Puppy Teething Toys
Teething is a challenging phase for puppies, filled with discomfort and curiosity. With those new teeth breaking through, your furry friend will seek relief through chewing. If the right outlets aren’t provided, you might find your precious shoes or furniture bearing the brunt of this exploration. Jme Thomas, the director of Motley Zoo Animal Rescue, likens this behavior to how babies explore the world, putting things in their mouths to investigate.
Freezable Chew Toys
For teething puppies, frozen chew toys can be a lifesaver. Not only do they offer relief from sore gums, but some pups simply enjoy the sensation of a cold toy. While there are specialized freezer toys available, you can easily convert any regular chew toy into a frozen treat, as suggested by Thomas. A creative alternative involves crafting doggie ‘popsicles’ by freezing toys or treats in water, creating a refreshing and entertaining way for your pup to cool down.
Treat Balls and Toys
A bored puppy is often a mischievous one, prone to chewing and challenging to train. Engaging your dog’s mind during meal times can work wonders in preventing destructive behaviors. Steffi Trott, a seasoned dog trainer, recommends using treat-dispensing balls to make your furry companion work for their food. This not only adds mental stimulation but also turns mealtime into a rewarding and engaging activity where all the senses come into play.
Interactive Puzzle Toys
Puzzle toys are a fantastic way to interact with your dog and strengthen your bond. They serve as valuable tools for enhancing your pup’s problem-solving skills and patience. Trott highlights the importance of teaching puppies the virtue of patience and critical thinking through puzzle toys, which can have lasting benefits on their behavior as they grow into adults.
Feeding Mats
Feeding mats have gained popularity recently for their mental stimulation benefits. However, it’s crucial to supervise your puppy while they engage with these mats to prevent any potential hazards. Thomas warns about the construction of these mats, which, if destroyed, could pose a danger if ingested. These mats transform mealtime into a stimulating challenge, providing a mental workout that can be even more tiring than physical exercise.
Hard Rubber Toys
Hard rubber toys, especially those that can be filled with treats like peanut butter, are a hit with playful and chew-loving puppies. Keeping your dog engaged with a variety of treats in these toys can be incredibly calming and soothing for them. Trott emphasizes the calming effects of licking and chewing, suggesting that these activities can help relax anxious dogs and provide a sense of comfort.