Dogs and humans have many traits and needs in common. We require love, food, water, sleep, relaxation, and playtime to be at our very best. Playtime is perhaps even more important in our pets because it gives them the opportunity to find constructive outlets for their energy, and keeps boredom from setting in. Compared to humans, a pet has very few possessions that are uniquely theirs. Even though this article is titled Shih Tzu Toys, the advice here is equally applicable to other breeds,. Especially to small, medium and toy breeds. Always make sure that your pup has the best of the things that are important to them. Having plenty of toys for your Shih Tzu will also allow them to play on their own, potentially keeping them out of trouble when you are away from the home.
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Best toys for Shih Tzu
Different breeds have different requirements when it comes to feeding, treats, and play. What is best for a Bull Mastiff will be of no use to your tiny Shih Tzu. When it comes time to go toy shopping, there are several things to keep in mind. Since you want to encourage constructive, not destructive chewing, consider the recommendations listed below:
- Every toy should have its own purpose. You may have one for comfort, one for training, one for mental growth, etc.
- Toys should be entertaining and catch the attention of your pet. Be on the lookout for toys that move, make interesting sounds, or are brightly coloured. When a toy moves and interacts with your Shih Tzu, they feel as if they are playing with someone.
- Toys that give out treats are necessary to have for those times when you may need to be away from your pup longer than usual.
- Shih Tzus love to play fetch, just like any other breed. A good supply of balls is something you will not be able to do without.
- There are many different toys on the market aimed at increasing the intelligence level of dogs. Learning toys are perfect for keeping your dog thinking and striving to solve the puzzle.
Shih Tzu favourite toys
Each dog has their own personality, and they will all have their own personal favourite toys. While your pup may be addicted to balls or tug ropes, the Shih Tzu down the street may choose squeaky toys every time. The best way to figure out what your dog likes the most is simply to buy several different types and watch to see how they react with each one. While this is just a guideline, the majority of Shih Tzu owners agree that the following are among their pet’s must haves:
- Stuffed toys – both large and small
- Squeaky toys
- Rope toys
- Balls
- Nylon chew bones
Best toys for Shih Tzu puppies
The easiest way to stop destructive chewing is to make sure that it never begins in the first place. This is where toys become essential for the happiness of both you and your pet. From roughly four weeks of age and up, you will want to consider the list below when shopping time comes:
- Toys should not have any small parts. Look specifically for items that a pup would be unable to break into little pieces, as this will present a choking hazard.
- Easy to clean rubber toys are perfect for puppies who are not yet able to be potty trained. The nesting area is not always the cleanest place to play, and having clean toys will help with your pet’s developing health.
- Squeaky toys quickly grab the attention of most pups. As puppies’ teeth are very sharp, look for toys that are durable enough to withstand the onslaught of razor-teeth.
- Balls are perfect for puppies to practice their walking skills. They are unable to ignore the lure of a moving object, and will get little spurts of exercise at the same time.
Best chew toys for Shih Tzu puppies
Puppies learn what to do and what not to do through trial and error. They are unable to determine on their own that the black leather object currently covered in tooth marks is a designer shoe.
When looking for the best chew toys for puppies, consider the following criteria:
- Dental chews for puppies are excellent for encouraging healthy chewing, as well as promoting the growth of new teeth. Always check with your vet first for recommendations.
- Rubber toys of any shape are great for pups. Carefully inspect them before buying to ensure that they are made of a rugged material.
- Every pup should have his or her own stuffed toy. Check to reassure yourself that the item you have chosen does not rip apart easily, or that there are no small pieces present.
- Look for toys that have more than one texture at the same time. Things that mysteriously change on their own fascinate puppies. One example would be a nylon stick toy with raised areas on one side, hard rubber at one end, and a squeaker somewhere in the middle.
- Check out reviews for products you are considering for your Shih Tzu puppy. Other owners can provide valuable feedback on what is good and what is not.
Shih Tzu puppy teething toys
Thankfully, for you and your pup, there are many teething toys available to purchase. Below is a list of appropriate products:
- Frozen teething toys work wonders for puppies. Similar to teething rings for human babies, the cold numbs the gums, lessening the pain and calming inflamed eruptions. Dogs also like to chew on ice cubes for the same reason.
- Most pups like to be distracted with rubber toys containing treats. A simple idea is to put peanut butter or canned food inside, and place in the freezer for several hours. This offers maximum relief time because it takes so long for your pup to work their way through them.
- Look for sturdy toys that contain protrusions. The varying texture is excellent for “itching” various areas of the gums that may be hard to reach otherwise. Rubber or nylon is good material to choose from, and they can be found in a pacifier shape.
- Flavoured teething toys also work quite well. They keep your puppy interested and distracted, especially if you have several different kinds.
- Make sure that any toy you purchase is easy to keep clean. They are drool-covered quickly and you do not want harmful bacteria going back into your puppy’s mouth.
Shih Tzu cuddly toys
Cuddle toys help many dogs get over separation anxiety and other fears. They are used to simulate the feel of a littermate beside them, and they seem to give confidence to other, more nervous animals.
When choosing cuddly toys for your Shih Tzu, here are several things to keep in mind:
- Whichever fabric you choose, make sure it is easily laundered. Toys will get dirty on a regular basis, and along with nasty bacteria, they can also begin to harbour a foul smell.
- Experiment with different shapes, sizes, and colors to see what your pup prefers. Give them a choice of several different ones and pay attention to the toy that gets picked most often. To save yourself trouble down the road, once you have determined your Shih Tzu’s favourite cuddly toy, purchase a couple of extras. No matter how gentle your dog is with their possessions, it is unlikely that it will last forever.
- Choose toys that have no parts capable of falling off and becoming choking hazards. Pass on the ones that contain buttons, googly eyes, and other similar embellishments.
- A common practice among many small breeds is sucking on their stuffed toys. Ensure they are not stuffed with rice, beads, or other items. Squeakers are fine as long as they are not easily accessible.
Shih Tzu mini toys
Even though most small dogs will attempt to play with anything that looks interesting, there are mini toys, sized perfectly for your pup’s enjoyment. This saves them the potential embarrassment of being seen trying to drag around toys better suited to King Kong! Almost any play item is available in a variety of sizes so finding a good fit with your pup will not be an issue. Read the ideas below for inspiration:
- Invest in a couple of high-quality balls. Make sure they are too large to be swallowed, yet small enough to be carried easily. To keep your pup better entertained look for balls with irregular surfaces – they make unexpected movements which dogs find amusing.
- Nylon bones are made small enough to fit the petite mouth size of your Shih Tzu. A good idea is to keep several handy so that boredom does not set in. Try varying the textures and flavours as well.
- Many of the smaller breeds enjoy having their own blanket. Some will use it only when in their beds, while others carry it around everywhere with them. It is common to see pups suck on their blankets, especially if removed from the nest too early.
- Do not forget to pick up mini toys for stuffing with treats, or freezing for heat relief. Your local pet store will be able to give advice on which toys are the best for your baby, so use their knowledge to your advantage.
Dental tartar control toys for Shih Tzu
If you start when you pup is young, most dogs tolerate having their teeth brushed quite well. Others will not let you near them with a toothbrush no matter how hard you try. Whichever category your Shih Tzu falls into, using dental tartar control toys can significantly reduce the chances of your pet having problems. These types of toys generally fall into two categories; edible and non-edible.
- Edible toys are for the dog to consume. As they chew, plaque is sloughed away and tartar is removed. These come in an astonishing variety of sizes, shapes, and flavours. Many have added mint or parsley to freshen the breath as well. Along the same lines, you can also purchase liquid additives for the water bowl.
- Non-edible toys are not to be consumed. They are usually made of highly durable rubber or nylon. They have many different shapes and sizes, and the majority of them have a texture that is stimulating for the teeth and gums. If you are uncertain about which would be best for your pup, ask your vet or pet store expert for recommendations.