Emily Barkley | September 16, 2023

blog pet-friendly

The Ultimate Guide to Choosing the Best Pet Toys: What Every Pet Owner Needs To Know

Hello there, fur-parent! Or maybe you're a parent to a pet with feathers, scales, or shells? Whatever the case may be, we're glad you're here. This blog post is for you, the dedicated human who's looking to level up their pet's toy game. Because let's be honest, when it comes to pettoys, the struggle is real. How do you find the right toy for your pet?

The Price Is Right... Or Is It?

First things first. Let's chat about price. Some of you might think that the more exorbitant the price tag of a pet toy, the more fun your pet will have with it. Right? Wrong. In my experience, I’ve spent a small fortune on a fancy, high-tech dog toy that my pup sniffed once and then never looked at again. Meanwhile, his favorite toy? Yep, you guessed it. A scrunched-up ball of old newspaper. Classic. Remember, your pet doesn't care about how much you spent on a toy as long as it's fun to play with. So yes, price doesn't equal happiness (in the pet's world, at least).

The Durability Dilemma

Next, let's talk durability. You know that moment when you bring home a brand spanking new toy, and within minutes your beloved furball has turned it into confetti? Yeah. Been there. Done that. It's essential to think about your pet’s play style. If your dog enjoys a gentle game of fetch, a plush toy might last a decent while. But if your dog's idea of play is a full-on, WWE-style wrestling match, you're going to need something way sturdier. Like maybe a toy made of Kevlar. Or a pet rock.

Size and Safety

Now let's talk about size and safety. Because no one wants a visit to the vet that starts with "Well, he swallowed his new toy…" You wouldn’t give a marble to a toddler to play with, right? Same goes for your pets. If a toy can be swallowed or choked on, it’s an absolute no-no. Always ensure the toy is big enough to not be swallowed, but not too large that your pet can't comfortably play with it. And while we're on the subject of safety, watch out for those sneaky removable parts. They're real hazards.

Squeaky Clean

Ever picked up a pet toy and wondered if it's grown its own ecosystem? Yuck. To keep your pet healthy (and your home free of unknown lifeforms), opt for toys that are easy to clean. The simpler, the better. Honestly, if it can’t survive a trip through the dishwasher or a good scrub in the sink, it probably isn’t worth your time.

Fun Factor

Lastly, it's all about the fun factor. Try and match the toy to your pet’s personality and play style. Does your cat love to pounce? A toy mouse will have them entertained for hours. Got a dog who's a super sleuth? A puzzle toy will keep their brain buzzing. And remember, variety is the spice of life. Just like us, pets can get bored. So, try to keep a mix of toys on hand to keep things fresh and exciting. At the end of the day, choosing a toy for your pet is a bit of a gamble. You never really know what they’re going to love until you bring it home. The secret sauce? Patience, some trial and error, and a good sense of humor. Happy toy hunting, my fellow pet parents! May the odds be ever in your favor.

About the author

Emily Barkley is a pet enthusiast, seasoned writer, and the founder of a successful pet toy company. With a degree in Animal Behaviour and over 15 years of hands-on experience in the pet industry, Emily is passionate about improving the lives of pets through engaging and interactive toys. She believes that playtime is crucial for a pet's physical and mental wellbeing and loves to share her knowledge and insights in her blog posts. Emily lives in Oregon with her two golden retrievers and a house full of pet toys.

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