Wednesday 11 September 2019

Toys for my cheeky chunky Labrador

So 3 years ago now we got a tiny chunky Lab, I knew I wanted a boy and I knew his name was Ralph. To be fair the first one we saw seemed like a Ralph. If you are a dog parents you will understand this.
I always knew Labs were loving, intelligent and great with kids. But what I never knew is that chocolate Labs were the stupidest of the bunch, but with that lack of common sense you get a puppy forever. Ralph does learn things, but has his own mind too, no matter how much I try and train him in certain things he will just do what he wants. Every dog has their own character and Ralph has a huge one.
Another thing I never knew about Labs is that they lose a lot of hair, I always thought a short haired dog would have less hair shedding than a longer dog breed. I was very wrong. The other thing anyone who has had a puppy will know they chew like mad, but it seems most Labs can chew through anything and every toy going. Ralph loves to chew sticks, toys, teddy and any thing he can get his paws on that isn't ours. He did as a puppy like to take slippers, but thankfully he knows what is and isn't allowed these days.


I have over the last 3 years bought many toys for Ralph to enjoy. But not many ever make it past the few weeks or days of damage. But thankfully I have found a few that he hasn't managed to destroy. These are the ones I would highly recommend for anyone who has a dog who loves treat toys that seem to be slightly indestructible.

1. Kong Classic is a basic fill able toy for most breeds, they come in a variation of sizes and strengths. You can freeze them which will give your dog even more hours of fun.


2. Kong Wobbler is a great toy for dry foods, better if you have wooden floors but lots of fun. Ralph loves knocking this about trying to get more food out even when he has emptied it.

3. Feixun Pets Dog Treat Toy Ball is better for small hard treats, Ralph doesn't love this as much as some others, but still wants it of course if it has been filled with his food. It can be hard to fill when it starts to get full up. But worth a try for someone with a dog who can't move about much. 

4. SPORTSPET High Bounce Rubber Dog Balls  these balls come in various sizes, I have only linked one size here which is about the same as a tennis ball, not only are they super bouncy but also seem to be pretty tough. They aren't treat toys, but are hours of fun especially if you have a hard surface to bounce them on. 

5. Starmark Bob-a-Lot Interactive Dog Toy is by far Ralph's favourite treat toy, not only is it a lot like the Kong wobbler, but he loves it because he can carry it around. It has a few different adjustments that make it easier or harder for treats to come out and for different size treats. It also comes in 2 sizes depending on the size of your dog. 



 My own made toys using Kong Squeezz balls  with natural rope tied through, makes it easier for me to get hold of them. Ralph loves them and so do I. 




I can't say that these toys will be tough enough for your dog, but Ralph loves them and hasn't broken one yet.