Dachshunds love many things and wool is one of them. We like wool because it is soft, natural and easy to carry around in our mouth. Cats are commonly shown to appreciate woolen balls. This association is constantly reinforced by movies and cartoons. Well, it turns out that dogs love wool as well. But is it safe? Let’s find out.
Especially in areas with a cold climate, you would have noticed your dog develop a liking toward your woolen sweaters, scarves or rugs. They often make these items their own and carry them around. They also tend to sleep with wool items as they offer warmth and comfort. The item might be badly worn or faded, but your dog will not trade it for anything else, even a brand new one. This is because they get attached to the item and it might mean something special to them; maybe it even reminds them of you.
Why Do Dogs Need Toys?
Toys are a very important part of your dog’s life. A toy can act as a companion to them, especially when they are alone. It is also a way for them to keep busy and avoid getting bored. If you choose the right toys for your dog, it will create a positive effect on his life. It can also help him overcome certain behavioral problems.
What Kind Of Toy Is Safe For Your Dog?
Like anything else, there are good toys and bad toys. Bad toys are those which can be easily ripped apart by your dog and that have parts that can be ingested and can prove to be hazardous. While choosing a toy, it is essential to check for durability.
It is also important to check for the right size for your dog, rather than going by age. Choose toys that are big enough that they cannot be ingested. Also, choose toys that have no small parts that might come off easily.
If you have a habit of giving squeaky toys to your dog, then make sure you give it only under supervision. Because dogs are usually focused on ripping apart the toy until the squeaker is out, there is a chance of ingesting it. The same goes for stuffed toys as well. Make sure you remove the toy the moment you know that it has been ripped apart.
Rubber toys are a good option as there are less likely to be ingested. Moreover, they are flexible so your dog will not have much pain while chewing.
When buying a toy for your dog, here are a few things to look for:
- Check for a tag that mentions if it is approved safe for dogs.
- Choose products that are made from natural materials like cotton, wool, jute, natural leather or rubber.
- Choose toys that are chemical-free and odorless. These chemicals are bound to cause problems once the dog starts licking and chewing the toy.
- Choose toys that can be washable. As you know, the toy is going to get soaked with drool and moreover, the dog will drag the toy around everywhere, getting it dirty so make sure the toy can be washed thoroughly and easily.
Can Dogs Eat Wool?
Yes. Dogs are a nuisance when it comes to finding and ingesting the most random things. You can catch them with their mouth on any new object they come into contact with and sometimes, they even try to lick and eat poop. By licking, biting, chewing and sometimes swallowing different objects, dogs explore and understand the world. So of course, they attempt to do the same with wool as well.
Ingesting wool is fairly easy and highly possible. Wool does not require long and hard biting sessions as the small fluffs and threads come off easily. They might stick to the tongue or teeth and get swallowed in due course. However, you will be relieved to know that ingesting a small amount of wool fuzz will not harm your dog. However, swallowing a whole toy will, of course, cause complications that could be severe.
How To Choose Wool Toys For Dogs?
Woolen toys have a natural texture and smell that attracts a dog more so than regular plastic toys or balls. Furthermore, these regular toys are treated with chemicals when they are manufactured and so might not be a good option for dogs.
There are several woolen balls available on the market that are made in an organic and durable manner without the usage of chemicals. These toys are made from 100% wool and as such, are completely natural.
Benefits Of Woolen Toys
- They are soft on the teeth and do not cause any bleeding or teeth pain even when chewed fiercely.
- There are no artificial elements or chemicals that might harm your dog.
- They help keep the mouth and teeth clean. I am sure this is enough reason for you to get a woolen toy immediately for your dog.
Woolen Toys For Dogs
These toys are great for puppies as the soft material offers good support for the teething process. Moreover, they are organic. The soft, natural texture of a woolen toy will also resemble a mother’s skin so a puppy will find comfort with the toy.
Also, make sure you change his toys regularly, especially after you notice signs of wear and tear. Another precaution is to wet the toy often (but I am pretty sure your dog would already have done so with his saliva) so that any stray strands of wool will stick back to the toy.
Organic Woolen Balls
Nowadays, there are several shops online that sell purely organic woolen toys for dogs. These toys are usually homemade and specially designed for dogs. They are dyed with natural colors and can also be rewashed easily. You can find several options for sizes, colors, shapes, and types. Check for customer reviews and they try purchasing a few toys for your dog. Remember to check for durability.
Wool Dryer Balls
Not many people know this, but wool dryer balls that you use to reduce the static in winter and help dry your clothes faster is actually a great toy for your dog. Unlike plastic or rubber balls, you can be happier with wool balls as they make no noise and it is highly unlikely that the ball might hit and break something.
Conclusion
Toys made from organic materials are a great option for dogs so naturally, wool is safe and friendly for your dog. However, make sure the toy is big enough for your dog. Also, make sure that the toy does not have any small parts that your dog can tear off and accidentally ingest.
An important feature of being a great dog owner is choosing the best and the safest toys for your dog. Always make sure a toy is as safe as possible before giving it to your dog.
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