The classic KONG is one of my favorite dog toys. Additionally, I frequently advise my dog training clients to buy this toy. KONGs are not only extremely versatile but also (almost) indestructible.
Discover why I adore KONGs and why your dog needs at least one in the following paragraphs.
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At first glance, there’s nothing too exciting about a KONG. It’s a hollow rubber toy in the form of a snowman. KONGs were originally red, but now they also come in other colors.
The KONG Company also makes black KONGs, which are made of a tougher rubber for dogs that really like to chew, as well as blue and pink KONGs for puppies, which are made of a softer rubber to soothe the gums during teething.
KONGs are available in six sizes, making them a suitable toy for almost all dogs, from small puppies to mature large breed dogs. They are accessible from Amazon as well as from the majority of well-known pet retailers, such as Petsmart and Petco.
(You should be sure to purchase the appropriate size for your dog. For instance, a medium KONG is required for my mother’s 30-pound Brittany spaniel. But Logan the 70-pound lab needed a large or extra-large. Check out this sizing chart if you’re unsure of what size your dog needs. Or, leave a comment, and I can help you out. ).
Play with it. Many dogs find a KONG to be a pretty entertaining plaything because it’s great for fetch and durable enough to be used outside. Due to the toy’s odd shape, it bounces in amusing, unpredictable ways on hard floors, which heightens the entertainment. Logan loves to play by himself with his KONG. He will pick it up and drop it to observe which way the ball bounces. Then, off he goes to catch it.
Chew on it. Many dogs are natural chewers. Puppies especially need plenty of appropriate chew toys. KONGs are excellent chew toys because they are almost indestructible. Make sure to purchase the black KONGS if your dog is a destructive chewer who excels at destroying common toys. They are constructed of a more durable rubber that can hold up against (almost) all dogs.
Stuff it. Because of this, most dogs adore the KONG, which can lead to hours of interaction. Because of its hollow design, a KONG can be filled with dog treats or food. The length of time it takes the dog to try to remove all of the food depends on how much food is inside the KONG and how well it is packed. It’s a fun challenge and a fantastic way to amuse an energetic dog.
Kong toys are excellent for occupying and entertaining your puppy or dog, calming them down, or creating positive associations with situations like g. travelling in the back of the car.
At home, Kong toys are an excellent way for your dog or puppy to “earn” their food and to keep them occupied for a short while without requiring your constant attention.
Others may require a more gentle introduction. Some puppies or dogs will take to the Kong right away and be eager to figure out how to get to the food.
Types of Kong Chew Toy Rubber
Red = Known as KONG Classic, the original red rubber made for the average chewers Baby Blue/Pink = Known as KONG Puppy, a special formula made for teething puppies and help soothe gums Purple = Known as KONG Senior, it is made of a gentle but durable rubber formulated for aging teeth and jaws Black = Known as KONG Extreme, made of the most durable and toughest rubber compound recommended for the strongest chewers Blue = Known as Kong BLUE, a variation of the KONG Extreme usually available only through veterinarians made of radiopaque rubber that will show up in x-rays
Selecting the Right KONG Rubber Strength
You might believe that all small dogs chew lightly and all large dogs chew forcefully, but that is untrue. You must consider the distinctive chewing habits of your dog.
According to Schade, the KONG Classic is almost universally popular with chewers of all sizes.
If your dog has extra powerful chompers—whether they’re a small dog breed or a large dog breed—opt for KONG’s ultra-durable toys. For these destructive chewers, Schade recommends the KONG Extreme, made out of the brand’s strongest rubber. They come in sizes small (for dogs up to 20 pounds) through XX-large (for dogs 85 pounds and up). Like the KONG Classic, this snowman-shaped toy can be stuffed with treats to add extra enticement.
“Dedicated chewers will also enjoy hard rubber toys like KONG Tires and the KONG Extreme Goodie Bone,” Schade adds. “Both are great options for dogs that enjoy playing fast-paced games of fetch or settling down to unpack treats from inside.”
Pet parents looking for softer toys can check out the brand’s plush options, like the KONG CuteSeas aquatic-themed toys and Floppy Knots that are made with internal ropes.
“They’re suited for pups with gentle mouths,” Schade explains. Plush toys are great for cooperative play between pet parents and their dogs, as opposed to unattended chomping. ”.
With their high energy and short attention spans, puppies need a toy that’ll hold their attention long enough to wear them out, Schade says. The KONG Puppy dog toy is an ideal solution. Its rubber is uniquely designed to withstand sharp puppy teeth, soothing the discomfort of and rewarding your pup for chewing an appropriate object (rather than your new shoes).
“Not only will it give them hours of entertainment, catching and fetching the randomly bouncing toy, but the real benefits are in the unique shape and hollow design,” claims Dr. Animal psychologist Roger Mugford is the founder of The Animal Behaviour Center in Surrey, England. Because of its clever design, which enables “food stuffing,” this fantastic toy can be used as a therapeutic “boredom-busting” soother. “.
To really ease those aching gums, Dr. According to Mugford, pet owners can stuff and freeze the toy to provide an edible treat and cooling relief. Choose the appropriate size for your puppy when purchasing the KONG Puppy, which is available in sizes X-small through large.
Another fun toy for puppies, Schade says, is the KONG Puppy Teething Stick, “which is a great way to introduce treat-stuffable toys because it has an easy payout,” she says.
The KONG Senior is a popular option. Like the KONG Classic toys, this is a snowman-shaped, stuffable toy—with the added benefit of being designed especially for senior dogs’ aging teeth and gums. It comes in sizes small, medium and large.
Senior dogs sometimes need extra stimulation to “encourage old bones to get off the couch for some fun,” Schade says. The KONG Stuff-a-Ball, a treat dispensing toy with plenty of space for goodies inside and average chew strength, is appropriate for a wide range of dogs—and it could be just the enticement to play that seniors need, she says.
FAQ
Is it OK for a dog to chew on a Kong?
KONG toys are a great fit for puppies, so the answer is yes. They’re made of non-toxic rubber, offer hours of chewing and treat-finding amusement, and are dishwasher safe, so all you have to do to get rid of the slobber and treat residue is toss them in.
What is the purpose of a Kong for dogs?
A non-toxic, dishwasher-safe rubber toy with a hollow center is called the KONG. It gives dogs a healthy outlet for their innate urge to chew and lick when filled with food. KONGs come in many sizes, from very tiny to extra-large.
How long should a dog chew on a Kong?
For healthy teeth and gums, dogs should chew on a Kong for approximately 10 minutes each day. They will chew for hours if you let them. Once they’ve had their treats, take the toy away to prevent them from chewing excessively.
Do Kongs mentally stimulate dogs?
As your dog moves the KONG Rewards Ball, treats or kibble are distributed at random. The distinctive form has an unpredictable bounce that keeps dogs active while they play and offers beneficial mental stimulation.