Toys that hold up

A pile of toys in a basket stops being interesting fast. The trick is not buying more — it is rotation.

Rotate weekly

Keep two thirds of the toys put away and swap them each week. Returning toys feel new, and you buy less.

Cover the three jobs

Chew toys for jaw work, fetch toys for movement, puzzles for problem solving. Energy needs somewhere to go, and different toys drain different kinds of it.

Match the toy to the chewer

A plush that lasts months with one dog lasts an afternoon with another. Be honest about how hard your pet chews and size up if needed.

Inspect before every session

Check seams, knots and squeakers. Retire anything cracked, coming apart or small enough to swallow. A worn toy is the one that causes trouble.

Supervise

No toy is indestructible. Supervise play, especially with anything new.