We all love our dogs but the toys they love can get very grubby and very stinky!

Here are some quick tips on keeping your dog’s toys and leads looking as fresh as possible.

Washing

Toys:

You can either hand wash your toys or put them in the washing machine. To avoid damaging the materials, we recommend using a delicate wash at 30°C or lower. You can use a low-speed spin cycle on your washing machine to rinse off any excess water. 

Leads:

We would not recommend putting the leads into a washing machine due to the metal clips. These could damage the inside of the machine so we recommend cleaning them with a hand wash only. 

When handwashing, make sure you use a pet-safe, non-toxic laundry detergent and avoid using any strong chemicals or fabric softeners. After the final rinse, gently squeeze out any excess water of the toy or lead. 

Drying:

Do not tumble dry. The heat can damage the toys. 

Once any excess water has been squeezed out, allow the toy or lead to air dry in a warm, well-ventilated area. Remember to hang the items away from your dog’s reach during drying.

Longevity:

The lifespan of your toys depends on the individual dog. No toy is completely indestructible. We have one dog ourselves who would love a day job as a toy destroyer! 

Toys should never be left unsupervised with your dog. These toys are designed for games between you both. If a ball or toy eventually becomes worn or broken, you should replace it with another toy.

It is a good idea to have multiple toys that you and your dog love to play with together. This is not only handy for when some toys are being washed but it also keeps your dog keen on playing games with you. Nothing like whipping out a different toy to build up that excitement and enthusiasm!