The lockdown rules and regulations have recently been relaxed in England which means some of us can now leave our homes for extended periods to exercise more. As long as we keep to strict social distancing measures we can now take a trip to the coast, or to other places of natural beauty which means longer dog walks and play dates with our four legged friends. This week we thought we’d talk about some of our favourite dog toys to take to the park or the beach, as well as some fabulous accessories. We’ve been indoors for a couple of months so why not treat your pup to a new throwing toy or harness?!
The Best Dog Toys for the Beach
If you find yourself on a quiet beach, these throwing toys are ideal for a great game of fetch. We’d suggest something bright so you don’t easily lose it, and something that can float so you can extend your games into the water. We have a great selection of choices that would be ideal.
Chuckit Tennis Balls - These ultra tough tennis balls are designed specifically with dogs in mind, with the same shape as a regular tennis ball but being much more durable. The bright neon orange colour will be easy to spot from metres away and they even float so are great for playtime near the sea. If you have the beach to yourself why not combine with the Chuckit Ball Launcher to get even more distance out of your throw?!
KONG Belly Flops Lobster - Designed to float in water, the KONG Belly Flops lobster is the perfect companion for the beach. It has a unique belly-spinning action which will help engage your pup and is made of a strong material for long-lasting play
All For Paws Chill Out Range - These fruit themed toys are perfect for the beach, they soak up water and release in hot weather to cool your pup. They also crickle and squeak making them irresistible for your dog!
Find some other things we think you should take to the beach with your dog in our Beachtime Collection here!
The Best Dog Toys for the Park
Now that many of our open spaces are opening back up again, afternoons in the park might be more common for many of us. Longer walks and more time outdoors mean more exercise for you and your pet. We suggest taking some fun toys with you so you can make the most of having the extra room again. It will be less crucial that you choose toys that can float, opening up the options here.
Beco Ball on a Rope - Beco make winderful, eco-friendly dog toys. This ball on a rope comes in a few different colours and two sizes. The rope allows you to throw the toy greater distances than a regular ball, and could be used for games of tug too. The whole toy is made from naturally toxin free materials so it’s good for the environment not to mention loads of fun!!
Nerf Trackshot Launcher Duck - This Nerf dog toy can be launched up to 75 feet making it ideal for playtime in the park. Made of a tear resistant woven nylon with PU rubber coating that will ensure it can withstand your dogs teeth. Your dog will get loads of exercise running and chasing after this!
Nerf Tennis Ball Blaster - It’s well known that dogs love tennis balls and Nerf have a great range of tough and durable tennis balls designed specifically for your canine friends. Take you games of fetch to the next level with this tennis ball blaster. This is great for places like the park where there is lots of open wide spaces. It’ll launch your tennis balls further than a regular throw making it even more fun for your dog.
Don’t forget your other Dog Travel Accessories too!
The slight ease in the lockdown restrictions means you may be able to stay out for a whole afternoon. As long as you can socially isolate when you’re out and about, a picnic in the park may well be possible. Don’t forget to take your other travel things with you in case you're out of the house for an extended period of time. If its a day at the beach you might want to take your dog’s drying coat and some wipes to clean them off after a dip in the sea. If it’s a day at the park you might take along a travel bag with dog food and water so your dog can join in the picnic fun.
The lockdown rules and regulations have recently been relaxed in England which means some of us can now leave our homes for extended periods to exercise more. As long as we keep to strict social distancing measures we can now take a trip to the coast, or to other places of natural beauty which means longer dog walks and play dates with our four legged friends. This week we thought we’d talk about some of our favourite dog toys to take to the park or the beach, as well as some fabulous accessories. We’ve been indoors for a couple of months so why not treat your pup to a new throwing toy or harness?!
The Best Dog Toys for the Beach
If you find yourself on a quiet beach, these throwing toys are ideal for a great game of fetch. We’d suggest something bright so you don’t easily lose it, and something that can float so you can extend your games into the water. We have a great selection of choices that would be ideal.
Chuckit Tennis Balls - These ultra tough tennis balls are designed specifically with dogs in mind, with the same shape as a regular tennis ball but being much more durable. The bright neon orange colour will be easy to spot from metres away and they even float so are great for playtime near the sea. If you have the beach to yourself why not combine with the Chuckit Ball Launcher to get even more distance out of your throw?!
KONG Belly Flops Lobster - Designed to float in water, the KONG Belly Flops lobster is the perfect companion for the beach. It has a unique belly-spinning action which will help engage your pup and is made of a strong material for long-lasting play
All For Paws Chill Out Range - These fruit themed toys are perfect for the beach, they soak up water and release in hot weather to cool your pup. They also crickle and squeak making them irresistible for your dog!
Find some other things we think you should take to the beach with your dog in our Beachtime Collection here!
The Best Dog Toys for the Park
Now that many of our open spaces are opening back up again, afternoons in the park might be more common for many of us. Longer walks and more time outdoors mean more exercise for you and your pet. We suggest taking some fun toys with you so you can make the most of having the extra room again. It will be less crucial that you choose toys that can float, opening up the options here.
Beco Ball on a Rope - Beco make winderful, eco-friendly dog toys. This ball on a rope comes in a few different colours and two sizes. The rope allows you to throw the toy greater distances than a regular ball, and could be used for games of tug too. The whole toy is made from naturally toxin free materials so it’s good for the environment not to mention loads of fun!!
Nerf Trackshot Launcher Duck - This Nerf dog toy can be launched up to 75 feet making it ideal for playtime in the park. Made of a tear resistant woven nylon with PU rubber coating that will ensure it can withstand your dogs teeth. Your dog will get loads of exercise running and chasing after this!
Nerf Tennis Ball Blaster - It’s well known that dogs love tennis balls and Nerf have a great range of tough and durable tennis balls designed specifically for your canine friends. Take you games of fetch to the next level with this tennis ball blaster. This is great for places like the park where there is lots of open wide spaces. It’ll launch your tennis balls further than a regular throw making it even more fun for your dog.
Don’t forget your other Dog Travel Accessories too!
The slight ease in the lockdown restrictions means you may be able to stay out for a whole afternoon. As long as you can socially isolate when you’re out and about, a picnic in the park may well be possible. Don’t forget to take your other travel things with you in case you're out of the house for an extended period of time. If its a day at the beach you might want to take your dog’s drying coat and some wipes to clean them off after a dip in the sea. If it’s a day at the park you might take along a travel bag with dog food and water so your dog can join in the picnic fun.
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Cats are curious, playful, and intelligent creatures who need regular stimulation to stay happy and healthy. Whether you have a lively kitten or a relaxed indoor cat, having the right toys is essential to keep them entertained and mentally engaged. In this guide, we’ll explore some of the best cat toys that will keep your feline friend pouncing, chasing, and having the time of their lives.
Why Are Cat Toys Important?
Toys do more than just entertain your cat—they provide essential mental and physical stimulation. Playtime helps cats:
Exercise and stay fit – Especially for indoor cats who may not get much natural movement.
Satisfy hunting instincts – Cats have a natural predatory drive, and toys help satisfy their urge to chase and pounce.
Prevent boredom – Keeping your cat entertained can help prevent unwanted behaviours such as scratching furniture or excessive meowing.
Bond with their owners – Playing with your cat helps strengthen your bond and provide much-needed interaction.
Now that we understand why toys are important, let’s dive into the different types and their benefits.
Teasers and Wand Toys
Teasers and wand toys are some of the best interactive cat toys available. These toys usually consist of a long stick with feathers, ribbons, or small plushies attached to the end. They’re perfect for engaging your cat in an exciting game of chase. We love the KONG Cat Wubba Teaser Boa, it has a rattle and a crinkle sound, as well as being infused with premium North American catnip so it is sure to keep even the most curious of cats entertained.
Why your cat will love them:
Encourages natural hunting behaviour.
Provides great exercise and agility training.
Offers an excellent opportunity for interactive playtime with you.
Tip: Opt for teaser toys with bells or crinkle sounds to grab your cat’s attention even more.
Laser Pointers
Laser pointers are an all-time favourite when it comes to best toys for indoor cats. They offer endless fun as your cat tries to chase the elusive red dot.
Why your cat will love them:
Provides a great cardio workout.
Keeps them mentally sharp and focused.
Helps burn off extra energy, especially in kittens.
Safety note: Always ensure you end playtime with a physical toy your cat can catch to prevent frustration.
Interactive Cat Toys
When it comes to mental stimulation only the best interactive cat toys will do. These toys often feature elements that move unpredictably, such as automated spinning balls, puzzle toys, and treat dispensers. We love the Catit Senses Circuits for keeping our cats entertained, the modular design allows you to add and swap different elements of the circuit to keep your cat stimulated and entertained.
Why your cat will love them:
Keeps them mentally stimulated and engaged.
Helps with problem-solving skills.
Provides independent playtime when you're not around.
Interactive toys are perfect for cats who need a little extra mental challenge to keep boredom at bay.
Balls and Rolling Toys
Simple yet effective, balls and rolling toys are a fantastic addition to your cat’s toy collection. Whether they’re filled with catnip or have jingling bells inside, they offer hours of entertainment.
Why your cat will love them:
Encourages active play and exercise.
Provides an outlet for their hunting instincts.
Easy to chase and bat around the house.
If you're looking for the best kitten toys, lightweight balls that are easy to carry and swat are ideal.
The Best Catnip Toys
Catnip toys are an absolute delight for most cats. Infused with the irresistible scent of catnip, these toys can provide hours of playful fun and relaxation.
Why your cat will love them:
Encourages playful behaviour and excitement.
Helps with stress relief and relaxation.
Ideal for lazy afternoons when your cat needs a boost of energy.
If you're searching for the best catnip toys, look for plush toys filled with high-quality, organic catnip for a lasting effect. Shop our range of premium catnip toys here.
Choosing the Right Toy for Your Cat
When selecting toys for your cat, consider their personality and play style. Some cats prefer chasing and pouncing, while others enjoy batting or problem-solving. Having a mix of different toys ensures your feline friend stays entertained and happy.
Tips for Playtime Success:
Rotate toys regularly to keep things fresh.
Supervise play with string or small toys to prevent accidents.
Encourage play by incorporating treats or catnip.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re looking for the best kitten toys to keep your little one entertained or the best interactive cat toys to challenge your feline’s mind, there are plenty of options to choose from. Keeping your cat engaged with a variety of stimulating toys helps ensure they stay happy, healthy, and active.
Looking to upgrade your cat’s toy collection? Explore the exciting range of cat toys at Lords & Labradors and treat your feline to endless fun!
It turns out there is a lot more going on in that wind-blown, tongue-lolling moment than it might appear. The joy your dog feels hanging out of a car window is rooted in some genuinely fascinating science, and understanding it makes the whole thing even more delightful to watch. From the way their nose processes the rushing air to the mental workout that comes with every new smell and sound, here is what is actually happening for your dog when the window comes down.
Why dogs love sticking their heads out of car windows
That blissful, ears-flapping-in-the-breeze moment when your dog hangs their head out the car window isn't just about looking adorable (though they absolutely do). Dogs stick their heads out of car windows because the rushing air delivers an incredible sensory experience that we humans can barely imagine. While we might catch a whiff of freshly cut grass or someone's barbecue, your dog is processing hundreds of scent stories at once—a rich, ever-changing map of the world rushing past.
The moving air also brings exciting sounds and feels wonderfully stimulating against their face and ears. Many dogs genuinely find this thrilling, their version of a roller coaster ride. You'll often see pure joy in their expression: tail wagging, mouth slightly open in that happy panting way that says they're having the time of their life.
Think about it from their perspective. Your dog experiences the world primarily through their nose, which has up to 300 million scent receptors compared to our measly 6 million. That highway wind isn't just air—it's a constant stream of fascinating information about other animals, interesting places, and adventures waiting around the next bend.
Understanding why dogs love this behavior helps you make thoughtful choices about when to let them enjoy it and when you might want to keep the windows up a bit more. It's not about denying them fun, but finding that sweet spot where they can experience those amazing scents and sensations while staying comfortable and secure.
What your dog is actually experiencing when the window is down
When your dog pushes their nose through that open car window, they're diving into a sensory experience that's far richer than anything we can imagine. Think of it as the difference between watching a nature documentary and actually hiking through a rainforest. Each dog experiences this differently, but there are several key factors at play.
Scent overload in the best possible way - Dogs experience the world primarily through smell, and an open car window delivers thousands of new scents in rapid succession. Every tree, restaurant, other dog, and person you pass creates a constantly changing smell map that's absolutely fascinating to your pup. It's like speed-reading their favorite book, except the book keeps changing every few seconds.
Mental stimulation from novelty - The rapidly changing scenery, sounds, and smells provide intense mental enrichment. For dogs who spend most days in familiar environments, this sensory variety is like getting to explore a dozen new places in minutes. Your Border Collie's brain is working overtime, and they love every second of it.
Airflow feels incredible - The rushing air provides cooling relief and physical comfort, especially for dogs with thick coats or those who naturally run warm. It's their version of sticking your hand out the sunroof on a perfect spring day.
Natural temperature regulation - Since dogs don't sweat like we do, that cool airflow helps them regulate their body temperature more effectively than air conditioning alone. Their tongues and panting can only do so much.
Excitement conditioning - Many dogs learn to associate open windows with adventures: trips to the park, beach days, or visiting their favorite humans. The window becomes part of the anticipation itself.
Your individual dog might be driven by one or all of these factors. This behavior taps into natural canine instincts for exploration and environmental awareness, not just a cute quirk we've imagined they enjoy.
Is it happiness, instinct, or stress?
When your dog pokes their head out the car window, it's tempting to assume they're having the time of their life. While many dogs genuinely love the sensory adventure, reading their body language carefully helps you tell the difference between pure enjoyment and overwhelming stimulation. Some dogs who appear to be loving the ride might actually feel anxious or overstimulated by the rush of sights, sounds, and smells.
Signs of Enjoyment
Signs of Stress/Overstimulation
Relaxed, loose body posture
Tense muscles, rigid stance
Soft, bright eyes with natural blinking
Frantic scanning, wide or staring eyes
Gentle, steady panting
Excessive drooling or rapid, heavy panting
Loose, rhythmic tail wagging
Rigid tail position or erratic movements
Alert but calm expression
Restless shifting or whining
Occasional glances back at you
Inability to settle or focus
Think of it this way: a dog with soft eyes and relaxed shoulders is probably enjoying the sensory buffet, while one with tense muscles and frantic eye movements might be feeling like they're drowning in too much information at once. The difference between happy excitement and anxious overstimulation can be surprisingly subtle, especially when you're focused on the road.
Watch your dog's overall demeanor throughout the journey, not just in those first few moments of window time. A truly content dog will maintain that relaxed body language and might even pull their head back in occasionally to check in with you. An overstimulated pup, on the other hand, will show increasing signs of tension as the ride continues. This awareness helps you create car experiences that genuinely enhance your dog's happiness rather than accidentally turning every trip into sensory overload.
Letting them enjoy the ride safely
You don't have to choose between your dog's joy and their safety during car rides. A few simple adjustments can let your pup experience all those amazing scents and sensations while keeping them secure and comfortable.
Crack windows instead of fully opening them - This gives your dog access to fresh air and new smells without letting them lean dangerously far out or risk debris hitting their eyes. Even a few inches provides plenty of that sensory adventure they're after, and you'll have peace of mind knowing they can't tumble out during an enthusiastic moment.
Use a proper dog car harness or seat belt - These restraints let your dog move around enough to enjoy the ride while preventing them from becoming your unexpected co-pilot mid-journey. Look for crash-tested options that attach to your car's existing seat belt system. Your dog still gets their window time, just without the acrobatics.
Consider a travel crate or carrier for smaller dogs - Little dogs can get the same sensory experience from a well-ventilated carrier positioned where they can see out the window. This keeps them extra secure while still letting them feel part of the adventure. Plus, many small dogs actually prefer the cozy den-like feeling.
Take regular breaks on longer trips - Stop every hour or two so your dog can stretch, sniff around, and get their fill of outdoor exploration. This satisfies their need for stimulation and often makes them more content to settle between stops. Think of it as giving them a proper "scent break" rather than trying to get it all through the window.
Keep the temperature comfortable - Fresh air feels wonderful, but watch that your dog isn't getting too hot or cold from the airflow. What feels refreshing at 30mph can become overwhelming at highway speeds.
These simple steps ensure your dog gets all those delicious scents and exciting sights without putting your beloved passenger at risk.
When to encourage it, when to redirect it, and what to do instead
Understanding why dogs stick their head out the window helps you make smarter choices about when to allow it and when to offer alternatives. If your dog shows relaxed body language and you're driving slowly through quiet neighborhoods, letting them enjoy the sensory experience can be wonderfully enriching. However, redirect this behavior on busy roads, at highway speeds, or when your pup seems overstimulated rather than content.
For anxious travelers, work on building positive car associations gradually. Start with short trips to fun destinations, keep windows cracked rather than fully open, and bring along a favorite blanket or toy for comfort. If your dog craves that sensory stimulation, satisfy their need for exploration through "sniffy walks" where they can investigate new scents at their own pace, or introduce puzzle toys that engage their natural curiosity.
Some dogs simply need more mental enrichment in their daily routine. A bored dog might seek intense sensory experiences like window surfing, while a well-exercised, mentally satisfied pup may be perfectly content to ride calmly with gentle airflow from slightly open windows.
This behavior is completely normal and stems from your dog's natural instincts. The goal isn't to eliminate their enjoyment but to channel it safely. Whether that means controlled window time on quiet streets or redirecting their energy into other enriching activities depends entirely on your individual dog's needs and temperament. Trust your instincts as a pet parent—you know your dog best.
