As a company that produces 3D printable dog toys, one of the most common questions we receive from our customers is whether or not our products are safe for their furry friends.
We take the safety of our customers' pets seriously, and we believe that 3D printed toys made from PLA, also known as Polylactic Acid, can be a safe option for dogs. Most importantly, scientists have determined that PLA is Generally Recognized as Safe when used in contact with food. Unlike many toys made from synthetic materials, PLA is made from renewable resources, such as cornstarch and sugarcane, and is biodegradable.
While PLA may be biodegradable and non-toxic, it's important to note that it's not indestructible. PLA is a relatively brittle material that can crack or break under stress, especially when exposed to high temperatures or UV light. This can be a concern when it comes to dog toys, which are often subject to rough play and chewing. We strongly encourage our customers to supervise their dogs while they play with our toys to ensure their safety. None of our 3D printed toys are intended to be chew toys, rather they are intended for light play, such as rolling or knocking it around. If they want to sit there and chew, grab them a bully stick or other natural chew!
There are many different materials that can be 3D printed so it's also worth noting that not all 3D printing materials are created equal. While PLA may be a safe and popular option, other materials, such as ABS (acrylonitrile butadiene styrene), may be more hazardous to dogs. ABS can release toxic fumes when heated, and is known for its high toxicity and potential to cause harm when ingested. As such, we do not use ABS or other potentially hazardous materials in our 3D printed dog toys, nor do we recommend that our customers who have purchased digital files use these materials.
In conclusion, we believe that 3D printed dog toys made from PLA can be a safe and enjoyable option for dogs when designed and produced with safety in mind. By considering factors such as size, durability, smoothness, non-toxicity, visibility, and functionality, we are able to produce toys that are not only safe, but also fun and engaging for dogs.