Why We Dogs Love Toys

This isn't actually mine and oops, I think I broke it!

Today I thought I'd talk a little bit about why we dogs love toys. I got lots of toys for Christmas (lucky me) and I think humans should know just why we like lots of different toys. I mean, humans have lots of different things too, like toys, and shoes, and clothes and stuff. Dogs are the same. We also like variety.

 Playing is an important part of a dog’s life. It keeps them mentally active and alert. Chewing is part of their entertainment.  A dog toy is a toy that is specifically for dogs to play with. Dog toys come in many varieties, including dog bones, puppy toys, balls, tug toys, training aids, squeaky toys, discs and Frisbees, plush toys, and sticks. Here's a picture of me having fun.

Dog toys serve different purposes. Puppies, for instance, need toys they can chew on when they are teething because their gums and jaws become very sore and chewing on things provides them relief. Also, playing with different toys encourages exercise, which benefits the pet's overall health. Toys also stimulate dogs' minds, discourage problem behavior resulting from boredom and excess energy, and promote dental health.

There are a wide variety of dog toys on the market that are designed for different purposes and depending on the dog's characteristics such as size, activity level, chewing habits, and play style.

Distraction toys keep dogs busy. They are useful when people cannot play with their dogs. Some examples are food delivery toys, dental chew toys, Kongs stuffed with treats, Nylabones, chew challenge toys, and puzzle toys.

A dog bone is either a real or toy bone that makes a good dog toy. Some dogs like to bury bones in the yard, so they can dig them up and chew on them later. Other dogs like to carry bones around with them. Dog bones also help getting plaque off of the dog's teeth.

Latex and rubber dog toys are great for dog entertainment. With these toys, dogs that are aggressive chewers have a safe way to satisfy their biting instincts. These toys also help keep dogs' gums and teeth clean and healthy. In general, hard rubber bones and other latex dog toys help improve dogs' overall oral hygiene.

Even though your dog has plenty of toys, don’t forget he needs you to play with him too. It’s great exercise and fun for the both of you. Frisbees, balls, tug toys are all great “my human can play too” toys.

Yes. Dogs really do need toys. Toys keep them happy, occupied and out of trouble.