When the sun comes out, most of us enjoy spending more time outside, our dogs are no different.
But while summer brings fun and freedom, it also brings some hidden dangers for our dos. One of the most overlooked risks? Dirty dog toys.
Whether you're using food-filled enrichment toys in the garden or letting your dog play with chews and balls around the house, bacteria and pests thrive in warm weather and your dog’s toys could be the perfect breeding ground.
Why Dirty Toys Are a Summer Health Hazard
During the warmer months, any toy with leftover food inside becomes a magnet for bacteria, mould, and flies. Here's why it’s especially risky in summer:
🦟 Flies Are More Active
Flies can detect food from up to four miles away. Once they land, they may vomit, lay eggs, and transfer nasties!. A toy left in the grass for just a few hours can quickly become home to maggots or harmful bacteria.
🌡️ Warmth Speeds Up Bacterial Growth
Bacteria multiply faster in warm, moist environments. A smear of meat or yoghurt in a toy might not seem like much, but in summer heat it can turn into a health hazard in no time especially if your dog then picks it up again later.
🐜 Pests Love Leftovers
It’s not just flies. Ants, wasps, and even rodents are attracted to leftover food. If toys are left out overnight or hidden indoors under sofas or in corners, they can easily draw in unwanted pests.
How to Keep Your Dog Safe
Clean Enrichment the No Fuss Way
Enrichment is brilliant for your dog’s wellbeing mentally and physically. But hygiene matters.
Here's how to keep it safe and simple:
✅ Clean Toys After Every Use
After each enrichment session, wash toys thoroughly especially those used with wet or raw food. Don’t wait until they smell bad or look dirty.
🧼 Use Warm Soapy Water and good brush
Toys with grooves, holes, and corners can be tricky to clean — that’s why we created the No Fuss Cleaning Brush. It's design & shape gets into every nook and cranny, so no food gets left behind.
☀️ Dry Toys Properly
Let toys air dry completely before storing them. A damp toy can become a mouldy one fast — especially in a warm cupboard or toy box.
🔁 Rotate and Check Regularly
Rotate your dog’s toys to allow proper cleaning and drying time, when you are hand washing toys its the perfect time to check for signs of wear, cracks.
Final Thoughts: Summer Play, Safely Done
Keeping your dog cool, enriched, and safe in the summer doesn't have to be the right toys, treats and tools make all the difference. So next time your dog finishes up with their favourite lick mat or food-filled toy, give it a good wash with the No Fuss Cleaning Brush.
Your dog’s health is worth the few extra minutes it takes to wash toys thoroughly and it means you can both enjoy the sunshine worry-free.
