Dogs love to play, especially puppies. Although they can entertain themselves with anything, the truth is that toys specifically designed for them are the best option. They are resistant, safe, stimulate them physically and intellectually and prevent them from destroying our belongings.
Balls, stuffed animals, wrestling ropes, olfactory blankets… The catalog of toys for dogs is the most extensive and complete. And, let’s face it, as much as a couple of toys are enough to keep them satisfied, we pamper them and pamper them by buying them details very often.
Thus, it is common to have an abundant collection of dog toys scattered throughout the house. Unless you have trained your furry friend to keep them in the same corner. Be that as it may, these toys accumulate dirt and it is imperative to wash them from time to time.
Your dog plays with his toys using his mouth as well as his paws. These two areas of his mouth are prone to the accumulation of germs, bacteria, and dirt. Even if you brush his teeth regularly and wipe his pads with a disinfectant after your ride.
Also, they are always rolling on the floor or getting stuck under the sofa. Therefore, toys become a magnet for drool, bacteria, germs, microorganisms and even mold and fungi, as well as mites in the case of stuffed animals. They also accumulate fluff, dust, food debris or even mud if we play with them in the street.
If you don’t want your dog to risk getting sick from his own toys, you should wash them at least once a month. Although it is best to do it every two weeks. Especially if he uses them a lot outside the home or shares them with other dogs, to prevent them from spreading diseases.
When in doubt, it is best to consult the labels and washing instructions for each toy, where their specifications will be stated. In any case, as a general rule, fabric toys such as blankets, stuffed animals and ropes can be washed in the washing machine.
If they are small pieces, it is better to put them in a special mesh bag for the washing machine. Choose a detergent with a mild scent and refrain from using fabric softener or bleach. Use a short wash with cold water and no spin. Afterwards, air dry the toys, as the washing machine could shrink, deform or damage them.
In the case of rubber, plastic or silicone toys, it is convenient to wipe them with a damp cloth after each use. Also, when it is time to wash them, it is best to do it by hand with warm water, a soft sponge and the product that you usually use to wash the dishes.
Avoid using too hard scourers that damage the materials. Be sure to rub well between the small grooves of the toys, as well as rinse them completely so that there are no traces of soap that could make the dog sick.
