Using toys for exercise and physical activity in dogs
Do you want to keep your furry friend healthy and happy? Then, it’s time to dust off those neglected toys in the corner! Dogs have a natural instinct to move, explore, and play – And we’re here to show you how you can use their favorite toys as tools for exercising and staying active.
From frisbees to tug ropes, we’ll dive into different types of toys that promote agility, strength, and mental stimulation for your four-legged pal. Say goodbye to boredom and hello to a happier dog with these fantastic toy exercises!
What is the purpose of toys for dogs?
![black and white short coated dog on brown bear plush toy](https://doggearblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/od8uurkrh4c-1024x801.jpg)
Toys are a compositional part of any dog’s daily routine. Toys provide mental stimulation, physical exercise and social interaction for canines. There are many different types and shapes of toys that can be used to meet these needs. The type of toy you choose depends on the age, activity level and temperament of your pet. Here are some tips to help you choose the right toy for your dog:
Select the appropriate size and shape of toy. Dogs have different sizes, so it is important to select a toy that will fit their individual interests or chewing needs. Some toys may be too small for large dogs, while other toys may be too large for small dogs. Choose a toy that is durable enough to last through vigorous play but also plush enough that it doesn’t hurt your dog when they fall asleep with it in their mouth. A variety of textures can offer physical stimulation such as Squeaky dog toys, Chewable rubber Kongs and Hugs Pet Play Balls which offer tactile contact as well as auditory stimulation by making noise when chewed or bounced.(Please see link below for more information about sensory toys)
Provide mental stimulation by selecting a variety of puzzle games, tug-of-war toys and treat containers filled with edible treats such as Chicken Jerky Toy , Puppy Chow® Treat Dispensing Toy , Kong Classic Dog Toy (Chew resistant) or KONG Wobbler Dog Toy. Package-containing interactive games designed just for dogs include Small Animal Jamming Toy, Interactive Tug Toys and Hawk interactive ball.
Types of toys for dogs
![black and tan short coat medium sized dog lying on floor](https://doggearblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/znhea8mhoxw-1024x683.jpg)
There are many types of toys available for dogs, and each can be used for different purposes. Toys can be used to provide exercise and physical activity, to entertain a dog while he’s waiting for his owner to return, or to help him learn new tricks.
In general, toys that will provide physical activity should have several characteristics. They should be heavy enough so that the dog has to work to carry them around, and they should have textures (e.g., bumpy surfaces) and shapes (e.g., sticks) that attract the dog’s attention. Toys that will be used primarily for entertainment (such as Kongs or balls) should be small enough so that they don’t take up too much space, but large enough so that the dog can play with them for a long time without getting tired.
Some popular types of toy for dogs include:
- Puppy Playtime: A toy that is especially suited for puppies is a ball made from rubber or fabric stuffed with soft material (e.g., cotton). The puppy can play with the ball by rolling it around or trying to suck on it. When big enough, the pup can start playing with other nearby objects, such as bones or toys destined for destruction by little ones!
- Interactive Dog Toys: These toys are designed to engage your dog’s mental and physical abilities in unique ways. Some examples include puzzles (e.g., Tug-o-War ), tug-of-war poles, and feeding toys that dispense treats as your dog tries to get the food out.
- Squeak Toys: These types of toys have a variety of squeakers that help keep your dog entertained for hours on end. Some common types of squeaky toys include traditional plush toy mice, small rubber balls with long bristles, and some types of rawhide chews. Be sure to choose a toy that your dog will enjoy playing with and that won’t cause any damage to the furniture or walls.
How to choose the right toy for your dog
There are so many different types of toys on the market that it can be hard to know which one is right for your dog. Toys come in all shapes and sizes, so it can be hard to know what will interest them. Here are some tips on how to choose the right toy for your dog:
Select a toy that will engage your dog’s natural instincts. Some dogs get a lot of fun out of playing catch, whereas others may enjoy chasing toys around. figure out what your dog’s natural interests are and find toys that match those interests.
Select a toy that is appropriate for your dog’s age and size. Toys come in different sizes, so make sure to pick one that will fit into your dog’s mouth comfortably. small dogs should not be given large toys, and vice versa.
Select a toy that is durable enough for playtime but also easy to clean. If you have multiple dogs in the house, make sure each one has their own toy assortment so there is no fighting over who gets to play with the favorite toy first!
How to use toys for exercise and physical activity in dogs
One of the best ways to exercise your dog is by using toys. Toys can be used for a variety of purposes, including physical activity, training, and mental stimulation. Here are some tips on how to use toys for these purposes:
Physical activity:
To encourage physical activity, choose dog-safe toys that contain small enough balls or pieces that your dog can retrieve. Some great options include tennis balls, Kongs®, chew bones®, and Nylabones®. If your dog loves playing fetch, make sure to add a couple of sturdy tosses for extra fun and challenge.
Training:
Using toys as a training tool is a great way to teach obedience, reinforce good behaviors, and develop motor skills. To use this method, start by choosing a toy that your dog enjoys playing with on its own. When you want to start training with the toy, place it in an appropriate location such as near the doorbell or inside the house when you’re not home. Then cue your dog to “drop it” by giving verbal commands such as “here” or “stay.” After your dog drops the toy, give him or her praise and reward them with a treat accordingly. Repeat this process until your dog knows the command and WTFO (with a toy). You can also train dogs using specially designed play sessions such as “Puppy Playtime,” where you can expose them gradually to different situations and stimuli while they play together.
Guidelines for Safe Toy Play
Physical activity is one of the best things you can do for your dog. Physical activity helps keep them healthy, strong and energetic. Playing with toys can be a great way to get your dog exercise.
Here are some guidelines for safe toy play:
- NEVER give your dog a toy that is too heavy or small for them to lift or carry. Toys that are too large or too heavy can cause serious injury if they’re used as playthings.
- Make sure all toys are properly labeled for appropriate ages and sizes. Toys that are inappropriate for your pet’s age or size may result in injury.
- Only give your dog toys from a trusted source. Don’t let anyone give your pet toys they haven’t seen before – especially people who don’t have children of their own! Toys from unapproved sources may contain harmful materials, could be misshaped or could even contain pieces that can injure your dog.
Conclusion
Canine toys can provide a great way for your dog to exercise and get physical activity. Toys that are interactive, like those with bells and squeakers, require your dog to use her brain in order to figure out how to activate the toy. This type of exercise is beneficial as it helps keep your dog’s mind sharp and active. Other types of toys, like Kongs, offer a high degree of resistance so your dog has to work for her treats. By using different types of toys for different activities, you’re getting your pet the physical activity she needs without overpowering her with too much stimulation at once.