West Highland White Terrier Club of America

Toys Are Fun For Westies

Contributed By: Sandra J. Crawford
W.H.W.T.C.A. Health Committee

1. Toys are meant for you and your Westie to enjoy together.
2. Dog toys should be chosen and purchased with the same forethought as children's toys.
3. Toys should be appropriate for your Westie's, age, size, strength, chewing habits and temperament.
4. If toys become worn or damaged, it is a good idea to discard and replace them. Examine toys containing noisemakers like squeakers and growlers often.
5. Varying toys is more important than supplying a large number of them.
6. Rotating toys by color, texture, shape and flavor will keep your Westie's curiosity and interest alive.
7. Supervise your Westie while playing with rawhide toys. As rawhide toys become fragmented or worn, replace them before pieces can be swallowed.
8. A varied selection of hard rubber or latex toys will keep your Westie interested in play. Regular chewing is essential for maintaining the health of your Westie's teeth, jaws and gums.
9. Westies enjoy action toys. Avoid toys with small parts that could be swallowed.
10. Avoid toys made of soft vinyl or brittle plastic. Many Westies enjoy a sturdy, well made fabric toy to snuggle.