How to Get Your Dog to Love Their Toys

You’ve got the best dog ever: they’re great on walks, they’re responsive, and they’re all about those sniff adventures in the yard. But when it comes to toys? Not so much. If you’re working from home or juggling chores, it’s a bummer when your dog doesn’t seem interested in playtime.

Playtime isn’t just fun; it’s super beneficial for your dog. It helps burn off energy, can be a reward for good behavior, and strengthens your bond. Plus, it makes life more exciting for them!

So why might your dog not be into their toys? Simple: toys aren’t crucial for their survival, so they might not see the appeal right away. But don’t worry! With a bit of patience, you can show your dog how awesome toys can be.

Step 1: Introduce Toys Slowly

Start by letting your dog get used to seeing and sniffing a toy. Don’t force it— just let them check it out at their own pace. A lot of dogs enjoy squeaky toys, so they’re a great one to start with. Place toys near their food or favorite resting spots to catch their interest. It might take a few days, but eventually, they’ll start to notice.

Step 2: Reward Their Interest

When your dog shows even a tiny bit of interest in a toy, reward them with praise and yummy treats. You can make toys extra enticing by stuffing them with snacks, spreading peanut butter on them, or sprinkling them with crushed treats. We like to cut up bits of jerky for our furbabies. The goal is to make the toys as rewarding as possible!

Step 3: Playtime Fun!

Once your dog is interested in the toys, it’s time to play! Start slowly by rolling a ball or squeaking a toy and praise them when they engage. Keep play sessions short and fun. If your dog seems bored or distracted, don’t push it— just try again later.

For extra excitement, don’t be afraid to put on a bit of a show and act a little goofy! Wag your butt, squeak the toy, and use an over-enthusiastic tone like you’re talking to a toddler. It may seem a little silly, but I assure you, your dog will absolutely love it. You can also play hide-and-seek with the toys or let your pooch search for them. Ending playtime on a high note will keep them eager for the next session.

Fun Fact: Try using training words and signals every time you initiate playtime, and you’ll see how excited your doggo gets every time they recognize when the fun is about to go down.

For Senior Dogs

Older dogs might lose interest in toys due to decreased energy. Opt for softer, gentler toys, or focus on other activities that they enjoy. One of our favorites at Pampered Pets Bazaar is the big ol’ wild duck toy; great for all sizes and ages of dog.

Final Tips

Variety is key! Don’t let your dog get bored with the same toys. Rotate their toys to keep things fresh and exciting. You can even create a toy basket and sprinkle treats in it to encourage them to explore on their own.

At Pampered Pets Bazaar, we believe that with a bit of creativity and patience, you can make playtime irresistible for your dog. In fact, we believe this so much; it’s one of the reasons our store is stocked to the ceiling with tons of toys, treats, and other great things for pet lovers.

Do you have a story about getting your doggo to love their toys? Share your success with us— we’d love to hear how you’ve turned your pup into a toy enthusiast!

 

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