Play is a real need for our dogs. This requires good methods but also finding the right toys depending on the desired learning, the desired mental stimulation, and even the resolution of a behavioral disorder. We will therefore help you find your way through the multitude of choices available: toys for puppies or destructive dogs, indoor, outdoor, or even aquatic accessories.

Why does your dog need to play?

Playing with your dog is the favorite activity of our companions. The game allows you to work on the “instincts” of hunting, “hierarchy”, combat and living in a group. You will thus stimulate your dog and perfect his education. The game therefore allows:

• First and foremost, strengthen the dog’s teeth
• Strengthen the dog handler complicity
• Respect your balance by spending both physically and mentally
• Teach your dog to channel himself
• Work on obedience

How to pay with your dog?

It is important to tailor the games to the individual and specific abilities and needs of your pet. Your dog needs to be stimulated both physically and intellectually. Depending on the desired goal, it is important to choose suitable accessories. When playing, good behaviors will be rewarded and encouraged, which will reinforce them. Bothersome behavior will be ignored or redirected. Respectful education also avoids the learning process of defeating the dog. This is why we will always end an exercise with a success and we will adapt its difficulty to the dog.

What are the different toys for dogs?

Since dogs use their teeth most of the time to play, it is important that the accessory has no toxic or harmful chemicals.

Intelligent games

Intellectual expenses are essential for the development of your canine and also prevent them from developing unwanted behaviors due to lack of stimulation. Interactive and educational dog games are ideally suited to mental spending.

Anti-boredom games

There are also occupancy toys for dogs, perfect when the owner is away. The animal particularly appreciates the chewing activities essential for its balance. Hence the importance of leaving him suitable chew accessories or kibble dispensing toys to fight boredom.

Outdoor toys to spend with your pet

Toys will be suitable for the outdoors, such as dog balls and frisbees, as well as water toys to be used as soon as the warm weather returns.

Balance and coordination games

Proprioception games allow the dog to work on coordination and balance while strengthening his musculature according to the exercises.

What toys to buy when the dog is destructive

For dogs with strong jaws or just destructive dogs with their toys, you can opt for natural rubber chew toys, which are widely used around the world and recognized and appreciated for their resistance. Natural rubber is a strong material, allowing optimal chewing in complete safety and which allows your pet to have fun thanks to the bouncing of the toys. In addition, some models can be filled with treats. 

Which toys to choose for a puppy

A puppy needs to play which is essential for its physical and mental balance. Puppy toys can initiate a lot of learning and should respect the principles of positive reinforcement. They are useful for working on self-checks.

Sound toys

Accessories that make noise have the advantage of stimulating puppies very effectively by reducing tension and having a calming effect. Indeed, the noises emanating from the toy with each pressure intrigue and motivate the puppy to continue playing and moreover, allow their chewing needs to be met.

Intellectual simulation games

Reflective toys, educational and interactive, allow the development and stimulation of your puppy’s intelligence while strengthening his concentration.

Toys that promote physical adventure

There are a large number of puppy balls or frisbees known for their strength and resistance. The “Kong Classic” remains essential to have from the youngest age of your puppy. It is important to choose your size according to your age but specially adapted to your dog’s jaw. This Kong allows you to slip treats inside. It is also very useful for working on positive habituation in times of loneliness. Also ideal for channeling the excess energy of our canines.

Even when the weather is bad and it is not pleasant to play with your dog outside, your companion still needs to be stimulated physically and intellectually. We are going to suggest some indoor activities to keep him entertained:

• Playing hide and seek allows your dog to use his hearing, flair, and sight to locate you.
• Create an obstacle course yourself.
• A treasure hunt using hidden treats.
• Discrimination games, interactive and educational: they consist in asking the dog to distinguish objects which allows him to occupy him in an intelligent way.
• Chew accessories are ideal thanks to their playfulness but also thanks to their chewing, which will have the beneficial effect of limiting the development of dental plaque, which is the source of tartar and gingivitis.

What outdoor games to play with your dog

When the weather permits, outdoor games are special moments for your dog as well as for you. While they do not require large means, the benefits are numerous:

• Playing hide and seek is a great way to develop your dog’s flair and analytical skills. It promotes the bond between the dog and his master while helping him to exercise. He will be rewarded with a small treat and hugs to encourage him.
• Finding a hidden object allows, in addition to the pleasure of playing, to review basic orders such as “sit” and “not move”.
• The balls and frisbees for dogs are generally very appreciated and ensure a good physical expenditure.
• An obstacle course with agility equipment adapted to the size and age of your dog (slalom, ramp, tunnel, gangway, etc.) is an excellent way to improve coordination.
• Most dogs love water, especially in the summer when the temperatures are high. Floating water accessories are perfectly suited, such as the Kong Aqua, which promotes physical exertion and fun in and out of the water.

Why choose toys that are good for the dog’s teeth?

As mentioned, dogs play with their teeth and jaws. Metals like steel, aluminum, stainless, and other extremely hard objects are not advisable. However, non-toxic rubbers and hard plastics are the way to go.