How to Pick the Best Toy for My Dog

Table Scraps & Treats: What NOT to Feed Your Pup

We love spoiling our pups with treats—whether they’re giving us the puppy eyes at the dinner table, “vacuuming” the kitchen floor, or simply being the goodest of good boys and girls. But not all snacks are safe for dogs, and some can cause serious harm—even in small amounts.

So before you sneak a bite under the table, keep this list in mind. These foods and drinks are a big no-no for your furry best friend:

🚫 Dangerous Foods for Dogs

• Alliums (cause stomach issues and can damage red blood cells):

  • Onions

  • Garlic

  • Chives

  • Leeks

• Toxic Sweeteners & Treats:

  • Xylitol (often found in sugar-free gum and baked goods)

  • Candy

  • Chocolate

  • Gum

• Dairy Dangers:

  • Milk

  • Ice Cream

• Fruits That Aren’t So Sweet:

  • Grapes

  • Raisins

  • Avocados

• Caffeinated & Boozy Beverages:

  • Coffee

  • Caffeine (even in tea and energy drinks)

  • Alcohol

• Nuts & Miscellaneous:

  • Macadamia nuts (toxic)

  • Other nuts (high in fat, choking hazard)

  • Mushrooms (wild varieties especially)

  • Nutmeg

• Table Scraps That Sound Tasty But Aren’t:

  • Ham (too salty and fatty)

  • Yeast dough (can expand in the stomach)

  • Spicy foods

  • Excess salt

  • Broccoli (in large amounts—it can upset their tummy)

🐾 When in Doubt, Leave It Out

If you're unsure about a certain food, it’s always best to check with your vet. Your pup’s health and safety are worth the extra caution.

Instead, stick to dog-safe treats or try Hairy Barry’s plush toys as a reward—they’re zero calories and 100% tail-wag approved!

Is your dog a zoomie machine who bolts around the house like a bat out of heck? Or maybe your pup is more of a couch potato, living their best nap life with a toy tucked under their chin. Whether you’ve got a wild chewer, a tug-of-war champion, or a gentle snuggler, the right toy makes all the difference.

Here’s how to match your dog’s play style with the perfect Hairy Barry toy:

• For the Energetic Explorer:
  Tug toys and tossables are a dream come true for high-energy dogs who need an outlet for their zoomies. Our durable designs are made to withstand wild games of fetch and tug.

• For the Nap-Loving Nibbler:
  Soft, plush cuddle toys are great for dogs who love to snuggle and chew in between snoozes. These cozy companions are also great comfort items when you're not home.

• For the Rule-Breakers:
  Let’s be real—dogs don’t always play by the rules. Tiny pups sometimes go after giant toys, and big dogs often prefer the smallest squeaker they can find. That’s why Hairy Barry toys are built with safety and versatility in mind.

Safety First!
When choosing a toy, always consider the size of your dog’s mouth. A toy that’s too small can pose a choking risk, while one that’s too large might be no fun at all. If you're unsure, size up and supervise playtime until you know it's the perfect fit.

At the end of the day, you know your dog best—and we’re here to help you find the toy that keeps those tails wagging.