Find HS Code and trade information for interactive dog toys

Interactive Dog Toys

Interactive dog toys are designed to engage a dog’s mind and body, providing stimulation and preventing boredom. Unlike passive toys, these require a dog to do something to receive a reward, typically food or play.

Materials

A wide range of materials are used in interactive dog toys, each with varying degrees of durability and suitability:

• Plastic: Commonly used for puzzle toys and treat-dispensing mechanisms. ABS plastic is favored for its strength and non-toxicity.
• Rubber: Often used for chewable toys, especially those designed to hold treats. Natural rubber is a popular, durable option. Thermoplastic rubber (TPR) is another common choice.
• Nylon: Frequently used in durable chew toys and puzzle components. High-density nylon is exceptionally strong.
• Fabric: Used in plush puzzle toys, hide-and-seek toys, and toys involving tugging or pulling. Polyester is a common choice for its durability.
• Wood: Some puzzle toys incorporate wood, often treated to be safe for chewing and non-splintering.
• Metal: Stainless steel is sometimes used for internal mechanisms or reinforcement.

Purpose & Function

The primary purposes of interactive dog toys are:

• Mental Stimulation: Challenge a dog's problem-solving skills, reducing boredom and destructive behaviors.
• Slow Feeding: Dispense food slowly, aiding digestion and preventing bloat.
• Exercise: Encourage physical activity through chasing, retrieving, or manipulating the toy.
• Anxiety Reduction: Provide a distraction and outlet for energy, potentially reducing anxiety.
• Bonding: Can be used in play sessions to strengthen the bond between dog and owner.

Usage Scenarios

• Home Alone: Provide entertainment while the owner is away.
• Training: Used as rewards during training sessions.
• Mealtime: Turn mealtime into a stimulating activity.
• Playtime: Engage the dog in active play with the owner.
• Behavioral Enrichment: Address boredom, anxiety, and destructive behaviors.

Common Types

• Puzzle Toys: Require the dog to solve a problem (sliding pieces, rotating parts, lifting lids) to access a treat. Vary in difficulty.
• Treat-Dispensing Toys: Release treats as the dog rolls, pushes, or manipulates the toy. Kongs are a classic example.
• Hide-and-Seek Toys: Involve hiding toys or treats within a larger structure or fabric.
• Automatic Ball Launchers: Launch balls for the dog to retrieve, providing exercise.
• Interactive Plush Toys: Often include squeakers, crinkling sounds, or hidden compartments.
• Snuffle Mats: Mats with fabric strips where treats are hidden, encouraging foraging behavior.
• Lick Mats: Textured mats where soft foods (like peanut butter or yogurt) can be spread, providing a calming activity.
• Flirt Poles: A long pole with a lure attached, encouraging chasing and pouncing.

Interactive dog toys fall under the classification of toys, specifically those categorized with tricycles, scooters, pedal cars and similar wheeled toys; dolls’ carriages; dolls, other toys; reduced-scale (“scaleˮ) models and similar recreational models, working or not; puzzles of all kinds; parts and accessories thereof. The following HS codes are applicable based on the provided information:

• 9503000090: This HS code covers a broad range of toys including tricycles, scooters, pedal cars, dolls’ carriages, dolls, and other toys. It encompasses recreational models, whether working or not, and puzzles of all kinds, along with their parts and accessories. The basic duty rate is 0.0%, the additional duty rate is 0.0%, and a 30.0% additional duty will be applied after April 2, 2025. The total tax rate is 30.0%.
• 9503000071: This HS code specifically addresses “Children’s productsˮ as defined in 15 U.S.C. § 2052, labeled or determined by the importer as intended for use by persons under 3 years of age. Like 9503000090, the basic duty rate is 0.0%, the additional duty rate is 0.0%, and a 30.0% additional duty will be applied after April 2, 2025, resulting in a total tax rate of 30.0%.

Important Note: If the interactive dog toys are specifically marketed for children under 3 years of age, HS code 9503000071 is the more appropriate choice. Otherwise, HS code 9503000090 should be used.