Why You May Want to Skip Toys in Your Dog’s Crate

For many pet parents, a crate is a safe, cozy retreat for their dog; a place to rest, relax, and recharge. But when it comes to keeping your pup entertained in their crate, not all toys are created equal. In fact, certain toys can pose real safety risks when left with an unsupervised dog.

Before you toss a toy into the crate “to keep them busy,” here’s what you should know.

The Hidden Risks of Toys in the Crate

1. Choking Hazards
   Soft plush toys, squeakers, and small chew items can break apart. Even a dedicated chewer can quickly shred a toy, turning it into a dangerous choking hazard.

2. Intestinal Blockages
   If a dog swallows pieces of fabric, stuffing, rubber, or rope, those materials can cause serious digestive blockages; often requiring surgery.

3. Dental Damage
   Hard bones or tough synthetic chews left unattended can lead to fractured teeth if a dog chews too aggressively.

4. Strangulation Risks
   Rope toys and items with long strings or ribbons can tangle around a dog’s neck or limbs.

5. Unsupervised Overexcitement
   Some dogs get amped up when playing, which can lead to stress or anxiety rather than calm rest in the crate.

Safer Alternatives for Crate Enrichment

While it’s best to keep most toys out of the crate when you’re not supervising, that doesn’t mean your dog’s crate time has to be boring. Here are some safer, enrichment-focused ideas:

1. Frozen Stuffed Kongs or Puzzle Feeders
   A food-stuffed Kong (with dog-safe ingredients like peanut butter, pumpkin, or wet food) frozen overnight can keep your pup engaged for a long time and is less likely to splinter or tear apart.

2. Lick Mats (Secured)
   Spread soft food onto a lick mat and freeze it. This encourages calming licking behavior. Make sure it’s a sturdy mat and secure it to the crate so it can’t be chewed into pieces.

3. Safe Chews
   Look for vet-approved, size-appropriate chews made from single-ingredient materials (like certain natural antlers or bully sticks) and consider only giving them when you’re nearby to supervise.

4. Scent Enrichment
   Hide small treats in a snuffle mat or under a secured blanket layer inside the crate for your dog to “hunt” for when they settle in.

5. Rotate Comfort Items
   Instead of toys, provide cozy bedding, a worn T-shirt with your scent, or a calming blanket. Familiar smells can ease anxiety.

Your dog’s crate should be a place of safety and comfort. While enrichment is important, safety comes first—especially when your dog is unsupervised. Skip high-risk toys, opt for crate-safe enrichment options, and save more interactive play for when you can be there to watch.

At Dogs On The Run®, we help pet parents create safe, happy routines, whether we’re walking your pup, visiting for mid-day playtime, or simply sharing tips to make their lives better.

Need help keeping your pup happy, enriched, and safe while you’re away?
The Dogs On The Run® concierge team can connect you with a trusted, accredited professional for mid-day walks, play breaks, and personalized care; so your dog isn’t spending long hours in their crate alone.

📞 Call us today at (619) 535-6387 or visit DogsOnTheRun.com to get started.