Sensory toys are a great way to engage blind or deaf dogs in play, which can keep them more relaxed and confident.
Sensory loss can happen in any dog, but blind and deaf dogs still have other highly developed senses, and it’s both possible and important to teach them how to play. In fact, play and toys can help blind and deaf dogs adjust to their new reality, get used to their environments, be more relaxed, and have an overall better quality of life. Let’s look more closely at the benefits of play and some of the best sensory toys for deaf or blind dogs.
Blind and Deaf Dogs Love Playing with Toys
Toys engage your dog’s brain and stimulate different senses, including smell, taste, and touch. All dogs love to play, but here are four reasons specifically it’s important to engage a blind or deaf dog with sensory toys or play:
- The shared activity can strengthen your bond.
- It relieves stress. Blind and deaf dogs can be more anxious, and regular play can help them relax and become more familiar with their environment.
- Activities like nose work can build confidence.
- Engaging in fun activities relieves boredom.
Best Sensory Toys for Blind Dogs
Scented toys: These enable a blind dog to use their sense of smell to play. Scented balls are great for fetch, and scented stuffed animals make it easy for your pet to find the toy and grab it.
Noise-making toys: Blind dogs love playing with toys with sounds that improve their hearing and build their focus. Find toys that buzz or squeak for a few seconds, allowing your pup enough time to find them.
Textured toys: These stimulate your dog’s sense of touch, smell, sound, and taste, so they’re very exciting.
Interactive toys: Things like snuffle mats keep your dog occupied for a long time. Hide some treats in the mat and let your dog find them by sniffing.
Treat dispensing toys: A great way to provide plenty of adventure for your visually impaired dog. In addition to mental stimulation, these toys provide awesome rewards when your dog plays with them.
Top Sensory Toys for Deaf Dogs
Tactile toys: Toys with multiple shapes or textures stimulate the desire to play through pawing or chewing. Their unpredictable shape provides mental stimulation, while the different textures help with dental health.
Puzzle toys: These help hearing-impaired puppies use their other senses to solve the problem in front of them and get rewards for using their brain.
Visually stimulating toys: Things like bright colors or lights are extremely fun for deaf dogs. They help ease anxiety and keep them calmer throughout the day.
Scented toys: Like blind dogs, deaf dogs enjoy snuffle mats and other objects that engage them in nose work.
Plush toys: These can be especially comforting for deaf puppies. Because they can’t hear your soothing voice, plush toys make them feel safe when you’re not around or when they feel anxious.
Final Words
Having a blind or deaf dog has some challenges, but it’s also a rewarding and joyful experience for you and your pup. What’s more, sensory toys can help your dog enjoy playtime as much as any other dog while also helping to reduce stress, build their confidence, and strengthen the bond you share.
The post How to Find Sensory Toys for Blind and Deaf Dogs (And Why You Should) appeared first on Animal Wellness Magazine.
Read More...
