Hard plastic chew toys or those made of hard nylon are yet again a hazardous chew to bite on for your pet. Such hard toys can easily lead to gum injuries, tooth fractures, among other oral damages. Similar to other toys on the list, if your dog happens to be a good chewer and somehow manages to rip the toy apart, swallowing it can result in digestive obstruction, a choking hazard, among many other health issues. Though hard to tell how true, many claims also suggest that nylon chew toys such as Nylabones are subject to toxins and can result in severe health issues over time, including cancers and seizures.
How To Choose Safe Pet Products For Your Dog
The above are some of the most popular treats and chew toys and the many potential health hazards they may pose to your four-legged furry friend. However, with many new products entering the market every other day, telling if a particular item is safe for your dog or not becomes difficult.
Below are some ways to figure out if the item you picked is safe for your dog or not –
Hardness
If any toy is too hard to be pressed with your fingers, it is definitely too hard for your dog to chew upon. Such toys and treats include – cow hooves, hard cheese block or bones, bully sticks, elk or deer antlers, etc.
Too Soft
Just like hard toys, a toy that is too soft such that your dog could easily tear it apart and swallow the chunks makes for a bad toy for your pet. You must avoid poorly constructed toys or those with inedible stuffing. Such toys include – stuffed toys, tennis balls, etc.
Pretty Colored
Though a variety of colors adds to the appeal of a toy, it is best to avoid such toys for a pet. Dogs out of nature will chew on the toys, dyes, and artificial additives, which can seriously impact their health. Intake of toxic chemicals through toys or treats has also been reasoned as the prime cause of cancer in many pets, among other behavioral disorders, allergies, and intolerances.
Size And Shape
Any toy that is too small can be easily gulped down by your dog, resulting in blockages, choking, etc. Whereas any big toy could strain or injure their jaws as they try to hold and tear it apart. Always choose a toy as per the size of your dog, habits, and more.
Washability
It is needless to say that the toys that you bring home must be washable. One must toss toys into a dishwasher or a washing machine at regular intervals to rid them of any harmful bacterias, germs, etc.
Conclusion
While several safe pet products and alternatives are available in a pet store, one can always choose to take their vet’s advice to ensure the right choice. Since accompanying one’s pet at all times or keeping a tab on them as they play is not something everyone can manage, therefore, at the very least, take notice of your dog’s chewing habits. Doing so will inform you of the precaution you must take and help you make a better choice as per your dog’s interest.
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