Every Dachshund needs toys.
Toys and active play with their owners is an integral part of Dachshund life. It serves both the need of exercise and amusement.
But what kind?- Balls
- Ropes
- Bones
- Rings
- Chew toys
- Stuffed toys
The kind of toys to be avoided are those which are easily torn or have small parts that may be chewed off. Dachshunds can take quite a shinning to toys and are often relentless in their play. I've seen one of my Dachsies tear apart an apparently indestructible chew toy in 3 minutes flat.
Aside from the annoyance of losing a few bucks to entertain your dog for 3 minutes, it's more of a concern that they may choke on pieces getting chewed off. My Rummy in fact almost had to have surgery as a result of swallowing a small toy.
Plastic toys are most likely to cause problems of quick destruction. These toys do not have the ability to withstand sharp teeth as hard rubber ones do.
Avoid plastic toys if possible. This also includes plastic bones. These bones, such as Nylabones, are a harder plastic and tends to leave sharp edges which can harm your dogs gums.
Hard rubber toys such as Kong toys have resiliency and will last a long time. Occasionally pieces can be chewed off after extensive effort, but if you chose the right size this will not likely happen. The right size would be just small enough for your dog to chew.
These kinds of products also have an excellent elastic properties which will be good for your dogs jaws and will help keep your Dachsies teeth clean.
As for balls, I recommend Squash balls. I have never found a satisfactory ball, which lasts, at any pet store. The Squash ball, about 2in (5 cm) diameter, is also manufactured out of a hard rubber, is the best thing going. $2 - $3 a piece, you can't lose. As for tennis balls, they may be popular, but Doxies often get obsessed ripping the fuzz off of them. Also because the balls are often outside, they pick up dirt and as you Doxie chews on it, it can wear down their teeth rapidly and unnecessarily!
Stuffed toys or animals are not recommended either. Unless made of heavy canvas or denim these toys will be headed for the scrap heap in no time.
Other toys made from solid packed textile material are much better. This includes large diameter rope or heavy quit material. In either case they do last for a long time and will provide for a good session of tog-of-war with your dog. If you want you can get a couple off feet of soft, large diameter rope at either hardware stores or marine supply outfits for only a couple of bucks. But be sure to tie off the ends. For the quilted material, be sure to keep an eye out for lose threads.
Toys made from cow hide should also be avoided. These toys generally become mushy globs after extended play and may only suitable for outdoors. I have also been told that pieces are often chewed off, swallowed and are hard for your dog to digest.
In general, hard rubber toys last the best and rope type toys are recommended for your Dachsie.