The Best Dog Puzzle Toys
It can be tough to keep your dog both physically and mentally stimulated. However, dog puzzle toys can help. They keep your dog's mind working as they try to find their treats and get them out. Your pup will quickly tire out, and a tired dog is usually more well-behaved and less destructive.
What to Look For
Picking out puzzle toys for your dog is simple if you focus on their skill level, size, and how easy it is to motivate them. For example, the West Paw Zogoflex Toppl is perfect for pups that want to chew and gnaw constantly. On the other hand, sniffing snouts may prefer the interactive Outward Hound treat puzzle. Either way, no matter your puppy’s preferences, there’s sure to be a fantastic option for you on the list below.
Dr. Catch Dog Puzzle Toys
Beginner friendly
This assortment of puzzle toys from Dr. Catch is ideal for anyone just getting started on puzzle training their pets. They also range from simple to advanced to give your pet room to grow. Each option has sliders and hidden compartments you can pack with treats or your dog’s food. From there, you can teach them to sniff the snacks out and move the toy pieces until they find them.
Pros:
- This toy is easy for dogs to learn, making it perfect for beginners.
- It can help you slow your pet’s eating, which helps them lose weight while preventing bloat.
- Using this toy can help you tire your pup’s mind out. That leads to a better-behaved pet all around.
Cons:
- Some of the puzzle options are too small to fit a full meal for large breed dogs.
West Paw Zogoflex Toppl
Power chewer's choice
The Zogoflex Toppl from West Paw is fantastic for keeping your power chewer in check. You can pack it full of your dog’s kibble, wet food, cheese, nut butter, and other tasty treats and either give it to them warm or freeze it to make it last even longer. It can also wobble and release treats if you add dry pieces. Either way, it keeps them busy and engaged for longer than most toys.
Pros:
- You can use this toy in several ways, making it a versatile choice.
- It holds up very well to power chewers and giant breeds and, in most cases, can last for months without damage.
- This is perfect for helping your dogs stay engaged and busy if you’re working or doing something that makes it tough to watch.
Cons:
- You have to get two pieces if you want to use them as a treat dispenser.
Yoboeew Dog Puzzle
Non-slip sliders
Treat training your pup is much easier when you use this dog puzzle from Yoboeew. It has advanced sliders and compact compartments that hold their favorite snacks, forcing them to move each section if they want to find them. Best of all, once your pooch is finished, you can wash this handy puzzle in the dishwasher. The parts don’t come out, so they stay put through washing and playing.
Pros:
- This toy is advanced and easily keeps your dog’s attention longer than most others.
- It can help you train your dog to search for treats in unconventional ways.
- You can give this toy to dogs of any size or age, making it excellent for multi-pet homes.
Cons:
- Power chewers and puppies can chew off the pieces, so you’ll want to oversee them.
Outward Hound Interactive Dog Puzzles
Genius option
From beginners to advanced pup puzzlers, Outward Hound has you covered. There are simple options that help you start teaching your dog to flip, lift, and slide the pieces. Then you can switch to the intermediate and advanced puzzles as they get better, ensuring their mind stays stimulated and working hard. They encourage positive play and help you slay the boredom monster.
Pros:
- The pieces of each puzzle hold up well to everyday use, allowing you to use them repeatedly.
- You can put wet treats, like nut butter, in the compartments to make your pup work for their reward.
- It’s the ideal choice for intelligent dogs that need a lot of stimulation to prevent chewing and bad behavior.
Cons:
- You must take the pieces as soon as your dog is done, or they could choke on them.
Zmubb Snuffle Mat
Spacious and versatile
Snuffle mats are one of the best boredom busters you can get for your dog, and this one from Zmubb is a fabulous example. A non-slip base, straps, and durable fabric work together to keep it in place and intact, and it’s big enough for tiny toys up to giant breeds. It has several sections you can pack with food and treats to keep your furry friend sniffing, digging, and snuffling.
Pros:
- The different sections help you start easy and make things more advanced as your dog improves, which helps keep your pet interested.
- This mat is machine washable for added convenience.
- You can use this mat for meals to prevent bloat and overeating.
Cons:
- The removable carrots are easy for most dogs to rip if they try.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why should I use a puzzle toy for my dog?
Puzzle toys are ideal for helping you keep your pet’s mind busy and engaged, even if you can’t get them outside and moving due to rain or space issues. An active dog is a happier, healthier, better-behaved pet overall.
How many puzzle toys does my dog need?
While it’s ok to start your pup off with one puzzle toy, it’s essential that, over time, you keep them engaged and continue to challenge them. That’s why we recommend getting new ones once they seem to tire of their current puzzle.
About the Author
Why Trust Us
DogTime is a leading resource for dog owners & pet lovers. Our goal is to give every dog & pet a happy, healthy home by providing the best advice to owners.