The right toy can become part of a dog's daily routine. It might be the one they carry from room to room, bring along on a weekend away or settle down with after a long walk. For dogs who enjoy soft toys, a well-designed companion can offer both entertainment and comfort.

When choosing dog toys, appearance is only part of the decision. Size, construction, texture and your dog's individual play style all matter.

Choosing A Toy That Suits Your Dog

Dogs have different ways of playing. Some enjoy chasing and carrying. Others prefer squeaking, wrestling or curling up with a favourite toy.

Consider how your dog already plays before choosing something new:

• Gentle players often enjoy soft dog toys they can carry and cuddle.

• Interactive players may prefer toys with squeakers or interesting textures.

• Puppies need appropriately sized toys that can withstand enthusiastic exploration.

• Larger dogs generally benefit from toys with substantial size and reinforced construction.

The best toy is one that fits naturally into the way your dog likes to play.

Soft Toys For Cuddling And Everyday Play

For dogs that enjoy carrying their toys around or settling down with them, soft toys have a particular appeal. A quality plush dog toy can become a familiar companion as well as a source of play.

Look for a soft exterior, secure stitching and construction that can cope with normal play. Squeakers can also add interest, particularly for dogs that enjoy interactive play.

Soft toys are not intended to be chew toys. Dogs that are persistent chewers should always be supervised, regardless of how well a toy is made.

Breed-Shaped Dog Toys With Personality

A toy becomes even more special when it has a familiar character. That is the idea behind breed-shaped dog toys from Long Paws.

The Muttley Crew collection features XL plush characters inspired by popular breeds, including the Chocolate Labrador, French Bulldog, German Shepherd, Golden Doodle and Tan Spaniel.

Each design has its own personality while sharing practical features made for everyday play. The toys have reinforced seams, a protective inner layer, soft plush exteriors and five squeakers to keep dogs interested.

They are made to be carried, cuddled and wrestled with - not simply displayed.

Finding The Right Size

Size should always be considered alongside your dog's breed, age and play habits.

When choosing toys for puppies, avoid anything small enough to become a swallowing hazard. Puppies should also be supervised closely, particularly while they are getting used to a new toy.

For larger dogs, choose toys that are substantial enough to carry comfortably and difficult to swallow. Dog toys for larger breeds should also have construction suited to their level of activity.

Smaller dogs can enjoy plush toys too, provided the size and proportions are appropriate. Dog toys for small dogs should be easy for them to pick up and carry without being cumbersome.

When To Replace A Soft Toy

Even a durable toy has a useful life. Regular checks can help you spot damage before it becomes a problem.

Look for:

• Loose or damaged stitching

• Torn fabric

• Exposed filling

• Damaged squeakers

• Detached parts

If your dog has damaged a toy, remove it from play rather than attempting to extend its lifespan. No plush toy should be considered indestructible.

The Muttley Crew Collection

The Muttley Crew collection brings together soft, squeaky companions with a distinctly Long Paws character. The breed-inspired designs make them particularly appealing to Dog Parents who want something more personal than an ordinary stuffed toy.

Choose a favourite breed or pick the character that best matches your dog's personality. Each one is designed for the same simple purpose: giving dogs something enjoyable to carry, play with and cuddle.

Available Muttley Crew Designs

• Chocolate Labrador Shaped Dog Toy, XL

• French Bulldog Shaped Dog Toy, XL

• German Shepherd Shaped Dog Toy, XL

• Golden Doodle Shaped Dog Toy, XL

• Tan Spaniel Shaped Dog Toy, XL

Bundle options are also available for Dog Parents who want to bring home more than one character.

Choosing A Toy Your Dog Will Actually Enjoy

A good-looking toy is easy to choose. A good toy for your dog takes a little more thought.

Consider their size, age and preferred way of playing. If they enjoy soft textures, squeakers and carrying a favourite companion around, the Muttley Crew range offers a combination of character and practical design that fits naturally into everyday life.

The best toy is not necessarily the most elaborate. It is the one your dog keeps coming back to.

Frequently Asked Questions 

Are plush toys suitable for puppies?

Yes, provided the toy is appropriately sized and your puppy is supervised during play. Puppies can be particularly enthusiastic with new toys, so check the toy regularly for signs of damage.

What should I consider when choosing a dog toy?

Consider your dog's size, age, play style and chewing habits. A toy should be easy for your dog to handle and made from materials appropriate for the way they play.

Are breed-shaped dog toys suitable for larger dogs?

They can be, provided the toy is appropriately sized and suited to the dog's play style. The XL Muttley Crew designs are made for dogs that enjoy carrying, cuddling and energetic play.

Are soft toys suitable for dogs that chew?

Soft toys are better suited to gentle or moderate play. They should not be treated as chew toys, particularly for dogs that actively try to tear or consume their toys.

How often should I replace my dog's toys?

There is no set timeframe. Inspect toys regularly and replace them when you notice torn fabric, loose stitching, exposed filling, damaged squeakers or detached parts.