From splash pads to crustacean-shaped floating toys, we’ve got the perfect water toys for your dogs. Keep reading to learn more about our top ten picks.
Water toys are a great way to keep your dog entertained, engaged, and cool, especially during the hot summer months. Let’s delve into the different types of water toys available and how they can benefit your furry friend.
Water fetch toys are designed to float on water, making them perfect for games of fetch at the beach, pool, or lake. These toys often come in bright colors, making them easy for you and your dog to spot in the water. They’re ideal for dogs that love to swim and retrieve, offering an exciting twist on traditional fetch games.
Floating toys are great for dogs who enjoy swimming, as they encourage them to paddle and stay afloat. On the other hand, sinking toys can provide a fun challenge for more adventurous dogs, encouraging them to dive underwater. Both types of toys provide excellent physical exercise and mental stimulation.
These toys should only be within reach of dogs when an owner can closely supervise them. Take breaks often to make sure the pup isn’t swallowing of lot of water as well.
Erica Irish, DVM
Water sprinklers aren’t just for kids. Many dogs love playing with sprinkler toys, which shoot out water when activated. These toys can be a fun way to hydrate a parched pooch and keep them cool on hot days while also providing a unique play experience.
Interactive water toys are designed to stimulate your dog’s mind as well as their body. These toys might squirt water when bitten or feature compartments to hide treats, giving your dog a reward for their play.
👉Breeds that benefit from this type of stimulation are the highly intelligent border collie, the hard-working German shepherd, and the popular Labrador retriever, which all make great therapy dogs.
When selecting the perfect water toy for your dog, there are a few key features to consider.
Introducing your dog to water toys should be a fun and positive experience. Begin by allowing your dog to explore the toy in a safe, dry environment before slowly introducing it to water play.
Start small – Begin by introducing the water toy to your dog in a familiar, non-threatening environment. Let them sniff it, paw at it, and get used to its presence. This step is crucial for making your dog feel comfortable and ensuring they associate the toy with fun, positive experiences.
Associate the toy with playtime – Once your dog is comfortable with the new toy, start incorporating it into their regular playtime. Toss the toy around on dry land first before introducing it to water. The goal here is to help your dog understand that this new object is a fun addition to their play routine.
Gradually add the water element – Start with shallow water, such as a kiddie pool or a bathtub. Encourage your dog to retrieve the toy from the water, rewarding them with praise or treats when they do. Gradually increase the water depth as your dog becomes more confident.
Provide supervision – Always supervise your dog while they’re playing with water toys, especially in deeper water. Their safety is paramount, and being present also gives you the opportunity to engage with them, reinforcing the fun and positive nature of the activity.
👉If your dog doesn’t want to play in the water even with a slow introduction, don’t force it. Not all dogs are keen on playing in water. And, if they are, also consider location. Tropical and sub-tropical regions may have dangerous pathogens in rivers and lakes.
Playing with water toys not only keep your pup entertained but also offers several health benefits.
Water play is a great form of exercise, helping to keep your dog healthy and fit. It’s particularly beneficial for dogs with joint issues, as the water provides a low-impact environment for them to move around in. Adding a joint supplement to your dog’s diet can help increase these benefits.
Water play can also provide mental stimulation for your dog. Figuring out how to retrieve a sinking toy or interact with a new water toy can challenge your dog’s problem-solving skills, keeping their mind sharp.
While water play can be a lot of fun, it’s important to keep some safety considerations in mind.
Always supervise your dog while they’re playing in the water to prevent accidents or injuries. Even if your dog is a strong swimmer, they can still get into trouble in the water.
After a day of water play, make sure to rinse off your dog to remove any chlorine, salt, or dirt that could irritate their skin. Dry them thoroughly to prevent any fungal infections.
After playtime, rinse off the toys and either let them air dry or put them in the dryer on the air dry setting to prevent any mold or mildew. Regularly inspect them for any damage and replace them as needed to ensure your dog’s safety.
🚨Even fabric dog toys may contain plastic which can melt if exposed to heat. If you opt to use the dryer for your dog’s toys, stick with the air dry setting.
While it can be tempting to use a simple water bottle as a makeshift toy, it’s not recommended. Water bottles can break easily under a dog’s powerful jaws, creating sharp edges that may harm your furry friend. They may also ingest small plastic pieces, which can lead to health issues. Always opt for specially designed dog toys that prioritize safety and durability.
There’s a wide variety of water toys available for dogs! These include water fetch toys, floating and sinking toys, water sprinkler toys, and interactive water toys. Each type offers unique features and benefits, so there’s something for every dog’s play preference and style.
Choosing the right water toy for your dog involves considering their size, breed, play style, and personal preferences. Look for toys made from durable, non-toxic materials, and choose the appropriate size and shape for your dog. Also, consider the toy’s maintenance requirements and the reputation of the brand.
Maintaining and cleaning dog water toys is essential to ensure their longevity and your dog’s health. After each play session, rinse the toys off with clean water to remove any dirt or debris. Put toys in the dryer on the air dry setting, or allow them to air dry completely before storing them to prevent mold and mildew growth. Regularly inspect the toys for any damage and replace them as needed.
Many dog water toys can be used both indoors and outdoors. However, be mindful of the type of toy and the potential mess it could create. For instance, water sprinkler toys are best used outdoors, but floating or fetch toys can be used indoors, as long as you have enough space for safe play.
