Choosing the right toy can save you a world of problems.

Selecting the proper toy for your dog is more critical then you might think. Going to the pet store and saying ” oh, this is so cute, my puppy will love it” may not be the best way to go.

Choosing a stuffed toy may open the door to your dog chewing on pillows, clothes and other items made of fabric. They can also cause injury to the dog if he swallows the stuffing.

Don’t use old shoes as the dog will not know the difference between the old throw away shoe and your everyday shoes.

Tennis balls may be great, but should only be used in your presence. Many a Police K9 dog died after they ripped up their favorite tennis ball and choked on the pieces.

I encourage my clients to use products like the Gummabone or Nylabone. These products offer the right consistency in a chew toy. These toys provide hours of chewing pleasure and are safe for the dog. Have a teething puppy? Put the Gummabone in the freezer and then let the puppy gnaw on it. The cold will help soothe the pain. You can also soak them in a nice broth to further enhance the chewing session.

Some types of rawhide may be dangerous for the dog so I do not recommend them.

Dogs need to chew for a variety of reasons and if we don’t give them the right toy, they will wind up chewing our furniture.