We all know that our pets have a tendency to prefer playing, chewing and/or exploring through their mouth. From fetching balls to chewing bones, play is an essential part of a dog’s mental and physical health. But most traditional dog toys are constructed from chemicals, plastics, and other synthetic compounds that can be harmful for your dog as well as the environment. That is where natural dog toys come in. These environmentally friendly, non-toxic options offer you not only fun and safe entertain but also support a lifestyle of sustainability.
In this in-depth guide, we’re going to get into the benefits of natural dog toys, the different types that are out there, and some practical advice for finding the best natural options for your dog.
The Benefits of Natural Dog Toys
Organic dog toys are made from natural substances, including organic cotton, hemp, natural rubber, wool, and untreated wood. They won’t be exposed to toxic chemicals and artificial additives often present in typical toys. Opting for organic dog toys has numerous compelling advantages for your dog and the planet.
Safe and Non-Toxic
The safety of natural dog toys is one of its many benefits. Most store-bought dog toys are made with plastic, synthetic fabrics, and are treated with all sorts of chemicals, including toxic dyes and glues. When your dog gnaws on or swallows fragments of those toys, they can come into contact with hazardous chemicals that may cause health issues, such as digestive trouble, allergies, or even chronic diseases. Natural toys on the other hand, are made from safe and non-toxic materials that are easy on your dog’s body and are free from harsh chemicals.
Eco-friendly and Sustainable
Opting for natural dog toys is a step to more sustainable living as well. Most natural toys are even biodegradable or made from recyclable materials, so they help to lessen the amount of garbage in landfills and provide benefits to the environment. Materials including hemp, organic cotton and natural rubber produce from renewable sources in ways that are gentle on the planet. By buying into these products you’re buying into brands that are environmentally responsible and helping to lower your carbon footprint.
Supports Dental Health
Dogs chew by nature, and the right toy can also promote oral health. Natural rope toys made from hemp or organic cotton act as doggy dental floss, working to clean your dog’s teeth and gums, while traditional ropes can help massage gums and reduce plaque. Natural rubber toys can also help to minimise plaque and massage your pet’s gums for healthier teeth and fresher breath.
Encourages Mental Stimulation
Natural dog toysNatural dog toys are available in different patterns that stimulate mental activity. Puzzle toys, interactive feeders, and toys that you can insert treats into are also great at providing enrichment for your dog, your dog’s brain, and they can help keep your dog busy. This mental exercise can help prevent boredom and curb potential destructive behaviour such as excessive chewing, digging, or barking.
Durable and Long-Lasting
It may seem that dog toys made of natural materials wouldn’t stand up to a strong dog bite, but many natural dog toys are surprisingly tough. Durable natural rubber and hemp provide plenty of tooth conditioning and tug, and play. These toys offer a safe way to quench your dog’s chewing instincts while remaining stronger than your standard run-of-the-mill plush toy.
Types of Natural Dog Toys
Natural dog toys are available in all manner of shape and form to meet the different playing requirements. Knowing the types of natural dog toys that are available can help you decide which type is best for your dog.
Chew Toys
Chew toys, especially those that are natural and formed from durable rubber or untreated wood, serve the dual function of satisfying your dog’s need to chew while enhancing dental health. These chomping toys are perfect for teething puppies, tough chewers, or any dog who just likes to gnaw.
Rope Toys
Hemp or organic cotton rope toys are great for tugging as well as chewing. The fibres in these toys aid in cleaning your dog’s teeth, naturally. They’re also biodegradable, which means they are good for the environment.
Plush Toys
Organic cotton or wool hand-knit soft toys are ideal for dogs that like to cuddle with or carry their toys. These are softer choices that most puppies and some senior dogs may not chew on, but can be perfect for gentle play.
Fetch Toys
If dogs love fetching, natural rubber balls or sustainably harvested wood sticks are both great options. Your dog can safely carry these toys in their mouth, which are durable enough for fetching, tossing, and biting repeatedly.
Puzzle and Enrichment Toys
Natural puzzle toys, including rubber chewing toys that dispense treats and wooden interactive puzzles, engage your dog’s ability to solve problems. This encourages mental engagement and deters boredom, especially in high-energy or intelligent dog breeds.
Edible Chews
A few natural dog toys—antlers, bully sticks and dehydrated bones, some say—are also edible treats. Even though these can keep your dog busy chewing for hours, be sure to monitor your dog while they chew to prevent any choking hazards.
Tips for Choosing the Right Natural Dog Toy
Not all toys are the same and what is suitable for one dog might not be suitable for another. Just take a look at this post for some must-know tips on choosing the best natural dog toy for your fast-growing pup.
Consider Your Dog’s Size and Chewing Style
Bigger dogs and tough chewers need a toy that will hold up to their jaws. Select tough rubber or heavy hemp toys for these dogs. Smaller dogs, or those that take a more gentle approach to chewing, may enjoy softer toys like organic cotton plushies.
Watch for Allergies
Natural materials are, in general, safer, but if your dog has problems with sensitivities. New toys should be introduced one at a time to your pup, and even then, we suggest they be introduced with supervision.
Prioritise Safety
Be sure your toy is free from loose or broken parts, sharp edges, small parts, loose strings, or other accessories that could pose a choking hazard. Choose toys that are non-toxic and made from certified organic or sustainably sourced materials.
Rotate Toys for Variety
Keep your dog’s playtime fun and interesting by periodically making it new. It’s a great way for your dog to not get bored and continue to play with their toys, instead of trying to find new ways to have fun (aka chewing on your furniture and shoes).
Supervise Playtime
Natural toys may become worn over time, too, no matter how safe they are. Remember to check your dog’s toys for damage regularly and replace them whenever they become damaged. Supervised play is particularly crucial with these sorts of edible toys, such as antlers or bones.
Conclusion
Organic dog toys, are a healthy, safe and eco-friendly way to keep your dog entertained mentally and physically. And by selecting toys that are constructed from eco-friendly materials such as organic cotton, hemp, and natural rubber, you’ll be keeping harmful chemicals away from your dog and doing your bit for the planet at the same time. So whether your dog is into chewing, tugging, fetching or solving puzzles, there’s a natural toy to fit the bill. Keep in mind your dog’s size, chewing habits, and play style when choosing toys, and remember to prioritize safety.
When you invest in natural dog toys you are ensuring that your dog has fun and is continually engaged in play and you’re also making a good decision for their health and for the health of your planet. So the next time you’re shopping for your fur baby, make the natural choice — because a happy dog and a healthy earth? Totally worth it.
