FAQ: Toys for dogs

Some toys have a strong chemical smell or paint that rubs off easily. Choose toys whose materials are stated, avoid strong-smelling ones and throw away any toy whose paint is peeling.

It means the plastic was made without bisphenol A, which raises concerns about possible health effects. It is useful information but not the only safety criterion: the toy's size and durability matter too.

Silicone is soft, flexible and easy to wash, so it suits lick mats and gentle chewers. A strong chewer can quickly chew through silicone, so denser rubber suits it better.

Foam toys are light and float well, so they suit throwing and water games, but they are easy to chew apart. Use them for playing together and do not leave them for the dog to chew.

Natural materials such as cotton, felted wool or natural rubber can be pleasant and free of synthetic additives, but safety depends more on size, durability and whether the dog swallows pieces. Natural does not mean indestructible.

A new rubber toy may smell because of manufacturing residues. Wash and air it before giving it to the dog, and if the smell is very strong or unpleasant and does not fade, it is better not to use the toy.

Toys made of recycled plastic or fabric can be just as safe if they are made for dogs and suit the dog's size and chewing strength. Check them like any other toy and replace damaged ones.

Rubber and plastic toys are worth washing every week or two, and toys used with food after every use. Wash soft and rope toys when they get dirty or start to smell.

Many hard rubber and plastic toys can go on the top rack of the dishwasher without harsh detergents if the manufacturer allows it. Plush, rope and electronic toys must not go in the dishwasher.

Warm water and mild washing-up liquid are enough, followed by a good rinse. Harsh chemicals and bleach are best avoided or rinsed off very thoroughly so the dog does not lick up residues.

Some hard rubber toys survive brief boiling, but heat can warp or crack thermoplastic rubber and plastic. Check the manufacturer's instructions first.

Mould grows in toys where water or saliva gets inside and does not dry out, such as hollow or squeaky rubber toys. Dry such toys after washing, and throw them away if you can see mould inside.

After playing outside, wash dirt, sand and other dogs' saliva off the toys, especially if several dogs played. Dry wet toys before putting them back in the box.

Some infections, such as respiratory diseases, can spread through shared toys. In dog parks and daycares shared toys should be washed regularly, and a sick dog kept apart as the vet advises.

Toys are handy to keep in an open, easy-to-clean box or basket, with some put away so you can rotate them. Keep puzzles and toys the dog could destroy out of its reach.

Yes, when the dog has only a few toys each day and the rest are put away and brought out after a few days or a week, they seem new and interesting. This reduces boredom and keeps the home from overflowing with toys.

There is no set number, but it helps to have several types: for chewing, fetching, tugging and mental work. Variety and safety matter more than quantity.

It depends heavily on the material and how the dog chews: a plush toy may be torn in minutes, while a sturdy rubber chew lasts a long time. Replace a toy as soon as it starts to break down, not by the calendar.

A small seam in a plush toy can be sewn up if the toy is used for gentle play and the dog does not rip it. Rubber or plastic toys should not be glued, as glue and brittle edges can be dangerous for the dog.

Do not try to make the dog vomit unless a vet tells you to, and contact a veterinary clinic right away. Tell them the size and material of the piece and when it was swallowed.