Best Toys for Small Dogs
Dog toys are one of the best ways to reward a pet and let them know they are loved and cared. Not only are toys enjoyable but, they are also useful for encouraging exercise and can also help to control behavioral issues. No dog is too old to play with their toy.
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Top 5 Best Rated Toys for Small Dogs Reviewed
There are so many toys to choose from to keep your dog occupied. Whether it’s a mentally stimulating puzzle or a simple throw-and-fetch dog ball that helps to maintain your pup’s physical well-being, finding the right toy is no easy task. Much like food or any other dog accessory, toys require some attention.
We understand there are too many items out there, so for this reason, we have compiled a list of suggestions for the best toys for small dogs.
KONG Wild Knots Bears Durable Dog Toys
This toy which comes in the shape of a bear. It is perfect as a punching bag and a companion for your lonely pet. The internal knotted ropes help to satisfy your dog’s natural instinct and contain minimum stuffing. The bear also tends to squeak, giving it a sense of authenticity to your pet.
Pros:
- Provides extra durability
- Minimal stuffing
Cons:
- Not suitable for heavy chewers
Mammoth Floss Chews Cottonblend Color 3-Knot Rope Tug
This toy can serve as a nice alternative to those boring balls that your pet is already sick of. Not only does it challenge their physical strength through the act of pulling, this toy is also made up of fibers that it helps to floss the dog’s teeth. This item is inexpensive and comes in various sizes. Overall, this toy is a perfect choice for small dogs especially for ones that love to mess with the ropes.
Pros:
- Comes in wide range of sizes
- Keep your dog’s mouth clean
- Cheap
Cons:
- Not suitable for long-term use
- Not for heavy chewers
ZippyPaws Skinny Peltz No Stuffing Squeaky Plush Dog Toy
This toy includes three skinny plushies, a raccoon, fox, and squirrel. The special feature of this toy is that they squeak, giving it more ‘life’ in the eyes of your dog. This toy can be used to play fetch and is ideal for small dogs to keep them busy.
Pros:
- No stuffing
- Suitable for medium-sized dog breeds
Cons:
- Chances for squeaks to be spoiled
Dog Frisbee Toy
This toy is perfectly safe for a small dog as it is made from 100% natural rubber and the company guarantees a refund if there are any issues. The toy comes in an aerodynamic design which means the owners doesn’t need to wear themselves out by trying to constantly throw the Frisbee. Coming in various colors and sizes, it is a great toy for your pet.
Pros:
- Aerodynamic
- High visibility
- Made 100% from rubber
Cons:
- Not durable
- Poor design
Katie's Bumpers Sqwuggie Firehouse Dog Treats Toy
This toy is made from fire-grade hose materials and can float, squeak and withstand strong tugs. It comes in various color choices and is suitable for all dogs. The toy also can be used in all weather conditions as it is very strongly sewn.
Pros:
- Various color choices
- Inexpensive
- Suitable for dog training
Cons:
- Not suitable for large breed of dogs
- Not durable
Why Your Dog Needs Toys?
There are plenty of reasons why toys need to be implemented in a dog’s daily life.
- They provide much-needed exercise
Depending on a dog’s age, size and health, they should get anywhere from 30 minutes to 2 hours of exercise each day. This can be difficult to provide when you are busy with life. With an interactive toy, keeping them occupied and eventually keeping them healthy and active.
- They alleviate boredom
When you have to leave your house for a long period of time, an interactive toy keep a dog motivated on solving the puzzle for the hope of getting a delicious treat. Thus, these toys will help your dog will play for hours without getting bored.
- They help prevent anxiety
Interactive toys come as the perfect solution for helping separation anxiety. These puzzle toys help to keep your dog occupied, making it less focused on its loneliness and the lack of company.
How To Choose the Right Toy
Even though a toy is important to have, for smaller dogs, sometimes not any toy works. You need to find a toy that is just right for its size and strength. It is best to consider some of the factors to make sure that you get the right toy for your small dog.
- Durable
It is a sad fact that many dogs and puppies die every year from choking on. A suitable toy must be shatterproof and made from a material that your puppy is unable to tear small pieces away from.
- Softness
While a durable toy is important, it shouldn’t rock hard. A toy needs to have a level of softness to it so that is it fun to chew on. It must not be too hard so that it hurts your puppy’s sensitive gums.
- Variety
Different dogs have different likes and dislike. It’s also good to provide variety and change because if stuck with the same toys, there are high chances for your dog to get bored quick. Do not stick to just one size, one colored toy.
- Appropriate Size
Make sure that the size of the toy is appropriate to the size of your pet, even if it is a puppy. Anything that is tiny enough to be consumed can be a choking hazard. However, in the same way, it is important to note that the toy isn’t too big either, since they may not get the right satisfaction.
- Tastes Good
Chewing on something that tastes great or is edible can be infinitely more exciting than a tasteless toy. Not only does it provide a sense of relief, but satisfies the craving of wanting to eat as well, without the added calories.
Toys to Avoid
There are plenty of things to consider when looking to see what to avoid when buying a toy. The following are just a few:
- Cheap Squeaky Toys
A toy that squeaks is no problem at all, but a cheap one is highly dangerous. The reason for this is, if they are manufactured with a material that can break or tear apart, the squeaker inside may fall out and be potentially ingested by your pet.
- Containing BPA
BPA is a harmful chemical found in some cheaper toys, and studies have shown it to be toxic in even small quantities.
- Anything that can be torn
It is important to remember not to buy any toy that can be torn or ripped apart. Even if it seems adorable to watch your pet bite at a cute plush, if it has the chance to be ripped, that means there is a chance for your pet to consume the material inside.
Final Thoughts
Over the years, toys have developed greatly. There are so many different types of toys for various kinds of dogs. When it comes to small dogs, the market is full of amazing toys that can keep them occupied for hours on end. As a wise owner, you should able to choose the best in terms of the quality and special features. With that in mind, the list we mentioned above are some suggestions for small dog owners.
