Anyone who owns a pet knows how important toys are in their lives. Squeaky toys are a popular option for canine enrichment, as dogs enjoy the sound they create when they squeak. However, a concerned pet owner might wonder, ‘Are squeaky toys good or bad for dogs?’
Toy squeaks appeal to dogs’ natural desire to capture and kill, so they go “crazy” searching for the toy’s squeaker, often breaking a few in the process. As a result, some can ingest the squeaker, resulting in a trip to the clinic. Once the squeak ceases, they lose interest. It’s similar to a wild animal fleeing from a predator.
Squeaking toys can be addictive for dogs with a high prey drive who want to get at the squeaker. These dogs may become irritated and aggressive.
Are Squeaky Toys Necessary for Dogs?
Squeaky toys are an important part of every pet’s life, but dogs do not require them.
Squeaky toys appeal to a dog’s natural desire to hunt and kill. This is a common occurrence in predatory animals. Due to this, squeaky toys have the potential to elicit negative behaviors. Some of the manifestations include hyperactivity, aggression, and destructive tendencies.
Squeaky toys can be used as long as your dog does not show signs of hostility or stress while playing with them. The natural instincts of your dog will benefit if you let him play with these toys. Your dog can explore their “wild side” and release pent-up energy by ‘hunting’ squeaky toys.
What Is the Best Squeaky Toy for Dogs to Play With?
Rocco & Roxie Plush Squeak Toy – Best Overall
The all-natural, robust, and adorable Rocco and Roxie Plush Squeak Toy rapidly became a top pick for squeaking toys. These squeaky toys are made from eco-friendly materials that do not include toxic dyes or VOC polymers.
You can choose from several animal shapes, including vultures, Triceratops, T-rex, lambs, and brontosaurus. These soft toys are great for snuggling, so dogs can take them to bed with them to get some shut-eye.
In some cases, certain design options may be more long-lasting than others. If your dog is a bit of a roughhouser, consider a design with fewer little components, such as a triceratops or a brontosaurus.
KONG Dog Squeaker Tennis Ball – Premium Choice
Without question, the KONG Air Dog Squeaker Tennis Ball is one of the top pet toys on the market. This tennis ball comes in a pack of 12 and has a strong squeaker for added excitement.
These balls are larger than conventional tennis balls and are excellent for medium to large dog types. If your pet is prone to losing its squeaky toys, it’s time to stock up!
Nerf Dog Squeak Rubber ball – Best Value
If you’re looking for the best squeaky dog toys on the market, you want something that is durable and will last a long time. Fortunately, the Nerf Dog 6997 Squeak Rubber Football is a low-cost solution that is sure to please even the most discriminating canine fanatic.
Dogs can readily retrieve these noisy toys both on land and in water. Because of their vibrant color selections, they’re easy to spot in low-light circumstances. This dog toy is also FDA-approved, BPA-free, and completely non-toxic, so you can rest assured that it is safe for your pet.
Medium and large canines will enjoy the Nerf Dog 6997 Squeak Rubber Football. This toy is too large for small dogs, who will be unable to transport it.
Related Questions:
What should I do if my dog swallows a squeaky toy?
If you don’t keep an eye on them, dogs can choke on squeaky toys or swallow them whole. Toys that are too small for a large dog can be eaten or become stuck in their throat, resulting in choking. Keep an eye on your pet whenever they are playing with a squeaky toy.
If the stuffing, squeaker, or other elements in this toy are ingested, they can be harmful. Immediately notify your veterinarian if your pet swallows a toy. Take your dog to the vet as soon as possible.
Are loud toys bad for a dog’s ear canal?
Most veterinarians consider squeaky toys designed specifically for dogs to be harmless.
Squeaky toys are unlikely to be damaging to a dog’s ears. The higher frequencies produced by these toys are easily recognized by most canines. In fact, they can be used to detect deafness or hearing loss in dogs.
