How to select safe dog toys

1Don't give your dog toys that are too small. Toys should be appropriate for your dog's size. Small dogs might require somewhat smaller toys than their larger counterparts. But toys should never be so small that they can easily be swallowed or become lodged in your dog's throat.

2Check the chemicals in plastic toys. Plastic toys can be safe. Some toys, however, include dangerous chemicals. Often labels will not include a comprehensive list of ingredients, but they will advertise if they are free of dangerous chemicals.Natural rubber dog toy maybe another wise choice.

3Watch your dog closely with squeak toys. Squeak toys are a favorite of dogs and are not necessarily dangerous. However, your dog may feel that he must find and destroy the source of the squeaking. In the process, he could ingest the toy or the squeaker.

4Stick to sturdy soft toys. Any soft toy can be torn up. However, you should try to purchase toys that are durable to prevent your dog from getting to the dangerous innards of the toy. Look for toys that are labeled as machine washable.

5Avoid rawhide. Rawhide might seem like the natural choice, but it is often treated with dangerous chemicals. When chewed up, it can also become small and easy to swallow. This poses a particularly significant risk to your dog.

6Avoid natural bones. Dogs can break their teeth on rib bones, cow hooves, and pig bones. Pig ears and bone marrow are less dangerous but can cause issues with digestion. Dental bones are a safer alternative.