Keep your dog occupied by choosing from a variety of dog toys at Lords & Labradors. Different toys are suited to different personalities, so whether your pup wants a collection of dog teddies or is happy with a squeaky dog toy, we have everything you need to keep them happy.
Part of being a dog parent is choosing toys and watching your dog love and play with the new toy you took time picking out because you knew they’d love it! Part of the frustration of being a dog parent is finding broken and damaged parts of a toy all around your home after your dog has ripped their lovely new toy apart! Our dogs seem to enjoy the destruction of their toys, but why is their instinct to destroy their toys so quickly? In this blog, we discuss why your dog destroys their toys.
Why Does My Dog Destroy His Toys
There are several reasons your dog will rip open their toys, and it’ll depend on the type of toy too. A plush toy may take minutes for them to destroy, where as a chew toy may take longer for them to get through. Ultimately, dog toys are designed to trigger their prey instinct and to keep boredom at bay. Every dog needs to release their energy from time to time, and if your dog is naturally high in energy, you might find they rip open their toys to create their own fun. If your dog does need to release their energy, try a puzzle toy which will reward them for using their brain and paws to get into their treat.
Although it may seem odd to us, destroying their toys will be fun to your dog. They’ll get immense satisfaction and mental stimulation after ripping open their toys, often panting in delight, proud of themselves. Although it seems like great fun, do monitor your dog whilst they’re destroying their toys to keep an eye on any potential choking hazards.
If you’re looking for an ‘indestructible’ dog toy, unfortunately it’s unlikely you’ll find one suitable for your pup. There are toys that your dog will find harder to destroy, however dog toys can’t be indestructible due to damage to your pups’ teeth/jaws. So, it’s best to buy the toys your dog can destroy safely – you can find our range of plush, squeak free, chew and squeaky toys here.
Why Do Dogs Shake Their Toys?
You may be wondering why your dog shakes their head aggressively with a toy in their mouth – this is their ‘shake and kill’ instinct coming through from their wolf ancestors. In the wild, the shaking would disorient and immobilise your dog’s prey. You’ll find this instinct is more prevalent in a hunting breed, such as a Labrador or Beagle, and they’ll destroy plush toys especially with squeakers quite quickly.
Are Dog Toys Meant To Be Destroyed?
Dog toys are designed to exercise your dogs prey instincts, however it is important if your dog does rip open their toys, to discard of the toy as soon as the toy becomes unsafe. You should remove anything inedible to avoid your dog ingesting anything they shouldn’t. This applies to all toys, even rubber toys once they rip/tear.
When it comes to engaging our canine companions in physical activities, fetch undoubtedly tops the list. The exhilaration of a well-executed throw and the boundless enthusiasm with which our dogs retrieve the thrown object are unparalleled joys for both pet and owner. To elevate this classic game of fetch, investing in the right dog throwing toys is paramount. In this comprehensive guide, we explore the best dog throwing toys on the market, ensuring your furry friend enjoys hours of playful exercise and stimulation.
The Significance of Dog Throw Toys
Dog throw toys, also known as dog throwing toys or throw and fetch dog toys, serve as a vital component of a dog's mental and physical well-being. These toys facilitate active play that enhances coordination, agility, and endurance in dogs. Additionally, they promote a strong bond between pets and their owners, as the shared activity fosters trust and connection. In the following sections, we delve into a curated selection of the best dog throwing toys, catering to various preferences and needs.
Our Top 5 Dog Throwing Toys
1. Chuckit! Sport Ball Launcher
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The Chuckit! Sport Ball Launcher is a pioneer in the realm of dog throwing toys. Designed for maximum throwing distance, this device allows you to effortlessly propel a range of compatible balls, from tennis balls to rubber balls.
Its ergonomic handle ensures a comfortable grip, reducing strain on your arm during extended play sessions. With its compatibility across different ball types, the Chuckit! Sport Ball Launcher is a versatile option suitable for dogs of all sizes.
2. GiGwi TPR Bone 'Flying Tug'
For pet owners seeking a more gentle and flexible option, the GiGwi TPR Bone 'Flying Tug' is a standout choice. Crafted from durable TPR material, this bone-shaped toy combines the thrill of fetch with an interactive tug-of-war element. The flexible yet sturdy design ensures a comfortable grip for both you and your dog. Its aerodynamic structure guarantees stable flight, making it perfect for outdoor play sessions that involve long throws.
What sets the GiGwi TPR Bone Flying Tug apart is its dual-purpose nature – serving as a flying toy for fetching and a tug toy for interactive playtime. This versatile toy not only engages your dog's body but also stimulates their mind, making it a well-rounded option for hours of play. The GiGwi TPR Bone 'Flying Tug' is a superb choice for pet owners who want to cater to their dog's fetch and tug preferences simultaneously.
3. KONG Squeak Air Tennis Ball with Rope
Embrace the wonders of technology with the KONG Squeak Air Tennis Ball with Rope. This innovative throwing toy adds a delightful twist to the classic game of fetch. The combination of a tennis ball and an attached rope creates an engaging dynamic that encourages interactive play.
The durable tennis ball is designed to emit an enticing squeak, further captivating your dog's attention and enhancing the excitement of the game.
The attached rope allows for easy throwing and provides an interactive element for tugging and shaking. This toy offers both mental and physical stimulation, ensuring your dog stays active and entertained for extended periods. The KONG Squeak Air Tennis Ball with Rope is a fantastic option for pet owners seeking a versatile and engaging throwing toy that adds an extra layer of fun to every fetch session.
4. Nerf Dog Tennis Ball Blaster
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The Nerf Dog Tennis Ball Blaster merges classic fetch with a playful twist. This toy doubles as a launcher and a ball blaster, allowing for exciting solo play. Simply load a tennis ball into the blaster, pull back the mechanism, and release to launch the ball with impressive distance. Its hands-free pickup feature ensures that you can avoid touching slobbery or muddy balls. The Nerf Dog Tennis Ball Blaster is a fantastic option for interactive fun in various outdoor settings.
5. Chuckit! Ultra Ball
The Chuckit! Ultra Ball is a must-have accessory for any dog throwing toy collection. This bouncy and durable ball is designed for long-lasting play, with an enticing texture that encourages dogs to fetch and carry it. Its buoyant nature makes it suitable for water-based play as well, adding versatility to your fetch sessions. The bright colors of the Chuckit! Ultra Ball ensure high visibility, even in tall grass or water.
In conclusion, the world of dog throwing toys offers a plethora of options to suit every dog's personality, play style, and size. By investing in high-quality throw and fetch dog toys, you provide your furry friend with not only physical exercise but also mental stimulation and a strengthened bond with you. Whether you opt for the Chuckit! Sport Ball Launcher, the Nerf Tennis Ball Blaster, or any other option mentioned, the joy and health benefits derived from interactive play are immeasurable. So, seize the opportunity to enhance your fetch game and create cherished memories with your four-legged companion.
Fetching a ball is not only a classic dog game but also an excellent exercise to stimulate your furry friend both mentally and physically. Teaching your dog to fetch requires patience, consistency, and a well-structured approach. In this guide, we will walk you through the step-by-step process of training your dog to fetch, whether it's a playful puppy or a mature companion.
Why do dogs like fetch?
Engaging in a game of fetch extends beyond mere entertainment—it fosters a dynamic interplay of energy expenditure and cherished companionship for both canine and human participants. Yet, delving into the roots of a dog's penchant for fetch unveils an intricate interplay of innate instincts and their desire to please their human counterparts. The act of chasing and dutifully returning an object encapsulates a canine's earnest aspiration to accomplish a task that resonates with their loyalty-driven nature. The allure amplifies, particularly when rewards are involved, rendering the endeavour a fulfilling gesture in their eyes.
Upon the fling of the ball, an intrinsic script unfurls within a dog's being. The ball's trajectory simulates the erratic movement of potential prey, a visual cue that prompts a primal reflex. This reflex, honed through generations of predatory heritage, compels the dog to retrieve the object, the echoes of their forebears reverberating in this playful pursuit. An intricate symphony of neural pathways culminates in the release of dopamine, activating their reward centres, and consequently magnifying the joy they derive from this interactive sport—mirroring the exhilaration of the hunt itself.
However, not all canines possess an equal fervour for fetch. Their breed and temperament interlace to determine their disposition toward this spirited game. For breeds steeped in their hunting lineage, such as Cocker Spaniels and Border Terriers, the act of capturing and returning a tossed ball epitomises an intrinsic yearning. This yearning, stemming from their primal impulse, thrives as an end in itself, fusing reward and satisfaction within the act of fetch.
In the tapestry of the dog-human relationship, fetch knits a narrative that stretches back through generations of cooperation, instinct, and companionship.
A Step by Step Guide To Teaching Your Dog Fetch
Understanding the Basics of Fetch
Before diving into the training process, it's essential to understand the fundamental concepts of fetch. Fetch involves five main steps:
Throwing the ball,
Chasing the ball,
Picking the ball up,
Bringing the ball back to you
Dropping the ball ready for you to throw again.
1. Choosing The Perfect Ball
Selecting the appropriate equipment can greatly influence your dog's ability to learn how to fetch. Opt for a ball or toy that is safe, durable, and easy for your dog to carry in its mouth. Tennis balls and rubber fetch toys are popular choices. Additionally, ensure you're in an enclosed area to prevent your dog from running off with the toy.
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For fetch we love the KONG Squeak Air balls which come in a range of sizes perfect for any dog and we also love the Chuckit Fetch Medley which includes three unique balls, each adding its own spin to fetch. Both Chuckit and KONG have their own ball launchers which make throwing long distances so much easier.
2. Introduce the Toy
Begin by introducing the ball or toy to your dog. Allow them to sniff and interact with it, creating a positive association. Playfully engage with the toy to spark your dog's curiosity, if your dog sees you being excited with the ball they will start to get excited about the ball too.
3. Use Positive Reinforcement
Positive reinforcement is key when teaching your dog to fetch. Reward your dog with treats, praise, or petting for any interaction with the toy. Gradually increase the criteria for rewards, only offering them when your dog shows interest in picking up the toy.
4. Teaching Retrieval
To teach your dog to retrieve, start by tossing the toy a short distance away. Encourage your dog to go after it by using an enthusiastic tone. If your dog picks up the toy and starts coming back, celebrate their success and reward them upon return.
5. Adding the "Drop" Command
Teaching your dog to drop the ball is another important aspect of fetch and is often the part of fetch most dog owners struggle with. When your dog returns to you, hold a treat close to their nose while giving the command "drop." As they release the toy to take the treat, reinforce the action with praise. If your dog is struggling with dropping the ball try playing the swap and drop game. For this you will need two balls, ones with a squeaker in tend to work better for this game. Begin by tossing the first ball, and when your enthusiastic pup dashes to retrieve it, introduce the second ball as a playful enticement - start squeaking the ball to entice them back.
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Once your pup returns to you, whether clutching the first toy or not, send the second ball off in a new direction. Seize the moment to pick up the first toy as they chase the second one. Now, let the delightful cycle commence: toss one ball, tease with the other. The excitement will likely build to a point where your pup can't wait to get that next toy, and the magic happens – dropping the first toy and happily loping it back to you. This joyful anticipation will gradually turn into habit, setting the stage for your dog to graduate to fetching with a solo toy.
6. Progress Gradually
As your dog becomes more comfortable with fetching, you can gradually increase the distance you throw the toy. Maintain the positive reinforcement and excitement throughout the training process.
7. Stay Patient and Consistent
Remember, every dog learns at their own pace. Be patient and maintain a consistent training routine. Keep sessions short and engaging, ending on a positive note to keep your dog excited about fetch.
8. Practice Makes Perfect
Consistent practice is the key to success. Regularly engage in fetch sessions with your dog to reinforce their skills and build a strong bond between you two.
In conclusion, teaching a dog to fetch is a rewarding endeavour that fosters both mental stimulation and physical activity. By following the steps outlined in this guide and tailoring them to your dog's unique personality, you'll be well on your way to enjoying countless hours of fetch-filled fun. So, grab that ball, get out there, and embark on an exciting journey of teaching your dog the art of fetch!
Dogs, like humans, have unique preferences when it comes to toys. One of the interesting choices dog owners often face is between silent and squeaky dog toys. Both types of toys have their advantages, and a dog's preference for one over the other can vary based on their personality, age, and individual preferences.
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