When to Throw Away Dog Toys: 5 Signs It's Time
We've all been there — your dog's favorite toy is looking rough, but they still love it. When is a worn toy endearingly vintage, and when does it become a safety hazard? Knowing when to replace dog toys can prevent choking, intestinal blockages, and other dangerous situations.
Here are the five definitive signs it's time to retire a dog toy and replace it with something fresh.
Sign #1: Exposed or Loose Stuffing
This is the most common red flag. When plush toys develop tears that expose the stuffing inside, it's time to replace them immediately. Dogs who ingest stuffing can experience:
- Choking
- Intestinal blockages (which may require emergency surgery)
- Vomiting and diarrhea
- Loss of appetite
Even small amounts of ingested stuffing can cause problems. When you see white fluff poking out, the toy needs to go. Replace it with a fresh option like the Golden Goose, built with PAWTY's GentlePlush 3-layer fabric for enhanced durability.
Sign #2: The Squeaker Is Exposed or Missing
Squeakers are small plastic or rubber devices that pose a serious choking hazard if swallowed. If your dog has chewed through to the squeaker, or if you notice the squeaker is missing from a toy, remove the toy immediately and check your dog for signs of ingestion.
PAWTY toys like the Champagne Bottle Plush Toy feature SuperSqueak technology with securely embedded squeakers, but no toy is indestructible — always monitor for damage.
Sign #3: Small Pieces Are Breaking Off
Whether it's crumbling rubber, fraying rope, peeling paint, or detaching fabric, any toy that's shedding small pieces is a hazard. Small fragments can be:
- Swallowed and cause GI issues
- Inhaled and cause respiratory problems
- Sharp enough to cut gums or the roof of the mouth
Inspect toys regularly, running your fingers over the surface to check for loose or deteriorating material.
Sign #4: Persistent Smell Despite Washing
If a toy still smells bad after thorough cleaning, bacteria and mold have likely penetrated deep into the material. This is especially common with:
- Rope toys that stay damp
- Plush toys used outdoors
- Rubber toys with crevices that trap moisture
A toy that smells despite washing is a breeding ground for harmful microorganisms. Replace it with a fresh option like the Avocado Plush Toy.
Sign #5: The Toy Has Become Too Small
A toy that was appropriate for your puppy may be a choking hazard for your adult dog — or vice versa. As toys wear down and shrink from chewing, they can become small enough to lodge in your dog's throat. If a toy has been chewed down to a size your dog could potentially swallow whole, it's time to replace it.
How to Inspect Dog Toys
Build a quick inspection into your routine:
- Weekly: Give each toy a visual once-over and a gentle squeeze
- Monthly: Do a thorough inspection — check seams, squeakers, and structural integrity
- After heavy play: Check toys that got an especially vigorous workout
- Before and after cleaning: Wet toys reveal damage that dry toys can hide
What to Replace Retired Toys With
When you retire a toy, replace it with something fresh to maintain your dog's toy rotation. Consider upgrading to PAWTY toys with features designed for longevity:
- Fried Chicken Interactive Toy — SnackStash enrichment that keeps dogs engaged
- Steak Plush Toy — GentlePlush 3-layer construction for durability
The Sentimental Factor
It's hard to throw away a toy your dog loves. Here are some strategies:
- Buy duplicates — If your dog bonds with a specific toy, buy a backup before it wears out
- Gradual transition — Introduce the replacement alongside the old toy before removing it
- Photo keepsake — Take a photo of your dog with their beloved toy before retiring it
Final Thoughts
Your dog's safety comes first, even when it means parting with a beloved toy. Regular inspection and timely replacement keep playtime safe and enjoyable. Think of it this way: retiring an old toy means your dog gets the excitement of something brand new!
