If you do have a new puppy just observe how they play at first. If they tend to destroy their toys then you may want to stick with more durable chew toys, such as a Kong toy. If they are careful with their toys than a soft stuffed chicken with a squeaker should be fine. What you need to worry about is your doggy potentially ingesting a squeaker and/or stuffing. Go with your gut and always observe how Fido plays before you leave him alone with his toys.

Toys help fight boredom in a dog you've left alone. They can also provide comfort. And toys can even help prevent your dog from developing certain problem behaviors.

How to make sure your dog's toys are safe

Toys should be appropriate for your dog's size. Balls and other toys that are too small can easily be swallowed or become lodged in your dog's throat.

A note about rawhide

If you're thinking about giving your dog rawhide chew toys, be sure to check with your veterinarian about which ones are safe and appropriate for your dog. Because these toys may pose choking hazards, only give them to your dog when you’re there to supervise.

Dog toys we recommend

Active toys
• Very hard rubber toys, such as Nylabone®-type products and Kong®-type products, are fun for chewing and for carrying around, and they are available in a variety of shapes and sizes.
• “Rope” toys are usually available in a “bone” shape with knotted ends.

Distraction toys
• Kong®-type toys, especially when filled with broken-up treats—or, even better, a mixture of broken-up treats and peanut butter—can keep a puppy or dog busy for hours.
• “Busy-box” toys are large rubber cubes with hiding places for treats.
• Soft stuffed toys are good for several purposes, but they aren't appropriate for all dogs.
• Dirty laundry, such as an old T-shirt, pillowcase, towel or blanket, can be very comforting to a dog, especially if the item smells like you!

How to get the most out of your dog's toys

Rotate your dog's toys weekly by making only a few toys available at a time. Keep a variety of types easily accessible. If your dog has a favorite, like a soft “baby,” you may want to leave it out all the time.

By focusing on a specific task—such as repeatedly returning a ball, Kong, or Frisbee® or playing “hide-and-seek” with treats or toys—your dog can expel pent-up mental and physical energy in a limited amount of time and space.

If you haven't dog proofed your home (especially if you have kids) we recommend you do so right away. Leaving strings, rubber bands, and other small and foreign objects can not only get stuck in your pup's throat but can also affect the digestive system. Treat your doggy just like you would a baby and toddler. Most dogs will try to pick up anything off the floor so you need to be one step ahead of them.

Soon enough you'll discover which toys are best for him and which ones are also his favorite. Allow him to have fun but keep him safe too! For more great tips on what toys to select visit The Humane Society.