With the widespread issue of salmonella in pig ear treats pet owners are seeking alternatives for their dogs. While there are other available dog toys and treats how safe are they? Among this nationwide outbreak are plastic toys a better alternative or are they harming your dog?
Over the past few years there have been studies of different chemicals that are used when making dog toys. This along with dyes and the possibility of your dog ingesting plastic is a concern. Since there aren’t as many regulations on dog toys in comparison to kids toys extra precautions are needed when buying plastic dog toys.
How To Choose The Right Dog Toy?
Since there isn’t much data on the long-term effects if plastic toys are harming your dog its better being safe than sorry.
[if !supportLists]· [endif]Avoiding BPA products which studies have possibly linked to fertility issues
[if !supportLists]· [endif]Replace aging plastic toys to reduce the risks of plastic being ingested
[if !supportLists]· [endif]Study your dogs chewing style
Avoiding BPA: While independent experts don’t necessarily agree on the matter it should be noted that the United States Government banned the use of BPA in baby bottles in 2012. If BPA isn’t something you want your children to drink out of why let your fur baby do the same.
Replacing Toys: While replacing your dog toys can be expensive reducing the risk, you’re your dog ingesting plastic shards is worth it. Veterinarian fees are considerably higher than purchasing a quality dog toy. Our article on 15 indestructible dog toys can help you replace your toys less often while avoiding toxic chemicals.
Chewing Style: If your dog is an aggressive chewer toys made of a hard plastic can damage their gums while softer toys carry the ingestion risk. Knowing how your dog chews on their toys will help you make an informed decision.
Alternatives To Plastic Toys
If your dog is known to be a tough chewer there are more durable options out there. These toys can be all natural, mesh based, and made with recyclable materials. Here are some of our favorite alternatives for plastic toys.
The Nylabone Strong Chew Stick is a combination of nylon and real wood. This helps to reduce the splintering effect of real wood. If your dog likes to chew on sticks this one is safer, and it has maple bacon flavor throughout.
The Pet Life Animal Dura Chew Dog Toy is a great mesh alternative to plastic since it doesn’t have small parts along with the durable stitching. It also offers water resistance so any dog slobber should roll right off.
While dog treats aren’t considered toys, they are edible, so you don’t have to worry about them ingesting it. Giving treats to your dogs are great but do so in moderation. Over 60% of dogs in the United States are currently overweight. So this shouldn’t be viewed as a toy.
