Why Doesn’t My Dog Like His New Toy?

Why Doesn’t My Dog Like His New Toy? While some dogs think everything they encounter – living or otherwise – is a toy made specifically for him, others shy away from them.

Some dog owners shell out big bucks only to find that Fido prefers to forego the expensive offerings. If you’ve ever asked yourself why your dog doesn’t like the new ball, rope, stuffed animal, or rubber chicken you just purchased, see what the following experts have to say.

Crazy Dog

According to a report from Canna-Pet, some dog owners introduce new toys with a slew of old toys in plain view.

“It’s possible that too many toys can cause overstimulation,” they write, going on to suggest that existing toys should be put away out of sight when introducing a new one.

Color Blind Dog?

Did you know that your dog’s eyesight could also play into his interest or lack thereof in his new toy? It’s true. Not only are dogs inherently nearsighted, but they only see certain colors. In fact, the only true colors dogs see include blue, yellow, and gray. They also see a rainbow color variations that include violet, blue, yellow, and orange. Dogs can’t see red. Is Fido’s new toy red? If so, you might just have your answer!

Which Toys Are Best?

The Humane Society of the United States says that different toys are good for different times, but that you shouldn’t ever introduce a new toy unless you’re present for the first couple of playtimes. They suggest some of the following:

1. Comfort toys – these include stuffed animals made for dogs. Make sure if your dog likes to shake their toys side to side that you purchase one large enough to survive the activity. Dogs sometimes enjoy carrying around soft toys the way children do.
2. Distraction toys – a Kong filled with peanut butter or tiny treats falls into this category, as are busy boxes and other feeder toys.
3. Active toys – include the likely all-around longtime favorite for dogs – a hard rubber ball. Tennis balls are fun, too, but must be thrown out if your pup starts to chew them up, as it poses a safety issue.

And lastly, safety is always first when it comes to our furry family members. All squeakers inside of toys should always be removed before play, as it’s easy for them to ingest them when left unsupervised. Also be sure to remove ribbons, strings, and eyes that could be easily chewed off and eaten.

Just one more bit of advice for discouraged pet owners whose dogs won’t eat your generous offerings. The Humane Society of the United States recommends rotating your dog’s toys. If you do this regularly, he or she is far more likely to take to the new toy you buy them.