Plush Dog Toys
Perhaps one of the best dog toy variations around is the plush dog toy that often mimics the look of a child’s stuffed animal. Dogs generally are thrilled to play with these soft, squishable, squeaky toys.
Plush dog toys work and are so popular with dogs because they encourage the prey drive in your dog. The reason dogs become so excited is that the squeak is meant to sound like an injured or dying prey animal, like a mouse, rabbit, etc. Additionally, the texture and feel of the fake fur along with the ability to bite and squeeze furthers this dying animal feeling.
Many dogs that first appear disinterested in toys can be encouraged to play with these plush dog toys. A dog that isn’t routinely played with as a puppy may lose his interest or never develop his interest in toys. These dogs often won’t play with balls or fetch items, but can be taught how fun toys are by using fuzzy squeaky toys. These toys can be an excellent introduction into the world of toys for these dogs.
There are special considerations with plush dog toys:
- They are not for aggressive chewers. Since they are sewn together, these seams can be easily ripped apart.
- These toys are best for supervised play only. Don’t leave them in a dog’s crate or for when you’re not home.
- Most are stuffed with polyester stuffing that dogs will readily consume. This can create a blockage in a dog’s stomach and
- intestines requiring emergency surgery.
- Squeakers break over time. Some toys offer replaceable squeakers.
- For dogs that love the sound of crinkling, there are toys that use plastic bottles inside of them.
- These too can be destroyed so make sure to carefully monitor and replace the bottle when necessary.
A few of the best plush toy options:
- Kyjen Squeaker Mat toys: Offers about 16 squeakers in one toy!
- Look Who’s Talking dog toy: Realistic animal sounds instead of the squeak
- Skinneeez toys: Stuffingless toys
- Ty Bow Wow Beanies: Ty makes beanie baby-like dog toys which contain both a squeaker and crinkle sounds.
- Loofa Dog: Great plush toy with a stick like shape for easy carrying.
- Water Bottle Buddies: Stuffed animal that holds an empty water bottle.
