15 Hazardous Dog Toys You Should Throw Out Now
Not every wagging tail means things are all good. Some seemingly harmless dog toys can hide serious risks that could land your pup in trouble. A little knowledge can go a long way in keeping your pet safe. Let’s take a closer look at what’s really in your dog’s toy box.
Rawhide Chews
Rawhide might seem like a safe chew, but it can swell inside your dog’s stomach and can cause blockages. The manufacturing process sometimes involves chemicals that may be toxic. If pieces break off, they pose a major choking hazard. So, it is always better to double-check what it is made of.
Cooked Bones
Stick to veterinarian-approved chew options instead of this one. Unlike raw bones, cooked ones lose their flexibility when heated, which makes them highly dangerous. They splinter easily, turning into sharp shards that can pierce a dog’s throat, stomach, or intestines. Emergency surgeries due to internal injuries are common.
Rope Toys
Frayed rope toys are not just messy; they can become lethal if swallowed. Strands can bunch up in the intestines and create blockages. In severe cases, this requires emergency surgery. Heavy chewers are especially at risk, so always monitor rope toy usage or choose safer alternatives.
Tennis Balls
A favorite among dogs but surprisingly harmful. The fuzzy surface is abrasive, and the teeth wear down over time. Chewed-up bits can also become choking hazards. Large breeds can even crush a tennis ball, risking airway obstruction. Frequent chewing may also introduce bacteria and increase the risk of oral infections.
Stuffed Toys With Squeakers
Many dogs rip toys apart, which exposes stuffing and plastic squeakers, and they both pose severe choking risks. Swallowed squeakers can obstruct airways or cause intestinal blockages. If your dog loves squeaky toys, choose reinforced ones with hidden, secured squeakers and monitor playtime closely.
Latex Or Vinyl Toys
Cheap latex or vinyl dog toys might contain harmful chemicals like phthalates or BPA. Some materials release toxic fumes when chewed. If a toy smells overwhelmingly of plastic, it’s best avoided. Always look for non-toxic, BPA-free labels to ensure the safety of your pet.
Marrow Bones
Large breeds may get their lower jaw stuck inside the bone, which results in painful extractions. Marrow bones seem like a natural chew, but they’re notorious for cracking teeth. In some cases, they can create a suction effect, which can trap a dog’s tongue.
Cheap Squeaky Toys
Low-quality squeaky toys often have loose or poorly secured squeakers. Dogs that love to shred their toys can easily swallow them, and that can lead to intestinal blockages or choking hazards. So, choose durable brands that encase squeakers in layers of reinforced fabric to minimize risks.
Children’s Toys
Stick to vet-recommended toys specifically designed for pet use. Some children’s toys contain toxic dyes or materials that are unsafe for consumption. Batteries and thin plastic can easily be chewed off and swallowed. Not to mention, durable-looking toys can break apart under strong jaws.
Balls With A Single Hole
A single-hole ball can create a deadly suction effect, which can trap a dog’s tongue and lead to fatal injuries. Always choose balls with at least two ventilation holes to prevent this risk. Close supervision during play can also help prevent unexpected dangers.
Plastic Chew Toys
Small plastic fragments can linger in a dog’s stomach, which causes blockages or long-term digestive issues. Brittle plastic toys break apart easily, which creates sharp edges that can lead to internal injuries. Even tiny swallowed pieces can accumulate over time, and it means they’re far more risky than they seem.
Pig Ear Treats
Once considered a safe chew, pig ears are now linked to bacterial contamination, including Salmonella, which is dangerous to both dogs and humans. Additionally, they are high in fat, which can trigger pancreatitis in sensitive dogs. Safer options include dehydrated meats or vet-approved treats.
Small Toys With Detachable Parts
Dog toys with buttons or small detachable parts present a major choking hazard. If ingested, they can cause intestinal perforation. Always inspect toys for loose parts before giving them to your dog, and discard anything that looks worn out or damaged.
Glow-In-The-Dark Toys
Glow-in-the-dark dog toys often contain phosphorescent chemicals that may be harmful if ingested. If chewed apart, they can leak toxic substances. No matter if it is labeled as safe, monitor your dog closely while playing with such toys, and consider switching to non-glowing alternatives.
Toys With Strings Or Ribbons
Ribbons or long fibers on toys can lead to deadly intestinal blockages if swallowed. In severe cases, this can require emergency surgery. Avoid toys with dangling components, or ensure your dog doesn’t chew them apart. Choose safer, well-constructed options for peace of mind.
