We've all done it before. We buy the coolest, fanciest toy for our dogs. We can't wait to show them. The feeling of giving a gift to a loved one (furry, or otherwise) is the best feeling in the world! So naturally, we bring home the toy, present it to Fido, and...to our surprise, he plays with it for a second, sniffs nonchalantly, then walks away. Wait! But why?
It's frustrating and honestly kind of a bummer to see our pets uninterested in the things we give them but after doing some research, we now know why this happens. As it turns out, there's actually an easy way to fix this problem.
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We just have to stop for a second and think! What do our pets enjoy doing the most? Keep scrolling to read how to fix this annoying problem. You won't believe how easy it actually is.
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Don't be discouraged if your dog hasn't liked toys in the past.
Does your dog take one look at the new toy you purchased and then mostly ignore it in favor of something they really shouldn't be chewing on like your laptop charger or the couch?
We're about to change that, starting with this cute little gecko toy.
Does your pet like birds, lizards, or other animals but seem to be uninterested in regular toys?
This Outward Hound Invincibles Geckos Squeak Dog Toy is perfect for them. It has two squeakers for double the fun. There's no stuffing in this toy, so there's no mess involved and they can fling it around like a real gecko. Only, you know, less gross.
It's important to get your pet a fresh toy. This will help him get acclimated and make it his own.
Don't know where to start? We've got you. Keep reading to find the ideal toy for your dog.
A chew toy works really well for this.
Every dog that I have ever had loves to chew. They go through toys like a ballerina goes through shoes. Which is why heavy-duty chews that last for a long time are the holy grail of dog ownership. Did I mention that Nylabone's DuraChew fits exactly that description?
This is the biggest step! Play with your dog and their new toy for a few minutes every day.
Anytime your dog is knawing at something he's not supposed to chew, go over and replace that item with the new toy.
You're replacing the behavior you don't want with a behavior you want to encourage. Encourage your dog to spend time with the toy, and when he does, show that you're happy.
A treat shows you are encouraging that behavior.
This natural-looking chew toy is a slam dunk. There's a reason it's a best seller on Chewy.
If your dog absolutely loves sticks but keeps getting little splinters or tracking nasty branches into your house, this Dogwood stick toy recreates the big outdoors while keeping things a bit more manageable for you.
Want to reward them for good behavior? If Fido has been playing well with all his new toys instead of chewing your favorite chair, give him this dog-safe peanut butter. Mmmmmmm.
Its no secret that dogs love peanut butter! This "Kong Stuff'N Easy peanut butter spread is dog friendly. Now you can have peace of mind when you give your animal "human food."
Squirt some of that peanut butter inside a "Kong toy and your dog will spend hours trying to get every last bit out of there.
The "KONG Classic Dog Toy is a classic dog toy for a reason. It's nearly indestructible, and perfect for hiding treats inside!
Is your dog more into "alligators than geckos?
Ultra-plush! Great for cuddling! This "Frisco Flat Plush Squeaking Alligator Dog Toy is stuffing-free and also has a noisemaker for lots of squeaky snuggles and playing.
Want a "
Try this cute but ready-for-tug-of-war monkey stuffed toy. With knotted rope on both ends, your pooch won't destroy this "Frisco Plush with Rope Squeaking Monkey Dog Toy in 24 hours.
Looking for a "healthier treat? Try these dental chews.
Your furry pal will think they're just getting a delicious bone, but you'll know it's actually good for their teeth. A happy dog and fresh breath? The "Starmark Everlasting Dental Chicken Dog Treat is win-win situation, if you ask me!
If your dog is obsessed with things that bounce, "this is the toy for you. This cool geometric toy can be used in two ways.
You can either toss the "JW Pet Hol-ee Roller Dog Toy for a normal game of fetch, or you can use it as a treat maze by filling it with treats. Bingo! Now you have hours of entertainment for your dog.
Time to recap!
Step 1: Don't be discouraged if your dog hasn't liked toys in the past.
Step 2: Get your pet a fresh toy! This will help your dog get acclimated to his new conditions.
Step 3: Play with your dog for a few minutes a day. When your pooch is knawing at something he's not supposed to, go over and replace that item with the new toy.
We hope you enjoyed this roundup! Now, scooch on over to Chewy.com and get your pup a well-deserved treat.