Guide Dog Puppies: Which Toys Must Be Avoided? – Expert Tips from GDA

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Before I opened the Guide Dogs of America puppy manual, I had no idea that certain dog toys were prohibited for guide dog puppies. Over the past five years, the “do not allow” list has become a core part of our training philosophy.

We recently received a new puppy manual—full of updated guidelines that reaffirm the same banned toys. Here’s the definitive list of items that should stay out of a guide dog puppy’s reach.

Dog Toys on the GDA “Do Not Allow” List

If you’re training a guide dog puppy, keep these dog toys out of sight:

1. Tennis balls
2. Frisbees

It’s a simple rule: tennis balls and frisbees can become obsessive distractions that interfere with a puppy’s focus during both training and service work. I’ve seen it firsthand—our family dog Maffy would spend minutes digging through bushes for a misplaced tennis ball, a behavior that could hinder a search‑and‑rescue mission.

In addition to these toys, avoid giving your puppy old socks or shoes. Puppies cannot distinguish between worn and new footwear, so these items can become unsafe or confusing. Plush slippers, for instance, are a common mistake we’ve seen.

Beyond the “do not allow” list, exercise common sense: steer clear of any toy that poses a choking hazard or could be swallowed, potentially causing illness.

Do other guide‑dog programs have additional restrictions? If you’re a puppy raiser with a different group, let us know which toys you avoid. Share your experiences in the comments below.

Related Article:

• What Is the Best Alternative to Tennis Balls for Dogs?

Top Picks for Our Puppies

1. Best Dog Chew
   We love Beef Collagen Sticks—our pups are eager to bite, nip, and chew, and these sticks help redirect that energy.
2. Best Puppy Toy
   Calmeroos Puppy Toy with Heartbeat and Heat Packs—ideal for new puppies, it eases anxiety in a new home.
3. Best Dog Treats
   Crazy Dog Train‑Me Treats—our high‑value treats for guide dog puppies.
4. Best Fresh Dog Food
   The Farmer’s Dog—Raven has been eating this fresh food for a couple of months and loves it. Get 50% off your first order.

Explore more of our favorites on our New Puppy Checklist.