Are Your Dog’s Toys Toxic?
I’ve always disagreed with the description of dogs as man’s best friend because my dogs feel more like an extension of my family, my four-legged children. Both my pups are highly attached to me and my family and we are also just as attached to them. And just as I want the best for my human kids, I also want the best for my canine kids.
That said, I was super disturbed when I found out that many of their dog toys contained toxic chemicals (I’m cringing just thinking about it). As much as I do to keep my dogs healthy, (including feeding them the best dog food we could find, walking them every day, and getting them regularly groomed) this felt like it was undoing all of my hard work.
Toxins Found In Dog Toys & Chews
BPA: This one got me. We buy things that tout being BPA-free for our kids, but I had no idea this was found in dog toys too! Time says BPA can upset your dog’s gut microbiome and metabolism.
PVC: PVC by itself isn’t dangerous, however, manufacturers often add Phthalates to make toys softer and more flexible for dogs. Over time, these chemicals can be absorbed through the skin (like gums) and damage the immune system, liver, and kidneys, as well as cause cancer.
Phthalates: As mentioned above, phthalates are a group of toxic chemicals. They are often added to PVC to make toys more flexible. Phthalates smell like vinyl. It’s a pretty distinct smell. The stronger the smell on the toy, the more toxic it is.
Lead: Lead is a commonly known toxin and can be found in a number of dog toys, including imported tennis balls made specifically for pets, other imported dog toys, and golf balls ( I know golf balls aren’t for dogs, but it’s a ball and your know how they are about balls). Lead poisoning can damage multiple organs including the nervous system and the gastrointestinal tract.
Chromium: Veterinarians actually use this in small doses in insulin supplements for dogs with diabetes. However, in large doses, chromium can be toxic. Some dog toys made in China were tested and found to have elevated levels of Chromium.
Formaldehyde: You’ve probably all heard about this one. Rawhides are often preserved with formaldehyde. An extended exposure can cause digestive or respiratory irritation. According to the American Cancer Society, exposure to formaldehyde can cause cancer.
Arsenic: I don’t think I even need to explain this one. But it can lead to vomiting, loss of consciousness, and even death.
Bromine: Bromine is used as a flame retardant and can be found in furniture foam. That includes dog beds made of foam. It can cause upset stomach, vomiting, constipation, loss of appetite, pancreatitis, muscle spasms, and tremors.
Cadmium: Testing done for ConsumerAffairs found high levels of Cadmium in imported dog toys. Cadmium destroys the kidneys, joints, and lungs.
At this point, I was ready to toss all of their toys and start from scratch.
Non-Toxic Dog Toys
Unfortunately, there are no accepted safety standards for the making of dog toys. There also isn’t an agency or a government or even a non-government organization that regulates dog toys. So how do you find dog toys free of toxins?
Check out the Healthy Stuff Product Search list for pet-related items. Then take a look at Healthy Stuff’s Archived Pet Supply Data list. This list is not extensive, however, it is a good place to start.
The FDA also maintains a searchable list of pet products that have been recalled or withdrawn from the market.
YOU can check for lead yourself with the 3M Instant Lead Test. It can detect the presence of lead on most surfaces in about 30 seconds.
Our Fav
Both of my dogs love balls and will play fetch until your arm falls off. Our new favorite dog toy is Muttmellows. These balls are all-natural, made from wool, and dye-free. Plus side… they don’t squeak, so no headaches when the pups are feeling particularly playful.
Do you have any suggestions for all-natural dog toys? Tell us in the comments below!