Looking for the best toys for puppies to keep them busy? As a puppy parent, you want to ensure your pup is engaged and stimulated.
The right toy not only keeps them entertained but also aids in their development. But how do you choose?
Selecting from an array of options might seem daunting, yet it's crucial for your pup's well-being and growth.
Your quest for the best toys for puppies to keep them busy, however, doesn't have to be stressful or confusing anymore!
Table of Contents:
- Benefits of Keeping Puppies Busy with Toys
- Choosing the Right Toys for Puppies
- Types of Toys to Keep Puppies Busy
- 5 Best Toys for Puppies to Keep Them Busy
- FAQ
- Ian's Wrap
Benefits of Keeping Puppies Busy with Toys
Puppy toys are more than just a source of entertainment. They play an essential role in your pup's overall health and development, offering both physical exercise and mental stimulation.
Dog owners know that the right interactive dog toys can capture their pup's interest for hours on end while also providing multiple benefits:
Mental Stimulation & Skill Development
The curious nature of puppies makes them thrive on mental challenges. Puzzle toys or snuffle mats engage pups intellectually, improving cognitive functions and problem-solving skills.
Promoting Dental Health
Puppy chew toys not only entertain but also aid oral hygiene. Rubber and rope toys remove plaque and tartar build-up when chewed upon, preventing potential dental diseases and improving bad breath.
These handy aids also offer relief to teething puppies by soothing teething pain.
Anxiety Reduction
When pet parents need to leave home due to work or other commitments, a plush toy or slow feeding mat can help your furry friends with separation anxiety. A comforting plush toy makes a great companion for lonely puppies!
Our Cavoodle puppies playing with a puzzle toy
Keep your puppy's tail wagging with top-notch toys from Zach's Pet Shop. They're not just fun, they also promote skill development, dental health and reduce anxiety.
Choosing the Right Toys for Puppies
Puppy toys come in a wide range of shapes, sizes, and textures. However, not all toys are created equal when it comes to keeping your pup entertained.
Finding the perfect balance between fun and development-supporting toys is crucial. Let's explore some factors to consider when choosing toys for your furry friend.
Size
Your puppy's size greatly influences the type of toy they need. Smaller dogs will need small, plush toys that can fit into their mouths and won't be too heavy for them to carry.
Large dogs and working breeds (such as border collies) require bigger, sturdier toys that can withstand heavy chewing. Do not give large dogs small toys as it can pose a choking hazard.
Durability
Teething puppies can destroy anything within their reach. Therefore, opting for durable rubber-based toys is essential during this phase.
These materials can soothe your dog's teeth pain while also providing mental stimulation.
Even with durable toys, pet parents need to supervise their puppies to ensure safe usage.
Mental Stimulation
Interactive toys and puzzle games challenge your puppy to find small treats hidden inside, stimulating your puppy's brainpower and challenging them mentally.
By honing problem-solving skills early, puppies can gain an advantage later in life.
Types of Toys to Keep Puppies Busy
Puppies, with their boundless energy and curiosity, require an array of toys for entertainment and mental stimulation.
The right toy can keep your pup busy while also aiding in its development.
Anxiety Toys
Anxiety toys are designed specifically to soothe pups experiencing separation anxiety or stress when left alone.
They are usually soft toys that contain a heartbeat simulator or heat pack, helping your pup feel like their mother is nearby.
Durable Toys
Chew toys are perfectly suited for dogs who love gnawing on things out of boredom. They are also great to soothe the pain of teething puppies.
Enrichment Toys
Puppy interactive toys provide mental stimulation. They are usually treat dispensing and include snuffle mats, slow feeding mats and puzzle toys.
Soft Toys
Dogs love plush toys! They are soft enough to cuddle and light enough to carry around in their little mouths.
Our Cavoodle puppy playing with a rope toy
5 Best Toys for Puppies to Keep Them Busy
Navigating the vast world of puppy toys can be a bit overwhelming for dog owners, but don't worry.
We've curated a list of top-notch options from Zach's Pet Shop that will keep your pup entertained and promote their overall well-being.
1. Little Buddy Heart Beat Warm Unicorn
A standout example from our range includes the Heart Beat Warm Unicorn which mimics the warmth and heartbeat of a mother dog, offering comfort when pet parents aren't around.
It is perfect for helping puppies adjust to their new home!
2. KONG Puppy
Stuff your KONG Puppy with small treats and watch your puppy spend hours chewing and trying to get them out!
It is a little version of the KONG Classic for small dogs. It is made from a gentle yet durable rubber that is customised for puppy teeth and gums.
KONG Puppy not only offers entertainment but also teaches appropriate chewing behaviour and distracts your puppy from causing any trouble.
3. Pups Latex Love Bone
The Latex Love Bone is the perfect companion for playful puppies. It is strong enough to be long lasting but soft enough to not damage your puppy's teeth.
This affordable toy encourages healthy chewing habits.
4. Little Buddy Comforting Gator
We had this Comforting Gator toy for our two Cavoodle puppies when they were little. It was their favourite!
Its limp shape made it easy for their little mouths to pick up and they loved to chew on the teething ring.
5. Calming Pals Lavender Scented Sheep
The Lavender Scented Sheep is the perfect puppy toy. Not only is it a fun plush toy to play with, but it has a calming lavender scent that makes it perfect for cuddles at bedtime too.
FAQ
What toys keep puppies busy?
Puzzle toys, squeaky toys, rope toys and lick mats can hold your pup's interest. These not only entertain but also stimulate their brains and minimise bad behaviour.
How do you keep a puppy busy for hours?
Puppies stay engaged for longer periods with puzzle or treat-dispensing toys. Regularly rotating the toy selection also keeps things fresh and exciting.
How do I keep my puppy entertained while away?
Safe, durable rubber toys or interactive feeders are great options to occupy your pup when you're out. Just ensure toys are suitable for smaller dogs and soft on your dog's teeth.
What toys are good for 10-week-old puppies?
Gentle soft plushies, warm heartbeat companions, and appropriately sized squeaky toys work well for 10-week-old pups as they comfort them and aid in their development.
Ian's Wrap
Keeping puppies busy with toys benefits their happiness, health and development.
The right toy selection can make all the difference in your pup's engagement and stimulation levels.
Your search for the best toys for puppies to keep them busy doesn't have to be overwhelming anymore!
Zach's Pet Shop provides top-quality pet supplies that cater not just to entertainment but also to enriching your furry mate's life. Click here to explore our collection and give your puppy the playtime they deserve!
About Ian
With an impressive track record of nearly 15 years, Ian has been supplying high-quality pet products to Australians, earning their trust and loyalty.