Some enticing new playthings for your favorite canines.
It’s important for dogs to have access to a well-stocked toy box filled with interesting items that will keep them mentally and physically engaged.
Dog toys are typically divided into three main categories: action, distraction and comfort. Action toys keep dogs engaged in on-going play either with other dogs or with their favorite people. Distraction toys keep them busy when they are home alone and help to relieve anxiety. Comfort toys are most often plush toys that dogs like to shake around, honing their play and prey skills; they can also provide a sense of security when dogs curl up and sleep with them.
Here are seven of the latest toys (one for every day of the week) that I saw at SuperZoo 2016 in Las Vegas. You can buy some of the toys directly from the manufacturers or you can use their websites to find them at a store near you.
Petmate WWE Sports Superstars
Superstar wrestlers are brought to life with printed canvas and rubber chew toys that are tough and rugged, just like the WWE sports superstars they portray. Treat your dog to wrestling fun with The Rock, John Cena and Stone Cold Steve Austin. The collection also features WWE Championship belts, as well as a “Money in the Bank” rope tug for your canine champion. They are available in different sizes. petmate.com
Fuzzy Flyers
Fuzzy Flyers from Cycle Dog are durable plush toys designed for both indoor and outdoor play sessions. They have a soft plush outer covering that dogs love with a bonded inner laminate for durability. They are made from post-consumer recycled materials and are hand made in Portland, Oregon. cycledog.com
The American Classic Collection
The American Classic plush toy collection by P.L.A.Y. is for the canine junk foodie in your life. There are no calories involved so it’s easy to indulge him with a good ol’ juicy burger, a chicken drumstick or a hot dog with a side of fries. The collection also includes a strawberry milkshake. The toys are available individually or as a set. petplay.com
goDog™ Sonic Stick
The new goDog retrieval line from Worldwise Inc. is ideal for interactive play or for some fun alone time. The goDog™ Sonic Stick has lights and sound and is made from a soft and durable material that is safe for teeth and gums. The size is ideal of both large and small breeds. It’s bright yellow making it easy to see from afar. It’s also waterproof and floats. godogfun.com
Yard Games
Kurgo’s new outdoor toys are based on classic yard games. The Wapple Ball was inspired by the classic 1953 game of Whiffle Ball. Use a bat, tennis racquet or a lacrosse stick to get the game going. The Tossing Disc is the rough and tough version of the traditional Frisbee and glides through the air with ease. The Target Jack is designed to land with its point up no matter how hard or how far you throw it, making it easy for your dog to spot, even in the water. This versatile toy pairs well with the Tossing Ring. The Doggie Darts are durable, chew-safe, and non- toxic darts ideal for a game of fetch at the park. Huck-It Horseshoe is a dog-friendly version of the traditional game. Put a few stakes in the ground to get some accuracy practice while your dog gets his exercise. Lastly, the Backyard Birdie replicates the Badminton birdie. If you can’t remember how to play these games, the company has produced a booklet available in stores and also on line to remind you of the rules. kurgo.com
The Zinger
Petlogix a new dog toy brand from Hyper Pet. Unlike other dog toy launchers on the market, the Zinger offers a variety of interchangeable throw accessories making playtime more fun and exciting for dogs and their owners alike. There are two versions, one for medium and large dogs and the Zinger Junior for small dogs and puppies.
The Zingers throw up to 100ft, and the angle at the top can easily be adjusted to match the throwers style and alter each throw’s trajectory. Dog owners will enjoy both a comfort handle and hands free pick-up. pet-logix.com
The Buster ActivityMat
The Buster ActivityMat is a problem-solving interactive play center designed to mentally challenge dogs and get them to interact with their owners through play. The mat comes with three activities that snap on and can be moved around the mat to counteract predictability and boredom. The activities offer dogs varying levels of difficulty as they work to retrieve that snacks or toys that are hidden in the various pouches. Additional activities can also be bought separately. kruuse247.com
About the Author: Sandy Robins is the 2013 winner of the “Excellence in Journalism and Outstanding Contribution to the Pet Industry Award.” Her work appears on many of the country’s leading pet platforms, such as MSNBC.com, MSN.com and TODAYShow.com. She is a regular contributor and columnist in multiple national and international publications, including Catster, as well as the author of the award-winning books “Fabulous Felines: Health and Beauty Secrets for the Pampered Cat” and “For The Love of Cats.” Learn more about Sandy on her website or Facebook page. #welovecats
