Choose Toys For Your Dog
with
Nicole Chmura
Dog toys don't just provide entertainment for our furry friends. See how dog toys can help pets stay fit, healthy, and clean.
Transcript: Choose Toys For Your Dog
Hi, I'm Nicole Chmura for About.com. This is Lady. She's energetic and loves to play, and we encourage her by choosing the right toys.Dog Toy Benefits
The American Veterinary Medical Association considers mental stimulation a big part of keeping a puppy healthy. Toys are great for exercising both the brain and all four legs. It's as easy as throwing a ball.Using Toys to Train Dogs
Sometimes toys can be used a training tools - at the park, or teaching them how to use a doggie door.Dog Toys for Exercise
Fetching a Frisbee is always fun. Lady is crazy about this soft one - perfect for the pool. She wears herself out jumping in and out to catch it – a real workout in the water.Chew Toy Varieties
When she's a little calmer, you're sure to find a chew toy in her mouth. Some are silly and squeaky. Others are simple and cheap-- like this plastic water bottle. It gets her undivided attention, no matter what's going on. We just have to be sure she doesn't eat the plastic.Toys for Clean Teeth
Tug of war is another of Lady's favorite games. Besides exercise, this rope also helps keep her teeth clean.Edible Bubbles for Dogs
Here's a unique interactive toy-- she's chasing edible bubbles flavored just for furry ones - BBQ chicken or bacon.Toys to Pass the Time
When a dog has time alone, rawhide and other chew toys help them pass the time. A Kong is another great way to prevent boredom. Putting a treat or a little peanut butter inside keeps them occupied for hours.Stuffed Animals as Dog Toys
Lady loves stuffed animals, too. But before she gets them, we make sure to remove plastic eyes and noses that could pose a choking hazard. Really, that's good advice for anything small.Cleaning Dog Toys
Toys will probably dirty during playtime, so be sure they get at least a rinse when you're done.Rotating Dog Toys
Here's a great tip from the American Kennel Club: rotate toys. Put some away for a few weeks. Then, when you bring them out again, she'll love them like they're new.Dog Walking as Play
This may be the best toy of all-- a leash. Endless sights and smells on regular walks are all but guaranteed to keep your four legged friend active and happy.Thanks for watching. To learn more, visit us here on the Web at dogs.about.com.