How to Buy a Toy for a Medium Dog

Choose a toy that matches your dog's interests: chewing, running, squeaking or pulling.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Canvas Dog Toys
• Dog Balls
• Dog Bones
• Dog Toys
• Dog Treats
• Fleece Dog Toys
• Holiday Dog Toys
• Rawhide Chews For Dogs
• Rope Dog Toys
• Vinyl Dog Toys
• Nylabones
• Flying Discs

1. Understand that a medium dog is considered to be a dog the size of a beagle or a sheltie. A medium dog is bigger than a shih tzu but smaller than a golden retriever.

2. Look for toys that are the right size for your dog. The toy must be large enough that the dog won't choke on it, yet small enough that he can get it in his mouth.

3. Consider what your dog likes to do. If he enjoys chewing, purchase rawhide or Nylabone toys.

4. Buy balls and dog flying discs if your dog enjoys chasing and retrieving toys. Avoid flying discs not made specifically for dogs. They can be too hard or too easily destroyed.

5. Purchase some vinyl squeak toys if your dog likes toys that make noise. Be aware that pieces can come off these toys when chewed; you'll need to remove the toy once it starts to come apart to prevent choking.

6. Know that many dogs enjoy fleece or canvas toys because they're softer and more pliant.

7. Think about buying some holiday toys for your dog. Santas, candy canes, reindeer and Christmas tree toys are available.

8. Get a rope toy. These toys are not only fun for the dog to chase and chew, but they also act as dental floss and help to clean teeth. Rope toys are excellent for dogs who like to play tug-of-war with people or with other dogs.

9. Purchase at least five toys for your dog and rotate them to prevent boredom.

10. Expect your dog's toys to last a short while unless they're truly indestructible. Buy enough toys so you can replace the ones that are thrown away.

11. Keep in mind that prices for toys for a medium dog start as low as $1 and can go up to $25.

12. Check with a salesperson to find out the durability of the toy you've selected.

Tips & Warnings

• Be sure to wash your dog's toys occasionally.
• Look for rawhide chews in a variety of shapes and designs.
• Find dog toys at pet stores, online stores, grocery stores and discount stores.
• Avoid giving your dog children's toys, even if they look like dog squeak toys. You don't want to confuse your dog into thinking he can chew on your children's toys.
• Don't give your dog cat toys. They're too small.
• Never leave children's toys on the floor or anywhere else your dog can reach them. They're a choking hazard.

on 3/6/2006 Another great toy that I have found that is good and reliable is called a Puppy Kong. It can be found at places like Petco and other pet supply places for around 5 or 10 dollars.

on 11/22/2005 If you have a ball-chasing, energetic dog who needs more exercise than you, look for "Chuck It." It's a 2-foot-long rod that grabs a tennis ball (so you don't have to bend or touch a slimy ball). You can chuck it farther than by throwing. It's about $15.

on 11/22/2005 A great toy for any sized dog is the Buster Cube or one of its derivatives. You put small kibbles in it, and as the dog rolls it, the treats fall out at random. It challenges them and prevents boredom.

on 11/22/2005 Save a fortune on stuffed animals by going to your local thrift store. Not only will you always have a variety of stuffed toys, but you will be recycling and contributing to a worthy cause.