Dogs are intelligent creatures that need mental stimulation to stay healthy and happy. Puzzle toys are a great way to challenge their minds and keep them entertained for hours. Puzzle toys for dogs come in different shapes, sizes, and materials, and they all have one thing in common: they require your dog to think and solve a problem to get a reward.
When looking for the best puzzle toys for dogs, the most important thing to consider is the difficulty level. You want to choose a puzzle toy that is challenging enough to keep your dog engaged but not too difficult that they get frustrated and give up. The size and material of the puzzle toy are also important factors to consider. You want to make sure the toy is safe for your dog to play with and won’t break easily.
After researching and testing various puzzle toys for dogs, we have identified the best ones on the market. Our top picks include puzzle toys that are interactive, durable, and challenging. These puzzle toys will keep your dog entertained and mentally stimulated, while also providing a fun bonding experience for you and your furry friend.
Best Puzzle Toys for Dogs
As dog owners, we know how important it is to keep our furry friends mentally stimulated. Puzzle toys are a great way to challenge your dog’s mind and prevent boredom. With so many options on the market, it can be overwhelming to choose the best puzzle toys for your pup. That’s why we’ve compiled a list of the top puzzle toys for dogs based on customer reviews, durability, and level of difficulty. Whether your dog is a beginner or an expert, we’ve got you covered.
1. Outward Hound Nina Ottosson Dog Brick Interactive Treat Puzzle Dog Toy, Intermediate Level 2 (Intermediate) Dog Brick
If you want to keep your furry friend entertained for hours and encourage positive play habits, the Outward Hound Nina Ottosson Dog Brick Interactive Treat Puzzle Dog Toy is a great choice.
Pros
- This puzzle toy is an excellent boredom buster that will keep your dog mentally stimulated and focused as they search for hidden treats.
- With three types of treat hiding compartments, including flip lids, sliding compartments, and removable brick bones, this puzzle is perfect for testing your dog’s skills.
- The toy is made from tough, removable plastic parts and food-safe materials that are BPA, PVC, and phthalate-free, making it safe for your furry friend to use.
Cons
- Some dogs may find the puzzle too challenging and may need some help to get started.
- The toy may not be suitable for aggressive chewers as it is not indestructible.
- Cleaning the puzzle can be a bit tricky, and it may take some time to get into all the nooks and crannies.
We recently tried the Outward Hound Nina Ottosson Dog Brick Interactive Treat Puzzle Dog Toy, and we were impressed with how much our dog enjoyed it. The puzzle toy is an excellent way to keep your dog entertained and mentally stimulated, and it’s perfect for reducing anxious behavior and redirecting destructive behavior.
The toy comes with three types of treat hiding compartments, including flip lids, sliding compartments, and removable brick bones, which will keep your dog focused and mentally stimulated as they search and sniff out the tasty treats. We found that the puzzle was ideal for pups who have already mastered level 1 of the Nina Ottosson puzzle line and are ready to take it up a notch!
The toy is made from tough, removable plastic parts and food-safe materials that are BPA, PVC, and phthalate-free, making it safe for your furry friend to use. However, some dogs may find the puzzle too challenging and may need some help to get started. Additionally, the toy may not be suitable for aggressive chewers as it is not indestructible.
Cleaning the puzzle can be a bit tricky, and it may take some time to get into all the nooks and crannies. However, overall, we would highly recommend the Outward Hound Nina Ottosson Dog Brick Interactive Treat Puzzle Dog Toy to anyone looking for a fun and rewarding puzzle that will keep their furry friend entertained for hours.
2. DR CATCH Dog Food Puzzle Feeder Toys
If you’re looking for a fun and interactive puzzle toy for your furry friend, DR CATCH Dog Food Puzzle Feeder Toys is a great option to consider.
Pros
- This toy is suitable for cats, puppies, and small dogs, making it a versatile option for pet owners.
- The interactive design of the toy encourages pets to use their brains and senses to find their food, which can help improve their cognitive abilities.
- The slow feeder feature of the toy can help slow down your pet’s eating pace, which can aid in digestion and prevent choking.
Cons
- Some kibbles may be too small and slide between the gap where the doors are meant to slide through, making them inaccessible to pets.
- The toy may be too easy for some pets to figure out, which can decrease its novelty and entertainment value over time.
- The rubber feet of the toy may be easily removed or dropped, which can be a potential choking hazard for pets.
We’ve used this toy with our own pets and found that it’s a great way to keep them entertained and mentally stimulated. The sliding parts of the toy make it easy for pets to find their food, and the slow feeder feature helps them eat at a more reasonable pace. However, we noticed that some kibbles may be too small and slide between the gap where the doors are meant to slide through, making them impossible for pets to access. Additionally, some pets may figure out the toy too quickly, which can decrease its novelty and entertainment value over time.
Overall, we recommend DR CATCH Dog Food Puzzle Feeder Toys for pet owners looking for a fun and interactive puzzle toy for their furry friends.
3. PETSTA Dog Puzzle Toys
If you’re looking for an interactive and mentally stimulating toy for your dog, the PETSTA Dog Puzzle Toys are a great option. With three different difficulty designs and a 16-hole treat dispenser, this toy can provide slow feeding time for your dog for up to 20 minutes.
Pros
- The unique squeak button in the middle makes it easier to attract the attention of dogs and cats.
- Combining circular orbit sliding game and linear orbit sliding game, this toy is designed to engage your dog’s sense of smell and paw skills.
- The PETSTA Dog Puzzle Toys are made of non-toxic materials, very durable, and suitable for pets to play for a long time.
Cons
- Use with caution if your dog is an aggressive chewer.
- While the toy is easy to clean with warm water and soap between uses, it may take some time to clean all of the small crevices.
- Some dogs may figure out the puzzle quickly and lose interest after a few uses.
We recently purchased the PETSTA Dog Puzzle Toys for our two dogs, and they have been enjoying it. Our younger dog was able to figure out the puzzle relatively quickly, but our older dog needed a bit more time to figure it out. We appreciate that the toy is made of non-toxic materials and is easy to clean.
The PETSTA Dog Puzzle Toys are a great gift option for any pet owner looking to provide their dog with interactive and mentally stimulating toys.
4. Outward Hound Nina Ottosson Dog Casino Interactive Treat Puzzle Dog Toy
We highly recommend the Outward Hound Nina Ottosson Dog Casino Interactive Treat Puzzle Dog Toy for dogs who need mental stimulation and a challenge.
Pros
- This puzzle toy is an excellent way to keep your dog mentally active and engaged.
- The six treat drawers provide a fun and challenging way for your dog to find hidden treats.
- The toy is made of durable, safe, and easy-to-clean materials.
Cons
- Some dogs may find the puzzle too challenging at first.
- The puzzle may not be suitable for dogs who are aggressive chewers.
- The toy may not be as challenging for dogs who are experienced with puzzle toys.
We were impressed with the Outward Hound Nina Ottosson Dog Casino Interactive Treat Puzzle Dog Toy. Our dogs loved the challenge of finding the hidden treats, and it kept them mentally stimulated and engaged for a long time. The six treat drawers provide a fun and challenging way for your dog to find hidden treats, and the toy is made of durable, safe, and easy-to-clean materials.
The puzzle toy is an excellent way to keep your dog mentally active and engaged, and it’s a great way to redirect destructive or negative behavior in a fun and exciting way. However, some dogs may find the puzzle too challenging at first, and the puzzle may not be suitable for dogs who are aggressive chewers. Additionally, the toy may not be as challenging for dogs who are experienced with puzzle toys.
Overall, we highly recommend the Outward Hound Nina Ottosson Dog Casino Interactive Treat Puzzle Dog Toy for dogs who need mental stimulation and a challenge.
5. CPYOSN Dog Squeaky Toys Octopus
If you’re looking for a fun and safe toy for your furry friend, the CPYOSN Dog Squeaky Toys Octopus is a great option.
Pros
- The bright color and adorable character of this octopus plush toy will attract your dog’s interest and keep them entertained for hours.
- The squeaker in the head and crinkle paper sound in the tails will immediately grab your dog’s attention and make for a fun interactive experience.
- The 100% stuffing-free design makes this toy safe for your puppy to chew and play, without any worry of swallowing or choking.
Cons
- This toy may not be suitable for aggressive heavy chewers, as it is not designed for extreme durability.
- Some customers have reported that the toy may not last very long with vigorous play.
- The toy may lose its squeaking ability after extended use.
We recently tried out this toy with our furry friend and were pleased with the results. The size of the toy is perfect for puppies, small, medium, and large dogs alike. Our dog was immediately drawn to the bright colors and fun character of the octopus, and the squeaker and crinkle paper sounds made for a great interactive experience. We appreciated the safe and high-quality materials used in the construction of the toy, and the fact that it is machine washable for easy cleaning. Overall, we would recommend the CPYOSN Dog Squeaky Toys Octopus to anyone looking for a fun and safe toy for their furry friend.
6. SHARLOVY Crinkle Squeaky Pet Toys
We highly recommend the SHARLOVY Crinkle Squeaky Pet Toys for dog owners who want to keep their furry friends entertained for hours.
Pros
- The pack of 5 toys offers a variety of options for dogs to play with.
- The stuffing-free design means no mess or choking risks.
- The crinkle paper inside the toys adds an extra layer of fun for dogs.
Cons
- The squeakers and crinkle paper may not last as long for heavy chewers.
- Some customers reported issues with the squeakers being damaged upon arrival.
- The toys may not be suitable for very small dogs.
These toys are a great value for the price, and our dogs couldn’t get enough of them. The long, plush design and internal squeakers kept them entertained for hours on end. We also appreciated the stuffing-free design, which meant no mess or choking risks.
The crinkle paper inside the toys added an extra layer of fun, and our dogs loved the variety of animals included in the pack. However, we did notice that the squeakers and crinkle paper may not last as long for heavy chewers, and some customers reported issues with the squeakers being damaged upon arrival.
Overall, we highly recommend the SHARLOVY Crinkle Squeaky Pet Toys for any dog owner looking for a fun and engaging toy for their furry friend. Just be sure to supervise play and replace any broken toys in a timely manner.
7. FIREOR Dog Squeaky Toys
We highly recommend the FIREOR Dog Squeaky Toys for any dog owner looking for a fun and interactive toy that will keep their furry friend entertained for hours.
Pros
- The assortment of five big woodland animals provides a variety of shapes and sizes to keep your dog engaged and stimulated.
- The 100% stuffingless design ensures that there is no risk of your dog swallowing or choking on any dangerous stuffing.
- The two squeakers in both the head and tail of each toy will keep your dog’s attention and help to reduce anxiety and destructive behavior.
Cons
- These toys are not recommended for extra aggressive chewers, such as hounds.
- The toys may not be as durable as some other options on the market.
- Some dogs may lose interest in the toys after a few weeks of use.
Our dog loved playing with these toys and we appreciated the high-quality, non-toxic plush fabric that ensured their safety and durability. The toys were easy for our dog to carry, toss, and roll around with, and we enjoyed the quality interactive playing time that increased our bond with our furry friend.
In summary, if you’re looking for a safe, fun, and interactive toy that will keep your dog entertained and happy, the FIREOR Dog Squeaky Toys are a great choice.
8. Jalousie 12 Pack Plush Animal Dog Toy
If you’re looking for a variety of plush toys for your furry friend to play with, the Jalousie 12 Pack Plush Animal Dog Toy set might be worth considering.
Pros
- The set includes 12 different squeaky plush toys, providing your dog with hours of entertainment.
- The toys are made with premium quality materials and are sewn together without the use of glue.
- In addition to being fun for your dog to play with, these toys can also help with dental cleaning and stress relief.
Cons
- These toys are not recommended for aggressive chewers, as they are not indestructible.
- Some customers have reported that the squeakers do not last very long.
- The toys may not be suitable for larger breeds of dogs.
We recently purchased the Jalousie 12 Pack Plush Animal Dog Toy set for our small dog, and overall we were pleased with our purchase. Our dog enjoyed playing with the variety of toys included in the set, and we appreciated that they were made with high-quality materials and sewn together without the use of glue.
However, we did notice that some of the toys did not hold up very well to our dog’s chewing and playing, and the squeakers did not last as long as we had hoped. Additionally, we could see how these toys might not be suitable for larger breeds of dogs, as they are relatively small in size.
Overall, we would recommend the Jalousie 12 Pack Plush Animal Dog Toy set for small or medium breeds of dogs who enjoy playing with plush toys, but we would caution against purchasing them for aggressive chewers or larger breeds.
9. AOZOOM Tough Durable Dog Chew Toys
We highly recommend the AOZOOM Tough Durable Dog Chew Toys for pet owners looking for an indestructible dog toy that can also function as a puzzle toy.
Pros
- Made of 100% natural rubber, perfect for aggressive chewers
- Can help grind teeth, relieve anxiety, train, and reduce damage to furniture or shoes
- Contains a delicious milk flavor that will attract your pets to play longer
Cons
- Holes are pretty small for treats
- Toy is heavy, not suitable for playing fetch
- Pieces can be chewed off and eaten if not monitored
The AOZOOM Tough Durable Dog Chew Toys are made of 100% natural rubber, making them perfect for aggressive chewers. The toy can help grind teeth, relieve anxiety, train, and reduce damage to furniture or shoes. Additionally, the toy contains a delicious milk flavor that will attract your pets to play longer, effectively cleaning teeth, food residue on the tongue, and keeping oral health and fresh breath.
One downside is that the holes in the toy are pretty small for treats, but a light smear of peanut butter can get your dog interested. Also, the toy is heavy and not suitable for playing fetch. Finally, pieces can be chewed off and eaten if not monitored.
Overall, the AOZOOM Tough Durable Dog Chew Toys are a great investment for pet owners looking for a long-lasting, stimulating toy for their furry friend. Plus, the free return service ensures customer satisfaction.
10. LEGEND SANDY Dog Balls Treat Dispensing Toys
We highly recommend the LEGEND SANDY Dog Balls Treat Dispensing Toys for dogs who love to play and chew.
Pros
- The toy is perfect for dogs who love to play and chase. The funny sound and texture make it more attractive to the dogs.
- The toy is perfect for large dogs and aggressive chewers. It is made of natural rubber with 10mm thickness that makes it tough and durable.
- The toy is perfect for cleaning teeth. The herding ball helps to clean teeth immediately after treats by chew on textures.
Cons
- The toy is not suitable for dogs who don’t like squeaky sounds.
- The opening for the treats is large and treats can fall out right away.
- The toy can get covered in dog hair.
We have used the LEGEND SANDY Dog Balls Treat Dispensing Toys for our own dogs and they absolutely love it. The toy is perfect for keeping dogs entertained and engaged for hours. The funny sound and texture of the toy make it more attractive to the dogs. The toy is also perfect for large dogs and aggressive chewers. It is made of natural rubber with 10mm thickness that makes it tough and durable.
The herding ball is also perfect for cleaning teeth. It helps to clean teeth immediately after treats by chew on textures. The toy is not suitable for dogs who don’t like squeaky sounds. The opening for the treats is large and treats can fall out right away. The toy can also get covered in dog hair.
Overall, the LEGEND SANDY Dog Balls Treat Dispensing Toys is a great investment for any dog owner. It is perfect for keeping dogs entertained, engaged, and mentally stimulated. We are confident with the durable dog toys and offer a 30-day money-back guarantee.
11. MateeyLife Dog Puzzle Toys
If you’re looking for a fun and interactive way to stimulate your dog’s mind, then the MateeyLife Dog Puzzle Toys might be just what you need.
Pros
- The puzzle has three difficulty levels, making it suitable for dogs of all skill levels
- Made from food-safe materials, making it a great option for dogs with sensitive stomachs
- Non-removable parts make it safe for play and prevents choking hazards
Cons
- Some dogs may quickly figure out how to solve the puzzle, making it less challenging over time
- The built-in whistle may be too loud or startling for some dogs
- The puzzle may not be suitable for larger dogs, as it may be too small for them to play with comfortably
We’ve had a lot of fun playing with this puzzle and watching our dog try to solve it. It’s a great way to keep them entertained and mentally stimulated, and it’s also a great way to train them and encourage good behavior.
The three difficulty levels are a great feature, as it allows us to adjust the puzzle to our dog’s skill level and keep them challenged. The food-safe materials are also a plus, as it allows us to use the puzzle as a treat dispenser without worrying about any adverse reactions.
One thing to keep in mind is that some dogs may quickly figure out how to solve the puzzle, making it less challenging over time. Additionally, the built-in whistle may be too loud or startling for some dogs, so it’s important to monitor your dog’s reaction to it. Finally, the puzzle may not be suitable for larger dogs, as it may be too small for them to play with comfortably.
Overall, we would definitely recommend the MateeyLife Dog Puzzle Toys to anyone looking for a fun and interactive way to stimulate their dog’s mind. It’s a great way to keep them entertained, mentally stimulated, and well-behaved.
12. RETALPQ Dog Puzzle Toys
We highly recommend the RETALPQ Dog Puzzle Toys for pet owners looking for a fun and interactive way to feed their furry friends.
Pros
- The size is perfect for puppies and cats, and the slider is easy to move.
- This puzzle toy is great for exercising your dog’s brain and training their sense of smell.
- The RETALPQ Dog Puzzle Toys is a fun and interactive toy that can become your pet’s closest companion
Cons
- The toy is not indestructible, so it should not be left with unattended pets.
- Some kibble pieces can get stuck in the middle tracks, making it difficult for your pet to get their food.
- It may be too easy for some dogs to figure out, so it may not provide a long-lasting challenge.
In our experience, the RETALPQ Dog Puzzle Toys is a great way to slow down your pet’s eating and improve their digestion. The puzzle toy encourages your pet to eat at a slower pace, which can be especially helpful for dogs that tend to eat too quickly.
The RETALPQ Dog Puzzle Toys is also a great way to provide your pet with mental stimulation and enrichment. It’s an interactive toy that can keep your pet entertained for hours, and it’s a great way to bond with your furry friend.
Overall, we highly recommend the RETALPQ Dog Puzzle Toys for pet owners looking for a fun and interactive way to feed their pets. It’s a great way to slow down your pet’s eating, provide them with mental stimulation, and improve their overall health and well-being.
Buying Guide
When it comes to buying puzzle toys for dogs, it is important to consider a few key factors to ensure that you choose the best product for your furry friend. Here are some features to look for when selecting a puzzle toy for your dog:
Durability
One of the most important factors to consider when choosing a puzzle toy for your dog is durability. You want to make sure that the toy is made of high-quality materials that can withstand your dog’s chewing and playing. Look for toys that are made of tough, non-toxic materials such as rubber or nylon.
Size
It is also important to choose a puzzle toy that is the right size for your dog. A toy that is too small can be a choking hazard, while a toy that is too large may be difficult for your dog to play with. Make sure to choose a toy that is appropriate for your dog’s size and breed.
Complexity
The complexity of the puzzle toy is another important factor to consider. You want to choose a toy that is challenging enough to keep your dog engaged, but not so difficult that they become frustrated and give up. Look for toys that have different levels of difficulty or that can be adjusted to suit your dog’s skill level.
Interactive Features
Finally, consider the interactive features of the puzzle toy. Look for toys that require your dog to use their paws or nose to manipulate the toy, as these types of toys provide mental stimulation and can help to reduce boredom and anxiety.
By considering these factors when choosing a puzzle toy for your dog, you can ensure that you select a high-quality product that will provide hours of entertainment and mental stimulation for your furry friend.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are some popular dog puzzle toys?
Some popular dog puzzle toys include the Kong Classic, Outward Hound Hide-A-Squirrel, Nina Ottosson Dog Tornado, and Trixie Flip Board.
What are some challenging puzzle toys for dogs?
Some challenging puzzle toys for dogs include the Outward Hound Nina Ottosson Dog Tornado, Trixie Mad Scientist for Dogs, and the Nina Ottosson Dog Brick.
Can puzzle toys help keep dogs entertained while owners are at work?
Yes, puzzle toys can help keep dogs entertained while owners are at work. Puzzle toys provide mental stimulation for dogs and can help prevent boredom and destructive behavior.
What are some DIY dog puzzle toys?
Some DIY dog puzzle toys include the muffin tin puzzle, the PVC pipe puzzle, and the treat ball puzzle.
What are some good puzzle feeders for dogs?
Some good puzzle feeders for dogs include the Outward Hound Fun Feeder Slo-Bowl, the KONG Wobbler, and the PetSafe Busy Buddy Twist ‘n Treat.
Are puzzle toys beneficial for dogs’ mental stimulation?
Yes, puzzle toys are beneficial for dogs’ mental stimulation. They provide a fun and interactive way for dogs to use their problem-solving skills and can help prevent cognitive decline in older dogs.
