Are there harmful chemicals in dog toys?

Sadly, the answer is yes. There are harmful chemicals in the materials used to make dog toys. This is why we ensure all of the materials used to make our dog toys are GOTS or Oeko-tex certified.

Our old Labradors, Bailey and Piper, were especially fond of what I like to call “the toy parade.” They’d proudly march up and down the room with toys in their mouths, letting out happy growls and showing off their prized possessions to anyone who would watch.

Dogs explore the world with their mouths, and it’s clear that not all the toys and products available to them are properly regulated or tested for harmful chemicals in the materials used.

There's a growing awareness of the environmental and health impacts of the products we choose. One area where this awareness is important is in the selection of dog toys. Using sustainable and non-toxic materials for making dog toys is essential, not just for the health of our pets but also for the well-being of our planet.

Health Benefits for Dogs

Dogs are naturally curious and love to chew, tug, and play with toys. However, many conventional dog toys are made from materials that can be harmful. Plastics, synthetic dyes, and chemical-laden materials can pose serious health risks to dogs. When dogs chew on these toys, they can ingest toxic substances that may lead to a range of health issues, from mild digestive upset to more severe conditions such as organ damage or cancer.

By choosing toys made from sustainable and non-toxic materials, it can significantly reduce the risk of exposing dogs to harmful chemicals. Materials like natural rubber, organic cotton, and hemp are excellent alternatives. These materials are not only safe for dogs to chew on, but they are also more durable and can stand up to rigorous play.

Environmental Impact

The environmental footprint of pet products is often overlooked, but it should be a key consideration. The pet industry contributes significantly to pollution and waste. Most conventional dog toys are made from non-biodegradable materials, which means they can take hundreds of years to decompose, contributing to landfill waste. Many dogs destroy the toy within 5 minutes of having it!

Sustainable dog toys, on the other hand, are made from materials that are either biodegradable or recyclable. For example, toys made from natural rubber or hemp will break down more quickly in the environment compared to plastic toys. By choosing toys made from sustainable materials, pet owners are not only providing their pets with safe products but also making a positive impact on the environment.

While sustainable and non-toxic dog toys might come with a higher initial price tag, they often prove to be more cost-effective in the long run. High-quality, durable materials mean these toys last longer, reducing the need for frequent replacements. Additionally, avoiding vet visits due to health issues arising from toxic toys can save you money, making the initial investment in safer toys worthwhile.

It’s not just about our dogs.
Conventional cotton is one of the most pesticide-heavy crops in the world.
These chemicals harm the workers who grow and process it. That’s why we choose GOTS-certified organic cotton — safe for dogs, safe for people and the surrounding wildlife.

All of our toys are certified toxic and chemical free.