Vet Tom Mason says some common toys can be dangerous for your pets
Dog toys are meant to keep pets entertained, mentally stimulated and out of trouble, but not every product on the market is as safe as it seems, according to a vet. From brittle plastic to fraying ropes, some toys can pose serious risks if they are poor quality, used incorrectly or simply not suited to a dog’s breed, size or chewing style.
Tom Mason, in-house vet at Perfect Pet Insurance, is urging owners to look beyond the packaging and think carefully about how their dog actually plays before handing over a new toy. While some dogs gently carry toys around, others will tear, chew and swallow whatever they can get between their teeth, meaning a toy that is safe for one pet could be dangerous for another.
Aggressive chewers in particular are at greater risk of dental damage, choking or digestive problems if they are given toys that are too hard, too small or likely to break apart. Tom said owners should “always choose toys designed specifically for dogs,” adding that they should be checked regularly for wear and tear and replaced “as soon as they start to break down.”
He also recommends matching toys to a dog’s size, breed and chewing behaviour, rather than picking the cheapest or most convenient option. Tom said: “The safest toys are usually those that are well-made from reputable brands, size appropriate and suited to how a dog naturally plays.”
He advises owners to supervise play with any new toy, inspect toys often for signs of damage and remove them immediately if parts start coming loose. Puppies should be watched with extra caution
Choosing the right toy may seem simple, but getting it wrong can have painful and costly consequences, so it is worth taking the time to find options that are both fun and safe. To help owners make safer choices, Tom has shared five types of dog toy he would avoid giving his own pet.
1. Hard plastic or metal toys
These may seem durable, but toys that are too hard can actually do more harm than good. Strong chewers can crack or wear down their teeth on very tough materials, especially if they repeatedly bite with force. If a toy feels harder than your dog’s teeth, it may not be the safest option.
2. Cheap rubber or plastic toys
Low-quality toys can split, snap or shed pieces very quickly, particularly in the mouths of enthusiastic chewers. As well as creating a choking hazard or potential blockage in the gut, some poorly made products may be made from questionable materials that are not ideal for pets to chew on.
3. Frayed rope or string toys
Rope toys are popular with many dogs, but once they start to unravel they can become risky. Loose threads can be swallowed and may lead to digestive issues if they bunch up in the stomach or intestines. Owners should throw them away as soon as they begin to fray.
4. Tennis balls
Many dogs love tennis balls, but standard versions are not actually designed for canine mouths. Their rough, abrasive surface can gradually wear down teeth over time, especially in dogs that chew or fetch them often. They can also become a choking risk if the size is not right.
5. Small toys or toys with loose parts
Anything with squeakers, buttons, eyes or detachable sections can quickly become dangerous if your dog manages to rip it apart. Small toys or broken pieces can easily be swallowed or get stuck in the throat or intestines, making them a particular concern for larger dogs or heavy chewers
