What dog doesn't like to play with a good toy? Dog toys are not only a great treat, but they can be a necessity as well. The right toys can help prevent some behavior problems and help to keep your dog from becoming bored. If your dog likes to find items like shoes or pillows when he's left alone and then chew them to shreds, a good toy can help to safeguard those items.

When you're selecting toys for your dog, it's important that you think of safety. Your dog's size, his activity level, and his preferences will help to determine the toys that are right and safe for him. Unsafe toys are those which can be ingested. These can include small toys for large dogs or toys which have small parts that your dog can remove. Toys that have pieces torn off or are starting to break apart should be thrown out. Likewise toys that are starting to leak their stuffing. Toys that are filled with things like polystyrene beads or nutshells should be avoided. Hard rubber toys are often the longest lasting and the safest. When it comes to chewies and rawhide toys, you should ask your veterinarian to suggest ones that are safe and you should always supervise your dog while he has one.

Toys can be used for a number of reasons and in a number of situations. If you're looking for toys to serve as a distraction, ‘busy-box' toys can be ideal. These are large rubber cubes with a place for hiding treats and they can occupy your dog for hours as he tries to get to the good stuff. Kong-type toys can also be used and you can fill them with broken-up treats. For active dogs who need active toys, very hard rubber toys, rope toys and tennis balls are often a great option. Toys that are meant to be comforting can be soft, stuffed toys or even an old article of clothing like a t-shirt or an old blanket that has your sent on it and your dog can carry around.

It's often best to get a variety of different toys for your dog that serve several purposes and then rotate them weekly to keep his interest level high. Remember, too, that your dog will need some time to play with you. Interactive play can be very important so pick up a Frisbee or a ball and be sure to spend some time playing with your pet.