A familiar object can comfort a dog in a new place. It can also be chewed, lost or left behind, so the goal is a toy that comforts without being irreplaceable.
One toy, and not the favorite
UC Davis School of Veterinary Medicine suggests bringing some familiar items, such as toys and blankets, to give a dog a sense of home. The American Animal Hospital Association likewise lists favorite toys or blankets for comfort. At Happy Paws the balance is simple: one toy is welcome, and the favorite should stay home.
The reason is practical. Clause 4 of the boarding agreement lets you bring comfort items but says the kennel is not responsible for items that are damaged, destroyed or lost. Every run already has a Kuranda raised bed and blankets, and the rooms are heated and air-conditioned, so a toy is the only extra most dogs need.
Match the toy to the chewer
AAHA groups dogs into three chewing styles. Passive chewers are gentle and may carry a plush toy around. Moderate chewers rip apart a soft toy but not a hard rubber one. Aggressive chewers tend to destroy toys in minutes and gulp treats whole.
- Passive chewer: a soft plush or a knotted rope is usually fine.
- Moderate chewer: a rubber toy that bends slightly.
- Aggressive chewer: a durable rubber toy one size above the labeled range, as AAHA suggests, or no toy at all.
A quick safety check at home
AAHA gives simple tests. A chew should be bigger than your dog's snout and slightly wider than the mouth. Press a thumbnail into it: if it will not leave a dent, the toy is too hard and can damage teeth. A toy should bend slightly, and your dog should not be able to rip it apart easily. AAHA warns that broken parts or internal stuffing can cause an intestinal blockage, so throw out anything that is damaged.
Pass on bones, antlers, hooves and similar hard chews, which AAHA lists among the items that can fracture teeth. Remove prong or choke collars before check-in, and bring a slow-feeder bowl if your dog uses one.
Better than a toy: something to do
Some dogs value a treat more than a toy. The kennel offers a Happy Lick Mat at $4.99 on the 2026 rates, a Happy Pup Cup at $4.99 and a Happy Pupsicle at $7.99. See Happy Lick Mats and the what to bring page. Mark any belongings with your dog's name.