Puppies, like all young things, are mischievous and love to play and to have something at which they can chew, tear, shake, and worry. In order to save things which you value from being subjected to this treatment, it is a wise precaution to invest in one or two toys.

The first that I suggest is a solid rubber ball. These can be bought in several sizes at any good pet shop. Some are even chocolate flavoured! These solid balls are made for this purpose, and however much wear and tear they are sub­jected to, they remain solid and safe and can never harm the pup. Any other form of ball, which he can break and tear in pieces, which he will probably swallow, is definitely unsafe.

A solid rubber bone will also probably be appreciated and will be carried about in his mouth, for all dogs love to carry things. A solid rubber ring is also a good idea. The puppy can easily be taught to retrieve the ball, bringing it back to you, and thus, whilst playing and enjoying himself, is learning a lesson in obedience. Teach your puppy to understand the word 'Fetch' when retrieving, or 'Give' when he returns the ball to you.

When he is a little older, one of these toys or a puppy biscuit can for a start be hidden in a place where it can be found easily and the puppy can be taught to 'seek' it. This is again a lesson in obedience and intelligence, and develops the strong sense of scent which all dogs have in finding this hidden object—by using the nose, instead of the eyes.
Naturally when any of these commands has been obeyed, and when the hidden object has been found, the puppy must be praised lavishly, and must be allowed to eat the biscuit which he has sought and found. All commands must consist of one word only-'Fetch', 'Give', 'Seek', are the operative ones at this stage of his development.

Another good and safe toy is made by knotting together lengthwise, several old, soft, clean dusters. The puppy will love to worry and shake this, and it can also be a very useful toy at teething time. To hold one end and let the puppy pull and tug at the other is another way of helping get rid of the 'milk' or puppy teeth.

It will thus be seen that these recommended toys can also constitute elementary training in obedience, Learning without tears, in fact!