Dazzling Toys Recalls Chicken Toys Due to Choking Hazard (Recall Alert)

What was recalled

In late August 2016, the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) announced a voluntary recall involving specific battery-powered toys manufactured by Dazzling Toys. This action was taken to address safety concerns regarding a popular line of interactive playthings known as the "Bump and Go Action Egg Laying Chickens." These toys were designed to entertain young children with a combination of lights, music, and mechanical movement, but they contained components that posed significant risks if they broke apart or detached. The recall specifically targets these chicken-themed toys that feature a "bump and go" action mechanism, which allows the toy to move around a room until it hits an obstacle, at which point it reverses direction.

The recalled products were sold in two distinct visual styles, both of which contained the same internal components and hazards. The first style featured a yellow chicken body with an orange head and wings. The second style was multi-colored, incorporating yellow, green, and orange hues across its plastic shell. Both versions functioned identically: they included three small, white plastic eggs that were placed into the back of the chicken toy. As the toy moved, these eggs would be released from the bottom, simulating a hen laying eggs. This interactive feature was central to the toy's appeal but also contributed to the identified safety issues.

The physical dimensions of the toys varied slightly between the two styles. The yellow-colored chicken measured approximately 7 inches wide by 6 inches tall by 7 inches deep. The multi-colored version was slightly more compact, measuring 7 inches wide by 5 inches tall by 4 inches deep. Regardless of the exterior color scheme, each toy came with three white plastic eggs that were one inch wide by one inch tall by one inch deep. These small dimensions are critical to understanding the scope of the recall, as the size of the eggs and potential broken plastic pieces falls well within the range of items that can be swallowed or inhaled by young children.

While the provided recall records do not specify the exact retail locations or the total number of units sold, they confirm that these battery-operated toys were distributed widely enough to warrant federal attention. The recall was initiated on August 30, 2016, after Dazzling Toys determined that the chicken shells could break into small plastic pieces and that the eggs themselves presented a choking hazard. Consumers who purchased these items during the relevant sales period should carefully inspect their toys to determine if they match the described characteristics. If you have a battery-powered toy chicken with lights and music that releases eggs from its bottom, it is essential to verify whether it falls under this specific recall by contacting the manufacturer directly.

The hazard, explained

At the heart of this recall is a seemingly simple mechanical interaction that becomes dangerous under normal play conditions. The recalled Dazzling Toys "Bump and Go Action Egg Laying Chicken" is designed to entertain by moving around and releasing small plastic eggs from its underside. While the toy functions as intended during operation, two distinct physical components create a serious choking risk for young children.

First, the toy includes three white plastic eggs that are placed into the back of the chicken before use. These eggs measure one inch wide by one inch tall by one inch deep. For many adults, an object of this size may seem harmless. However, for toddlers and infants who explore the world by putting things in their mouths, a one-inch object is large enough to fit completely into the airway. When a small child swallows or inhales such an object, it can become lodged in the trachea (windpipe), blocking the flow of air. This obstruction prevents oxygen from reaching the lungs, leading to suffocation within minutes if not immediately addressed.

The second part of the hazard stems from the structural integrity of the toy itself. The chicken is made of plastic and operates using a bump-and-go mechanism powered by batteries. As the toy moves around, bumps into furniture, or is handled roughly by excited children, the plastic shell can crack or break apart. If the body of the chicken breaks, it can shatter into smaller plastic fragments. These pieces may be even smaller than the eggs themselves, making them particularly difficult for a child to see or spit out. Like the eggs, these broken plastic shards pose a significant choking hazard because they are rigid, non-digestible, and small enough to block an infant’s airway.

It is important to understand that choking hazards are not just about the size of the object but also about its shape and texture. The smooth, hard surface of the plastic eggs allows them to slide easily into the mouth and deeper into the throat. Similarly, sharp or irregular edges on broken plastic pieces can cause additional injury beyond suffocation, potentially damaging soft tissues in the mouth or throat. Because young children lack the coordination to cough up such objects effectively, even a brief exposure to these hazards can result in life-threatening emergencies.

This type of hazard is common in many battery-operated toys that combine moving parts with small accessories. Manufacturers often overlook how easily plastic components can degrade over time or during active play. In this case, the combination of detachable small eggs and a fragile body creates a dual threat: one from the intended accessory and another from the potential failure of the toy itself. Recognizing this mechanism helps explain why CPSC issued this recall despite no reported incidents yet — prevention is critical when dealing with choking risks.

Who is most at risk

The primary group at risk for this recall consists of young children, particularly those under the age of three. This specific hazard profile is critical because the recalled Dazzling Toys Bump and Go Action Egg Laying Chickens are designed to release small plastic eggs as part of their play function. For toddlers and infants, whose natural tendency is to explore the world by putting objects in their mouths, these one-inch-wide plastic eggs present a severe and immediate danger. The Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) identifies choking as the central threat here, and young children are disproportionately vulnerable because their airways are significantly smaller than those of older children or adults. A small object that might be harmless to an older child can completely obstruct the breathing passage of a toddler, leading to suffocation within minutes if not addressed instantly.

The risk is compounded by the structural integrity of the toy itself. The recall notice highlights that the chicken figure can break into small plastic pieces during normal use or play. This means that beyond the intended "eggs," the body of the toy can become a source of additional choking hazards. Young children often engage in rough play, such as throwing, squeezing, or dropping these battery-powered toys. When the plastic shell fractures, it creates irregular shards or fragments that are difficult to detect and even more dangerous to swallow than smooth, round objects. Children under five years old lack the developed chewing reflexes and dental strength to break down hard plastic, meaning they are likely to attempt to swallow these pieces whole.

While the primary focus is on young children, any individual with swallowing difficulties or reduced gag reflexes could also be at risk if they handle the broken components. However, given that this product is marketed as a toy for children, the vast majority of exposure will occur in households with toddlers who are still developing motor skills and judgment. Parents and caregivers should recognize that the "bump and go" action may encourage active chasing and handling by small hands, increasing the likelihood of the toy being dropped, broken, or placed directly into a child's mouth. The combination of small detachable parts (the eggs) and the potential for the main body to shatter creates a dual-layered risk environment that is particularly perilous for the youngest members of a household.

It is also important to note that older siblings in the same home may inadvertently expose younger children to these hazards. An older child might play with the toy and then leave it within reach, or they might break it while playing, leaving small fragments accessible to a crawling infant. Therefore, the risk extends beyond just the direct user of the toy to include all young children in the household who might encounter the product after it has been used by an older sibling.

How to tell if you have the recalled item

What to do — step by step

If you have one of the recalled Dazzling Toys Bump and Go Action Egg Laying Chickens, your immediate priority is to ensure that the toy is no longer accessible to children. The Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) has identified a serious choking hazard because the small plastic eggs can be swallowed, and the chicken itself may break into smaller pieces over time. Therefore, the very first step you must take is to immediately stop using the recalled toys. Do not allow any child to play with them, even under supervision, as the risk of injury remains present regardless of how carefully they are handled. Put the toy away in a secure location where it cannot be retrieved by curious hands.

Once the toy is safely out of reach, your next step is to initiate the remedy process provided by the manufacturer. Dazzling Toys has committed to providing a full refund for these items. You should contact the firm directly to arrange this return. The company is also actively contacting consumers who purchased the recalled toys, so keep an eye out for their outreach. However, you do not need to wait for them to reach out; taking proactive steps ensures your process moves forward without delay.

To proceed with the refund, you have three convenient options for contacting Dazzling Toys. You may call their toll-free number at 844-222-2812. This line is staffed between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, Eastern Time. If you prefer written communication or need to send documentation, you can email them directly at recall.dazzlingtoys@gmail.com. Alternatively, you may visit the Dazzling Toys homepage at www.dazzlingtoys.com for more information on how to complete the return process. When you make contact, be prepared to provide details about your purchase to verify your eligibility for the refund.

It is important to understand why these steps are necessary. The recall date was August 30, 2016, and while no incidents have been reported so far, the potential for harm exists due to the size of the eggs (one inch wide by one inch tall by one inch deep) and the durability issues of the plastic chicken body. By stopping use immediately and securing a refund, you eliminate the risk entirely and receive compensation for the defective product. Please do not attempt to repair the toy yourself or give it to someone else, as the hazard is inherent to the design and materials used in this specific batch.

Your refund, repair, or replacement options

If you have one of the recalled Dazzling Toys Bump and Go Action Egg Laying Chickens, the path forward is straightforward and designed to put your mind at ease. The manufacturer has not offered a repair kit or a replacement unit that fixes the underlying safety issue. Instead, the remedy provided by Dazzling Toys is a full refund. This approach makes sense because the hazard involves small plastic eggs and parts of the chicken itself that can break off. These pieces are too small to be safely reassembled or modified at home without risking further separation. A simple software update or a minor hardware tweak cannot resolve the structural integrity problem or the size of the detachable components relative to a child’s airway. Therefore, removing the product from your home entirely is the only safe and effective solution.

To initiate this process, you do not need to go through a third-party retailer or wait for a complex mail-in procedure. Dazzling Toys is handling the logistics directly to ensure customers are compensated promptly. The company is actively contacting consumers who purchased the recalled toys, which means you may receive communication from them soon if your purchase information was captured in their system. However, if you have not heard from them, or if you simply want to take proactive control of the situation, you can reach out to them directly using the contact methods they have established for this recall.

You can get in touch with Dazzling Toys through three convenient channels. First, you may call their toll-free number at 844-222-2812. It is important to note that this line is staffed between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, Eastern Time. Calling during these hours ensures you speak with a representative who can process your refund request immediately. If you prefer written communication or need to provide additional details about your purchase, such as a receipt number or the specific style of the chicken (the yellow one with an orange head/wings or the multi-colored version), you can send an email to recall.dazzlingtoys@gmail.com. Alternatively, you can visit their homepage at www.dazzlingtoys.com for more information and potentially find direct links to their support team.

When you contact them, be prepared to confirm that you own one of the affected models. The recall covers the battery-powered plastic toys that feature lights, music, and bump-and-go action. Whether you have the yellow chicken measuring 7 inches wide by 6 inches tall by 7 inches deep, or the multi-colored variant that is 7 inches wide by 5 inches tall by 4 inches deep, both are included in this remedy. The inclusion of the three white plastic eggs, which are one inch in size, is what triggers the choking hazard classification. By contacting the company and providing your purchase details, you will be guided through the steps to receive your money back. This financial reimbursement is your compensation for removing a potentially dangerous item from your home, allowing you to replace it with a safer alternative that does not pose a risk to children.

What can happen if you ignore it

When a recall notice lands in your inbox or on your doorstep, it is natural to feel a mix of inconvenience and frustration. You might think, "It’s just a toy," or "My child is careful, so it won’t happen." However, ignoring the recall for the Dazzling Toys Chicken toys is not merely about missing out on a refund; it is about leaving an active safety risk within your home. The core issue here is not just that the toy is defective, but that its failure mode presents a direct and immediate threat to young children. By continuing to use these items, you are essentially allowing a known hazard to remain accessible to those who are most vulnerable to it.

The specific danger lies in the construction of the toy itself. The Bump and Go Action Egg Laying Chickens are designed to release small, one-inch plastic eggs as part of their play function. While these eggs may seem like harmless accessories when new, they are small enough to be a serious choking hazard for children under three years old. Furthermore, the recall highlights that the chicken body itself can break apart into smaller plastic pieces during normal use or due to wear and tear. If you continue to let your child play with this toy, you are risking exposure to two distinct types of foreign objects: the loose eggs and fragments of the broken toy. Both sizes fall well within the range of objects that can obstruct a young child’s airway.

The consequences of such an incident can be severe and rapid. Choking is a leading cause of injury-related death in children under four years old. When a small object blocks the windpipe, it prevents oxygen from reaching the lungs. This can lead to unconsciousness in just minutes, causing permanent brain damage or death if not treated immediately. Even if the child survives the initial event, there may be lasting respiratory issues or trauma from emergency interventions. It is crucial to understand that these toys do not come with age grading warnings that exclude toddlers; they are designed for play, which makes them particularly appealing to the very age group most at risk of putting things in their mouths.

Additionally, consider the psychological and physical toll on your family should an accident occur. The stress of a medical emergency, the potential for long-term health complications, and the emotional distress of realizing a preventable hazard was left unchecked are heavy burdens to carry. While the CPSC reports no incidents for this specific recall batch so far, that statistic does not guarantee safety; it simply means no one has reported a problem yet. Relying on luck is never a valid safety strategy. By acting now, you eliminate the possibility of these tragic outcomes entirely, ensuring that your home remains a safe environment for your children to grow and play.

Staying safe: broader tips

While specific product recalls are essential for removing defective items from the market, long-term safety in the home relies on proactive habits and a deep understanding of how children interact with their environment. The incident described above highlights a common category of risk: small parts in battery-operated toys. To prevent similar hazards in the future, it is helpful to look beyond individual products and adopt broader safety strategies that address the root causes of household accidents.

First, always prioritize age-appropriate labeling. Manufacturers test their toys for specific age groups based on rigorous choking hazard simulations. If a toy carries a warning label stating "Not for children under 3 years" or "Choking Hazard – Small Parts," these are not mere suggestions; they are critical safety boundaries derived from developmental milestones. Young children naturally explore the world by putting objects in their mouths because their oral sensory system is still developing. Respecting these labels ensures that the items you provide match your child’s physical ability to safely manipulate them without risking airway obstruction.

Second, regular inspection of existing toys is a vital, often overlooked layer of defense. Even high-quality, non-recalled items can become hazardous over time due to wear and tear. Plastic components may crack, batteries may corrode and leak, and small detachable parts like eyes or wheels can loosen with vigorous play. Establish a routine where you periodically check toys for structural integrity. If a toy begins to break apart easily or if small pieces are missing, remove it from the child’s reach immediately. This proactive maintenance prevents minor damage from escalating into a serious choking or ingestion hazard.

Finally, stay informed through official government channels. Safety standards evolve, and new risks emerge as product designs change. Subscribing to alerts from the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) or checking their website regularly can provide early warnings about emerging hazards before they become widespread. Additionally, consider using third-party safety apps that push notifications for recalls relevant to your household’s inventory. By combining vigilant inspection with official information sources, you create a robust safety net that protects your family even when specific defects go unnoticed until it is too late.

• Check the "Choking Tube": If a small part fits entirely inside a toilet paper roll, it is a choking hazard for children under three.
• Secure Batteries: Ensure battery compartments are screwed shut tightly to prevent access to button batteries, which pose severe internal burning risks if swallowed.
• Monitor Play Zones: Keep floors clear of broken toy fragments and regularly sweep play areas for small debris that may have fallen from toys during use.

Ultimately, safety is an active practice rather than a passive state. By educating yourself on general hazard principles and maintaining a vigilant approach to the items in your home, you significantly reduce the likelihood of accidents. Remember that while recalls address specific failures, your daily attention to detail and adherence to age guidelines are your most powerful tools in keeping children safe.