The search for engaging and entertaining toys for your dog is over. From
puppyhood to adulthood, toys are fundamental to a pet’s mental,
psychological, and emotional development. The new Toys“R”Us®
PetsTM collection, exclusive to PetSmart®
(NASDAQ: PETM), helps stimulate a pet’s intellectual growth.
Toys"R"Us Pets Tubular Body Animal available only at PetSmart. With a tubular rubber center, this dog toy is great for chewing and fetching. (Photo: Business Wire)
Launching on May 21, the line will be available in the new Toy Chest dog
toy aisle only at PetSmart stores and online at www.PetSmart.com.
PetSmart has worked with Dr. Sophia Yin, veterinarian and applied animal
behaviorist, to provide insights on how toys and play help develop a
happy, healthy pet.
From the beginning, toys play a crucial role, but which toy is right for
your pet? PetSmart has created the new Toy Chest aisle, which groups 100
whimsical Toys“R”Us Pets items and 1,000 other toys, allowing for easy
exploration. Here’s what to look for:
The Early Years
Puppyhood is the most formative stage for health and cognitive growth,
and “it’s important for puppies to have many different experiences
because neurons are forming,” Dr. Yin said. To help a puppy reach his
full potential, engage pets with toys with varied textures, such as:
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Toys“R”Us
Pets Tubular Body Animals: With a tubular rubber
center, this toy is ideal for puppy chewing. “Soft rubber toys are the
best chew surface,” Dr. Yin said.
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Toys“R”Us
Pets Vinyl Tire and Rope Animal: This crunchy squeaky
toy can entertain pets with short attention spans. “Having a toy with
different textures and surfaces will keep your puppy engaged for
longer periods of time,” Dr. Yin said.
Entering Adulthood
Incorporating problem-solving toys is crucial. “Research indicates that
dogs who were given intelligence toys could learn positive reinforcement
faster – like crossword puzzles for adults,” Dr. Yin said. Tug and fetch
games encourage exercise while teaching impulse control.