mastermind of puzzles and brain teasers? Look no further than West Paw, whose interactive toys are designed to engage and delight the most cunning of canine intellects. Whether your pup is a rambunctious rover or a cunning connoisseur of canine conundrums, rest assured that there’s a toy brand out there waiting to capture their heart (and their teeth) in a whirlwind of excitement and joy. Below are just a few top brands that we as dog-lovers and pet professionals stand by:
- Kong
- West Paw
- Zogoflex
- Chuckit!
- Tuffy’s
- Benebone
- Goughnuts
- Nylabone
- Planet Dog
- Orbed-Tuff
- Bionic Bone
- Jolly Ball
- Hide-a-Squirrel
- Mammoth
In conclusion, pet toys aren’t just frivolous accessories; it’s clear that they’re essential tools for keeping our furry friends happy, healthy, and entertained. An understanding of toys helps make a pet sitter or dog walker a big PLUS in an animal’s life. During the day while you are away at work, a dog might play with a toy by themselves, but more than likely, your pet is at home sitting on the couch or in a crate just waiting in anticipation until the moment you come home. Sitters and walkers play a crucial role in keeping our furry companions happy, healthy, and well-cared for when life gets busy. From giving your pup some much-needed exercise to providing companionship while you’re away, pet sitters and dog walkers offer a paw-some service that goes beyond just walking and sitting. They’re like your pet’s second-best friend, providing love, attention, and putting those new toys to good use!
Whether your pup is a tough chewer, a puzzle enthusiast, or simply enjoys a good old-fashioned game of fetch, there’s a toy and a pet-sitter out there waiting to capture their heart in a whirlwind of excitement and joy. And the next time you’re browsing the aisles of your local pet store, remember the importance of quality toys and choose wisely, then give Backyard Pet Services a call, because a tired dog is a happy dog!
