Any veterinarian would agree that an essential part of pet care is providing your dog with toys to aid their mental and emotional development. However, not everything that’s marketed as a chew toy or bone is actually safe to be used that way. To ensure your pet’s health, you’ll need to know more about what’s safe and what is not. Below, learn what toys pose a threat to your pup. 

What Toys Are Hazardous for Your Dog? 

Any chew toy made from nylon is unsuitable for a pet’s teeth, as it’s so tough and pliable that the teeth may break. If your pet manages to rip and swallow the nylon, it will likely cause blockage in their digestive tract. So can pig’s ears, though that’s due to their coating. 

You should also think about bones if you have a dog. Many are aware that small or cooked bones are bad for dogs because they splinter, which may cause punctures, broken teeth, or digestive issues. However, even large and uncooked bones are unsafe for a similar reason. The same can be said of wooden sticks, cow hooves, elk and deer antlers, and even hard cheese blocks. Since your dog likely gets all the calcium that they need from the food you give them, there’s no reason for them to chew on anything else for it.  

What Toys Are Acceptable? 

As a general rule, chew toys should be larger than your pet’s mouth so that they can’t accidentally swallow them. For the same reason, they should also be soft but not easily breakable. In other words, it should give a little when you push on it, but you shouldn’t be able to stretch or tear it. Avoid anything covered in a flavored coating, which is frequently toxic. Additionally, check that it’s machine washable so that you can regularly liberate it from harmful germs and bacteria. 

 
If your pet does become harmed by a toy or sustains another injury, take them to a veterinarian at High Point Veterinary Hospital in High Point, NC. Having operated as a quality animal hospital in the area for more than two decades, they can provide whatever care your pet needs to heal, from oral medication from their veterinary pharmacy to pet surgery. You can even bring your pet to be seen after regular business hours in an emergency. Schedule an appointment today by calling (336) 889-3832 or messaging them online.