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12 Interactive Dog Toys and Puzzles for the Smartest Pets of Them All

Roxanna is a freelance writer for MarthaStewart.com.

problem solving toys for puppies

According to Stanley Coren, PhD, from the University of British Columbia, the average dog has the same level of intelligence as a two-year-old human child . At a 2009 convention, Coren spoke at an American Psychological Association (APA) convention and explained that household pups have the ability to understand more than 150 words. "There are three types of dog intelligence: instinctive (what the dog is bred to do), adaptive (how well the dog learns from its environment to solve problems), and working and obedience (the equivalent of 'school learning')," he said at the time. Different breeds of dogs show varying levels of intelligence, but his research concludes that the smartest dogs compare to the intelligence of human toddlers.

Based on other research from 2016, our canine companions have a cognitive structure similar to us. Dogs learn by example, like we do, but they can figure out problems on their own as well. Most of us know that our dogs are more likely to get into trouble when they're unoccupied with nothing to do. Walking our dogs is a good daily regimen, but that's not the only thing we should be doing to keep our pups healthy. "Dogs need mental exercise," says Brian Kilcommons, dog trainer and owner of Great Pets Resort . We can enrich their lives by providing toys that offer interactive play or require problem solving.

Puzzle toys have enclaves to hide toys or homemade treats , allowing your dog to "hunt" for the item. Other games allow your dog to play fetch or "chase" games all by themselves. Of course, you still want to spend play time with your canine pal, but these toys give your dogs the opportunity to solve problems on their own. You'll have the smartest dog in the neighborhood.

What toy should every canine have in their toy box? The best-selling Odin is one of the most durable treat dispensers. Place a kibble (or up to a cup of food) inside of the toy and let your pup work to get it out. Its modular design allows for two or more toys to be connected to change playtime.

Shop Now: Up Dog Toys "The Odin" Treat Puzzle Toy, in Gray, $23, amazon.com .

This toy features a custom falcon-claw design with two treat cavities—for both dry food (like kibble) and spreads (like peanut butter) simultaneously—while the interlocking shape allows multiple toys to combine for added functionality. The modern colors blend into any décor while also optimizing for your dog's visible color spectrum.

Shop Now: Fable Falcon Toy, $23, fablepets.com .

Wild One Toy Kit

This bundle comes with three toys: the Triangle Tug, the Bolt Bite, and the Twist Toss. Since it's not a perfect sphere, the ball will bounce in an unpredictable manner. This means that your dog will have to act fast in order to catch it. You can hide chew treats inside of the toy for an extra reward. The rubber is 100 percent natural and completely BPA-free, so you know your dog is getting the best.

Shop Now: Wild One Toy Kit, in Tan, $58, wildone.com .

This is an innovative puzzle for dogs, offered at three levels of difficulty appropriate for your dog. To play, your dog nudges the movable tiles to find the hidden treats.

Shop Now: My Intelligent Pets "Genie" Dog Sudoku, in Medium, $52, myintelligentpets.com .

The Flip Board

To prep this game for play, hide treats in the compartments. (Not every compartment will have a treat, so your dog will need to be able to figure out which ones do.) If he pushes the right levers with his paw, he can find a savory surprise. This game is designed for dogs that have intermediate puzzle-solving skills, and you should supervise your dog's playtime with this one.

Shop Now: Trixie Pet Products Flip Board, $11, amazon.com .

Who knew there was a way to play fetch with your pup while you're at work? The iFetch is an automatic ball launcher that kicks on when your dog drops a ball in its chute—throwing a ball up to 30 feet every time it brings it back.

Shop Now: iFetch Interactive Ball Launcher, starting from $130, amazon.com .

Wickedbone Smart Bone

Looking for the perfect toy for your pup when you're away at work? This motorized Smart Bone lets you control its speed and movements straight from your smartphone, so you can play with your dog remotely.

Shop Now: Wickedbone Smart Bone, $99, amazon.com .

Tether Tug Outdoor Dog Toy

Now, your dog can engage in some stimulating "solo" play in the backyard. Securely attach the bungee cord to a tree or sturdy post so that your pup can play a game of tug-of-war. The bungee action means that your dog will be able to catch the rope more than once without the risk of losing it under the bushes or fence.

Shop Now: Tether Tug Outdoor Dog Toy, starting from $65, petco.com .

Hide N' Slide Interactive Dog Toy

Once your dog is ready to graduate to harder games, give this one a try. The bone-shaped pegs can "lock" the treat drawers so that your dog has to figure out how to "unlock" them. You can also leave the drawers unlocked. Your dog can use his nose or his paws to find the treats.

Shop Now: Nina Ottosson by Outward Hound Hide N' Slide Interactive Dog Toy, $15.15, chewy.com .

Zippy Burrow Log with Three Chipmunks

Cute plush squirrels hide within a plush tree stump. Each squirrel has a squeaker inside that your dog will find irresistible! Your pup will love trying to get the squirrels out of the tree. Make it more interactive by also playing a game of fetch using the squirrels.

Shop Now: Zippy Burrow Log with Three Chipmunks, $20, zippypaws.com .

StarMark Bob-A-Lot Interactive Dog Toy

The larger chamber in this toy can fit an entire meal! Your dog can work for his dinner with this game that provides an opportunity to hunt and solve problems. It's also great for helping your dog to not overeat.

Shop Now: StarMark Bob-A-Lot Interactive Dog Toy, $11.19, chewy.com .

Snuffle Mat

All dogs have a natural foraging instinct, and this mat engages their sense of smell. Hide treats into the shaggy fabric so that your dog can hunt by smell. Let him stick his nose in the snuffle mat to find all the goodies. (Don't worry, it's machine-washable.) It reminds him of the great outdoors, but provides a tastier reward.

Shop Now: PAW5 Wooly Snuffle Mat, $40, amazon.com .

9 Best Puzzle Toys For Dogs: Keep Spot Engaged!

Toys By Meg Marrs 17 min read September 1, 2021 12 Comments

best dog puzzle toys

Best Puzzle Toys: Quick Picks

  • Classic Kong [Best Basic Toy] A great basic challenge toy that requires dogs to work a bit harder for dinner as they lick inside the Kong and dislodge what’s inside.
  • Brick Toy by Nina Ottosson [Best Level 2 Challenge] A super fun puzzle toy that requires dogs to nudge, dislodge, and flip various compartments to find all the treats hidden inside!
  • Outward Hound Fun Feeder [Best For Dinnertime] This puzzle toy is mostly all about encouraging your dog to slow down his eating. It’s a very easy challenge and great for a first attempt at a dog puzzle toy!
  • Snuffle Mat [Best For Sniffing Dogs] If you have a dog that loves to sniff (in particular dogs with a hunting or tracking background) they’ll love digging through these fabric folds for goodies!

Owning a high-energy dog or puppy can be exhausting at times, and obtaining puzzle toys for dogs give you an opportunity to take a break while ensuring your dog remains happy and active.

Both dogs and humans love brain stimulation – being challenged is a canine’s delight!

The best dog puzzle toys often involve making your dog work a little for a tasty reward.

Many dogs actually prefer to work for their food rather than eating out of a boring old bowl. Searching for food alleviates boredom , and sniffing activates your dog’s brain’s pleasure center!

9 Best Dog Puzzle Toys For Keeping Your Pooch Amused

We’re detailing the very best interactive dog toy puzzles that are sure to keep Fido entertained! Some toys require owner supervision (and even participation), while others can be left with your dog unattended.

1. Classic Kong

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kong-toy

Classic KONG

The original must-have puzzle toy.

This versatile puzzle toy is a favorite of animal shelters everywhere. It can be played with, chomped on, filled with food, and frozen!

About:  The ubiquitous Classic Kong is a great beginner puzzle toy to ease your dog into using their problem-solving skills. Start by filling it to the brim with a handful of dry kibble and let them figure out how to get it all.

As they become more adept at emptying the toy, increase the difficulty by using soggy kibble, peanut butter, or frozen treats . You can use the Kong to handle mealtime or to help a puppy adjust to crate training.

Plus, if you’re looking for an ultra-tough indestructible puzzle toy that you can leave your dog with home alone, the Classic Kong is an excellent choice (although you should always supervise your dog engaging with a toy several times before trusting him alone with it). The Classic Kong is available in several different sizes and strengths to meet your individual dog’s needs.

  • Vet Recommended. The Kong ball is a highly rated, vet-approved toy for keeping your dog happy and engaged.
  • Great For Dinner & Play. The Kong can be used both as a feeding system or as a simple fun, bouncy toy.
  • Ultra Durable & Chew-Proof. Kongs are known for their tough, chew-friendly rubber, so even owners of rough dogs need not fear the Kong.

Owners can’t say enough good things about Kong – they are one of the most well-known, reputable dog toy brands on the market. You can rest assured that you’re getting a high-quality toy for your dog.

Despite Kong’s amazing rubber, some dogs still manage to chew through (what are their teeth made of, dragon glass?).

2. Nina Ottosson Puzzle Toy For Dogs

brick-puzzle-toy

Nina Ottosson Brick Toy

Brain-boosting find-the-treat puzzle toy.

Pups must flip the covers off various compartments to find the morsels. One of the more popular Nina Ottosson puzzle toys!

About: This “Brick” style puzzle dog toy from Nina Ottosson allows you to hide treats under different “bricks” for your dog to sniff out and slide away to reveal the treat.

  • Good For Beginners. This is a great beginner puzzle toy for dogs new to the concept, with an easy to medium difficulty level.
  • Bond & Interact With Your Dog. This puzzle toy works best with dog owner interaction, allowing you and your canine to play together and bond!
  • Sturdy And Non-Toxic. This durable interactive toy is tough, non-toxic, and can be washed easily in a dishwasher.

Owners love that they can use this puzzle toy to play and engage with their dog.

Some owners note that their dog was able to solve this toy too easily, suggesting that it’s best for dogs new to puzzle toys or for young puppies. If you have a smarty pants dog , you may want to upgrade to a tougher toy.

3. Trixie Activity Board

trixie-activity

Trixie Activity Board

Intermediate-level puzzle toy that requires canine thinking.

Compartments must be moved and lifted in different ways for your dog to find the treats!

About: The Trixie Dog Activity Board is a puzzle toy for dogs that’s ideal for dogs who need a bit more of a challenge.

  • Use Mouth & Nose. Requires your dog to use their mouths and paws/noses to lift and shift pieces.
  • Requires critical thinking. Toy relies on different techniques for opening indentations.
  • Non-slip Rubber Feet. Non-slip feet allow your dog to push and nudge the toy without it toppling over or sliding around.
  • Washable. Machine washable and easy to clean.
  • May Require Some Teaching. Requires some initial training to teach your dog how to access the treats.

Owners love that this toy is more challenging for smart pantys pups who have mastered other puzzle toys

Owners note that is it very important to teach your dog and show them how to “win” at the game, otherwise they will simply get upset and frustrated.

4. Outward Hound Fun Feeder Slo Bowl

slow-eater-bowl

Outward Hound Slo Bowl

Ridged dog bowl that slows down speedy eaters.

This slow-eater dog bowl forces your dog to use his tongue to grab kibble rather than gulp it down all at once.

About: The Outward Hound Fun Feeder  is another basic toy that stimulates your dog while also slowing down how quickly they eat at mealtime.

If your dog struggles with gulping down kibble, slow feed dog bowls are a great way to stop your dog’s frantic gobbling while adding a bit of brain-boosting challenge to your dog’s dinner session.

  • Your Dog’s Dinner. Holds up to 4 cups of dry kibble, making it the perfect dinner time toy.
  • Helps Dogs Eat Slower. This toy is designed to help gobbling canines slow down, which in turn improves digestion and prevent bloating, choking, and other issues.
  • Food Safe Plastic. Made with food-safe ABS plastic that is  BPA, PVC & phthalate free.

This toy is perfect for dogs who devour their dinners – owners note the Outward Hound Fun Feeder makes dogs work a bit harder for their meal, in some cases saving owners several trips to the vet for bloat and digestion problems.

This dog puzzle toy can’t really be used for situations outside of meal time.

5. Nina Ottosson’s Dog Tornado Toy

tornado-toy

Dog Tornado Puzzle

A moderate-level spinning puzzle toy.

This Level 2 Ottosson toy requires your dog to move 12 spinning compartments in order to access goodies!

About:  Another Nina Ottosson toy called the Dog Tornado lets dogs swivel different stacked compartments to access hidden treats.

  • Can Leave Dogs Unsupervised. Unlike many others, this dog toy doesn’t require constant supervision.
  • Training Needed. Requires some training interaction at first to teach your pup how to use it.

Owners of witty canines love having a toy that can finally match their doggy’s Einstein mind.

This dog toy is more difficult and designed for dogs with big brains. If your dog is new to puzzle toys or not especially clever, they may simple find this toy too frustrating and get annoyed.

6. Kong Stuff-A-Ball Toy

About:  The next level up from the basic Kong, the KONG Stuff-a-Ball Toy offers a bigger challenge for motivated dogs.

stuff-a-ball

Kong Stuff-A-Ball

Teeth-cleaning treat dispenser.

Made of the same ultra-tough rubber at the standard Kong, this ball includes ridges to get your dog’s teeth clean!

  • Multiple Settings. This toy provides more treat dispensing options with external crevices and an internal dispenser.
  • Chew-Friendly.  Made from super durable, puncture-resistant, non-toxic rubber that Kong toys are known for.
  • Cleans Your Dog’s Teeth.  Toy’s ridges helps clean your dog’s teeth and massage gums.
  • Easy To Clean. This Kong toy is dishwasher safe and durable.

Owners appreciate how this toy cleans their dogs’ teeth while keeping them engaged. It also has a fun bounce to it!

A few owners with extra rough and tough chewing dogs found that this toy couldn’t hold up against super aggressive chompers.

7. Kong Wobbler

kong-wobbler

Kong Wobbler

Wobbling feeder that dispenses treats.

This feeder requires your dog to knock, nose, and paw at the weighted dispenser in order for food to fall out.

About: The Kong Wobbler toy wobbles and rolls across the floor in an unpredictable pattern, mixing activity and games with mealtime.

  • No Supervision Needed. This toy is pretty simple and has very few parts. You should be a-ok to leave your pup unattended while playing with this toy.
  • Easy for You and Your Pup. Simply unscrew the top of this toy, fill it with your dog’s breakfast or dinner, and let your dog go to town! Most dogs catch onto the batting and nosing required to get their food very quickly.

This toy is simple to use and easy to clean. Owners of smart dogs love how this toy is as much about physical skill as anything else — it doesn’t get old the way some other toys do. Even the smartest dogs can’t totally outwit this toy!

This toy can be a bit noisy as it rolls around on your floor. Keep this in mind if your downstairs neighbors work the night shift!

8. Snuffle Mat

Paw 5 Dog Snuffle Mat for Dogs Small Dog Toys Interactive, Boredom & Anxiety Premium Feeding Mat for Slow Eating & Smell Training, Dog Brain Toy

Snuffle Mat

Puzzle toy that challenges your dog’s sniffer.

Features soft felt strips that your dog must snuff and dig through to access kibble.

About: The Snuffle Mat is an absolute must-have for nervous or anxious dogs. Your dog will get the soothing benefits of using his nose and his mind to find his dinner. Think of it as an 80s shag carpet full of dog treats.

  • Relies Heavily on Scent. This toy is more of a scent game than a tough-to-solve puzzle. As we said above, sniffing is a great way to calm down nervous dogs.
  • Easy for Dogs. What’s more natural to a dog than using his nose to find food? This toy keeps dogs busy for a while, but doesn’t require any training on your end to make it work.

Owners of anxious dogs find this toy is really useful for soothing nervous dogs. Some owners even found it helped during thunderstorms or fireworks

This toy can get a bit dirty and should only be used with kibble. After a time, the fleece on this toy might get stretched out and might need to be replaced.

9. Household Recycling

About: Get creative with egg cartons, paper bags, cereal boxes, and other recycling around your home. We already have a whole article about DIY Puzzle Toys , but this is still an absolute favorite.

  • Switch it up Every Day. When your trash turns into toys, it’s easy to give your pup something new (almost) every day. While most owners certainly can’t afford 365 different puzzle toys, it’s not that hard to make a different piece of trash into a puzzle toy every day.
  • Let Your Dog Destroy Something. Many dogs, especially young ones, have a strong desire to shred things. When you pay for expensive toys (or new shoes), this is a problem. Letting your dog destroy a few cereal boxes can help make everyone happier!

It doesn’t get much cheaper than using your own trash to make toys for your dogs. You can get creative, or just close a few pieces of kibble into an egg carton and call it a day.

You generally have to clean up after your pup destroys a DIY puzzle toy. This can get old fast! You also need to be careful not to give your dog something that might hurt him if he eats it.

What’s The Best Puzzle Toy For Dogs? We Choose Kong

All the puzzle toys we detailed above are great choices for challenging your four-legged fur baby, but if you simply can’t decide where to start, we suggest going with Kong. Whether you want the simple kibble-based Kong Wobbler, the Stuff-a-Ball, or the classic Kong, Kong really has your bases covered.

I find the Kong Stuff-a-Ball to be the most “foolproof” toy of the lot, especially for dogs that are new to puzzle toys. It offers a broad range of stimulation and skill usage, and gives adult dogs and teething puppies an outlet for chewing.

For the level of occupation it provides, combined with the lack of training input on your part, the Kong Stuff-a-Ball is an ideal beginner or intermediate puzzle toy.

Also, considering its low price range, it’s not a big loss if your dog decides they don’t like it. It is a quality budget puzzle toy that suits a range of needs, making it the best option for new puzzle toy buyers.

K9 of Mine’s on-staff trainer, Kayla, travels the world with her border collie, Barley. When she packed Barley’s bag for the big trip, she chose to bring the Kong Wobbler instead of a food bowl or any other puzzle toy. It’s easy to clean, indestructible, and there are no parts for her to lose while traveling. While Barley still misses his Snuffle Mat and a few other puzzle toys, the Kong Wobbler’s wacky motion keeps him entertained every single day!

Benefits of Puzzle Toys For Dogs

Why do owners choose puzzle toys to occupy your dog over chewy treats or self-amusement toys (like textured squeaky toys )?

  • Keep Your Dog Occupied For Long Periods. For one thing, pup  puzzle toys can keep your dog occupied for a longer amount of time than even the squeakiest stuffed squirrel. A high-energy dog isn’t just in need of a reward (e.g., the squeaky sound, or the taste of the treat): they need to work for it! For dogs, the promise of food rewards can keep your dog engaged for huge stretches of time.
  • Release Happy Hormones. Sniffing for food releases dopamine into your dog’s brain. This hormone makes your dog feel relaxed and happy. Puzzle toys that are scent-based are extra good at making your dog feel better, but any puzzle toy that engages your dog’s “seeking pathway” of the brain will do the trick!
  • Prevent Destructive Behavior. Helping a dog focus their energy on an involving puzzle toy helps prevent them from turning to destructive or undesirable behaviors such as chewing furniture, nuisance barking, or begging.
  • Combat Boredom & Loneliness. Dogs need mental enrichment, just like people do. Especially during times when your dog is alone for long stretches , it’s important that they can occupy themselves and not get bored.

best puzzle toys for dogs

  • Provide Mental Stimulation. Like humans, dogs want to keep busy and can become neurotic or depressed when they don’t have enough opportunities to stimulate themselves.   Imagine being stuck at the doctor’s waiting room with no magazine and a dead mobile phone – you’d be bored stiff (and dogs don’t even have  smartphones – only those old brick Nokias, poor things).
  • Exhaust Pent Up Energy. Regular exercise is a great first step for getting rid of physical energy (a doggy treadmill does wonders as well), but an energetic, intelligent dog can be harder to satisfy. Whether you want to build your dog’s mental acuity, help them release some energy, or present a challenge, puzzle toys are an appealing option.

Puzzle Rewards + Your Dog’s Diet: Don’t Let Fido Get Fat!

Most dog puzzle toys involve food as the reward for “solving” the puzzle. This is highly motivating for dogs, especially for canines who are especially food-obsessed.

While food rewards can work wonders, and dog treats can make training a breeze , remember that it’s easy to overfeed your four-legged pal. It’s also much easier to overfeed your pooch than you’d think (just as it’s pretty easy to overfeed yourself when Dominos is running a 2 for 1 large pizza special).

Prevent your dog from gaining too much weight:

best-interactive-dog-toys

  • Use Visual Aids.  Not sure if your dog is on the chunkier side or not? There are many visual aids available to help you monitor your dog’s weight, including on the back of most dog food bags.

Your dog should have a visible waist, and their abdomen should tuck upwards when viewed from the side. You should also be able to feel your dog’s ribs beneath a light layer of fat.

  • Keep Breed In Mind. It’s also worth noting that appropriate weight can vary between breeds. I used to always think that my Doberman/Lab mix Benzy was too skinny since I could see his ribs, and was constantly trying to fatten him up . After discussing his weight with our vet, I learned that Benzy was at a perfect weight – his skinny, sleek look was just part of his genetic makeup.
  • Measure Out Puzzle Toy Treats.  To avoid having your pooch develop a potbelly when incorporating puzzle toys, make sure to count or measure out the treats or kibble the toy uses as a reward .

If your dog chows down the allotted amount in a flash, it’s time to switch to a more challenging toy – don’t just fill up the toy, or you’ll end up with a chubby canine.

  • Puzzle Time Can Be Dinner Time Too! You can also use puzzle toys as a method for your dog to “earn” their dinner. Put their usual meal amount of kibble into the toy and let them work for it. This is also a great solution for dogs that eat too fast or beg after they finish their meal. K9 of Mine’s on-staff dog trainer, Kayla Fratt, is a huge advocate for tossing your dog’s food bowl . Why just use a puzzle toy for treats, when you can feed a whole meal?

Many owners also choose to put their dog’s meals into a Kong ball and then freeze it , which also prevents dogs from gobbling their kibble in an instant.

While chunky pups can be cute, it’s important to keep your furry pal trim to ensure that they stay active, healthy, and feel great! Overweight pets have many of the same health concerns as overweight humans.

Want to see a canine puzzle toy in action? Check out Shiba Inu Saki play with Nina Ottosson’s Brick Puzzle toy (which we discuss in detail below).

When Dog Puzzle Toys Won’t Cut It

Dog puzzle toys can help canines that are destructive or anxious put their energy into something constructive and beneficial. However, you’ll want to avoid using dog puzzle toys as a bandaid solution for your dog’s vast and varied canine needs.

When considering incorporating puzzle toys into your pup’s playtime, keep these tips in mind.

  • No Substitute for Socializing.  Puzzle toys are great, but they are   never a full substitute for social interaction. Dogs are extremely  social creatures, and your dog still needs to interact with humans and other dogs on a regular basis to optimize their mental health and behavior.

Binging alone through 5 seasons of Arrested Development on Netflix is fun, but it’s not the same as a long conversation over coffee with a friend (or in a dog’s case, a good butt-sniffing at the park).

best mentally challenging dog toys

  • Dog’s Still Need Exercise. Puzzle toys are also not a full substitute for exercise. Some dogs just need to run until they drop, and no amount of Trivial Pursuit or Rubix’s Cube action will change that.
  • Not An Easy Answer To Separation Anxiety. Dogs with serious separation anxiety may not be appeased by puzzle toys. While boredom can often be quelled by puzzle toys, separation anxiety can have some deep-rooted causes that shouldn’t go unaddressed. Owners should consider professional training or thorough research on curing separation anxiety DIY style .
  • Frustration vs Aggression. Another important issue is the difference between doggie frustration (due to too much energy) and aggression. Puzzle toys won’t “fix” a dog with food aggression or other types of social misbehaviors. These types of more serious issues often require professional assistance. While we have some resources for working with aggressive dogs and dogs that resource guar d, you will do best getting help from a pro.

Look for a trainer with a certification from the International Association of Animal Behavior Consultants ( IAABC ) or the Certification Council for Professional Dog Trainers ( CCPDT ), which are widely accredited organizations within the US.

Dog Puzzle Toys FAQ

What puzzle toys are most challenging for smart dogs.

Look for puzzle toys with adjustable difficulty levels that allow owners to increase the challenge to make the puzzle tougher! Examples of puzzle toys that have this option are the CleverPet and the Trixie Dog Chess.

What can you put in a puzzle toy?

Puzzle toys can be filled with treats (the stinkier, the better) or even just your dog’s regular kibble.

What are the best indestructible puzzle toys?

If you’re looking for a tough, indestructible puzzle toy, anything by Kong is usually a safe bet.

The Classic Kong and Kong Wobbler are both great choices since they are made of whole, single pieces instead of several smaller, removable pieces, which is common with many other puzzle toys.

What are your favorite dog puzzle toys that you use with your dog? Any top picks we missed? Share your thoughts in the comments!

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27 Best Interactive Dog Toys: Keep Your Dog Occupied!

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Meg Marrs is the Founder and Director of Marketing at K9 of Mine. She is a lifelong canine enthusiast and adores dogs of all shapes and sizes! She loves iced coffee, hammocks, and puppy-cuddling!

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12 Comments

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November 4, 2021

There is a company named West Paw that has lots of toys to stuff. Made in America, and tough non toxic material. They even have a Toy Cook Book with lots of ideas to stuff their toys.

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November 5, 2021

We’re quite familiar with and fond of West Paw, Kathy. We talk about them a lot in our Best Dog Toy Brands article . Thanks for mentioning them, though! 🙂

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December 10, 2019

I was advised by a dog behaviourist, some time ago, to spread his food over the floor. I will now start spreading it over the backyard among the grass. Will also look for a shag for wet weather. Thank you for your article.

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September 13, 2019

This was the GREATEST article. I’m prepping for my aussie to come home and buying him toys before he arrives. I love this! So educational – I appreciate it!

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June 3, 2019

With the nina interactive puzzle I’m worried that my dog mite chew the parts and destroy the whole puzzle

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May 2, 2019

Thanks so much for this excellent and useful article. I’m definitely going to buy 3 or 4 of the items! I know that they’ll be great for our dog.

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March 18, 2019

The Triple Twist Dog IQ Puzzled by Seek-A-Treat is a 3 layer wood circular about one foot in diameter. Each circular opening layer is independent of the others and has six or so inch wide pockets to place treats or kibble. It is impossible to line up all three layers, so my dog pushes and spins each layer looking for anything from a tiny carrot piece, kibble pieces, treats, and leave some empty. Only con: the top spin cover is not wood and when I wasn’t watching my dog chewed the edges of it like it was thin cardboard. But I should have watched as I know the length of time it takes him to complete the puzzle. We found ours at Pet Palance locally.

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December 10, 2018

Thanks! Going to try out a few of these. My pup is an ultra chewer, so Kong doesn’t work (even their extreme level met it’s end in one day). But hoping the ones that are more of a puzzle can help entertain her.

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December 11, 2018

Good luck! We’d love to hear how it goes.

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October 23, 2018

My dog likes his Kibble Nibble and his Tug-a-Jug. But by far our favorite is Starmark Academy’s Treat Dispensing Puzzle Ball, however I would also recommend their Bento Ball and their other toys as well.

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September 1, 2018

Thank you so much for the great puzzle toys for dogs. I just adopted a Toy Poodle and I have read that they are very smart and if their brains aren’t challenged, they can get bored and depressed. You have given me such wonderful suggestions. I love playing with her but I enjoy even more to see her entertain herself because I know that she is having fun when I have to go somewhere. I can’t thank you enough and keep up your great suggestions!

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August 13, 2018

I LOVE this article and totally agree with you! I just have not had the time to write this out myself. I have a private group on fb “ditch the dish”. Thank you and I am going to share this!

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18 Best Interactive Dog Puzzle Toys

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It’s a classic scenario: You’re trying to focus on an important task — like cooking, working, or catching up on Survivor — and your pup is wanting all the attention… all the time. If you have a restless dog with a lot of energy to burn, dog puzzle toys and brain games are a great solution.

“Many dogs are under-stimulated and under-exercised...or pretty bored. They don’t have phones or watch TV,” says Stacy Alldredge, certified dog trainer, behaviorist, and founder of Who’s Walking Who opens in a new tab . Dog puzzles and “interactive toys are a great way to give your dog something to do. They’re also a way for kids to do something with a dog that doesn’t make them mouthy and jumpy.”

A dog sitting on a couch with a sudoku game on the floor.

Sudoku Is the Newest Brain Game for Dogs opens in a new tab

Let your dog win.

Types of interactive and puzzle dog toys

In addition to the mental stimulation that a dog gets from interacting with a puzzle toy, playing and chewing releases feel-good chemicals in the brain, which keeps dogs happy, busy, and using up energy. Dog puzzles and interactive toys come in a variety of styles and skill levels that any dog can benefit from.

Durable treat dispensing balls are popular for solitary play. The dog rolls around the ball to release food.

Slow-feeder food cubes and pyramids, such as Kong and Fable Pets opens in a new tab , require dogs to knock over the treat dispenser to get food.

With chew-puzzle toys, dogs need to chew and manipulate the toy to extract their reward.

Treat-puzzle games are interactive dog toys that require pups to flip open doors and lift compartments, using their paws and nose to find the hidden treats.

If your dog needs encouragement, make the toys more appealing by rubbing something tasty on them, such as peanut butter opens in a new tab . When you first introduce your dog to puzzle toys, make it easy for them to get the treats, then gradually increase the difficulty so that they learn how to extract the food. Otherwise, your dog may get frustrated, leading to the opposite of what is intended through enrichment and mental stimulation.

problem solving toys for puppies

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Once your dog gets ahold of this gorgeous toy, they’re gonna “ need to calm down ” for sure.

Choosing the best puzzle toy for your dog

Not all toys are the same, and not all dogs will respond to the same toys. If your dog needs activity, try a treat game that slowly dispenses treats or kibble while they chase it around the house (preferably away from where you’re working). “Some dogs will eat out of a puzzle toy but not out of a bowl,” Alldredge says. If your dog does not have that problem, but rather is such a fast eater that they make themselves sick, try a snuffle mat that replicates foraging behavior and slows mealtime down. If your dog needs confidence building opens in a new tab , try a simple puzzle game and gradually work them up to more difficult ones.

“A few years ago, I bought one of every dog puzzle game on the market,” Alldredge says. “And wow — some of them, like the Nina Ottosson opens in a new tab ones, were so hard to figure out!” Puzzle toys aren’t just for puppies, either. “The biggest mistake people make is forgetting that adult dogs need entertainment, too.” Below, the top 18 best dog puzzle toys. Let the games begin!

Btw, our editors (and their pets) picked out these products. They’re always in stock at the time we publish, but there’s a chance they’ll sell out. If you do buy through our links, we may earn a commission. (We’ve got a lot of toys to buy over here, you know?)

18 best interactive dog puzzle toys

fable the game

The high-design accessory brand’s first foray into puzzle toys holds 1 1 /2 cups of food, making this one ideal for fast eaters who need a side of stimulation — both mental and physical.

the paw feeder in three colors

If your pup has a habit of scarfing down their food and regurgitating it, you may be in need of a lick pad. This lick pad is tons of fun, plus helps keep their dinnertime excitement from turning into a two-part affair.

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the interactive dog puzzle toy in yellow and blue

Using 12 hidden compartments and three dog-bone covers, the latest from cult-favorite dog brand Outward Hound allows pet owners to adjust the toy’s difficulty to meet their pup’s needs. Just getting started? No problem. With this toy, it’s easy to work up to more advanced dog puzzles.

Nina Ottosson, the mastermind behind this toy, is all about exercising your pup’s brain with the help of puzzles. “My goal is for dogs and their owners around the world to have fun with my products,” Ottosson told The Wildest opens in a new tab . “I call them ‘games’ because the owner and the pet are supposed to play together, which strengthens the bond between them.”

the tennis ball toys in different colors

This Wild One opens in a new tab toy is ideal for the dog who has chewed more tennis balls than Rafa Nadal has seen in his life. It’ll help slow the destruction process by keeping the object of your pup’s affection just out of reach, offering a satisfying reward when they finally wriggle it free.

awoof snuffle mat

This snuffle mat is perfect for pups who want a little extra mental stimulation at dinnertime. Just scatter treats or kibble throughout the felt mat and watch them explore.

“Snuffle mats are a great way to provide enrichment and entertainment by helping dogs use their amazing sense of smell to find the hidden food. Sniff-based mental stimulation can help promote overall relaxation in dogs, as well,” veterinary behaviorist Dr. Valli Parthasarathy told The Wildest opens in a new tab .

west paw toppl toy

While this toy may seem small enough for a pup to conquer, its inner ridges keep pets from accessing their kibble without putting in the time and effort to unlock it. It’ll tucker your dog out and requires some serious concentration as they work to access their well-earned reward.

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red rock toy

This favorite is ideal for larger pups who enjoy gnawing on everything from chair legs to couch cushions to — more appropriately but not great opens in a new tab — tennis balls. Its irregular shape allows your pup to nose it around for hours and never tire of it.

iDig mat

For super energetic pups, the iDig is where it’s at. This toy allows pet parents to hide treats and kibble under the flap, so pups can let out some of those zoomies opens in a new tab by digging their way to the prize.

“Diggers need to dig,” trainer and The Wildest Collective member Nicole Ellis told The Wildest opens in a new tab . “I often hear frustration from pet parents about their  dogs digging opens in a new tab  in the yard, couch, and on the bed. Dogs naturally love to dig; it’s an innate desire. Instead of reprimanding your dog(s) for digging, give them somewhere to dig. And yes, even  cats love this toy opens in a new tab !”

Lambwolf baguette

We had you at “baguette,” right? It gets even better. This adorable nosework toy by Lambwolf is ideal for enrichment, with two large squeakers and four pockets for hiding treats.

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problem solving toys for puppies

For dogs who benefit from a more complicated treat-dispensing, scent-releasing toy, this is it. It also works as an added layer of complication for games of fetch.

Outward Hound Nina Ottosson brick toy

This intermediate level two design by Nina Ottosson includes additional obstacles and step combinations. It’s perfect for extra curious pups.

red wobbler interactive kong toy

Kongs are less about solving a puzzle than keeping a dog busy. Fill this toy with your pup’s favorite treats, and they can bat it around for a fun interactive experience that will help keep their separation anxiety at bay opens in a new tab when you leave the house.

“From puppies to seniors, everyone can enjoy a Kong,” Ellis added opens in a new tab . “Studies have taught us that licking and chewing help release stress in dogs, and the Kong helps achieve that while allowing your pup to have fun. It also helps our dog get some mental enrichment and learn to settle and focus on something.”

toy shaped like carrot

Let’s face it, half the toys we buy for our pets are because they’re just downright fun to look at — and this Petstages carrot toy is no exception. It’ll massage your pup’s gums and help remove plaque while keeping them entertained and out of trouble, which is a win-win if we’ve ever heard of one.

interactive feeder in blue and white with kibble

This very pretty slow feeder will stimulate your pup’s mind and also slow their roll while they feast upon their dinner.

Behaviorist Karen London opens in a new tab weighed in on why she loves slow feeders opens in a new tab for pups: “My favorite way to keep dogs from scarfing down their food too quickly is to use a dog food puzzle or slow feeder dog bowl that is specific to this purpose ... Not only does this slow down their eating, but it also provides mental exercise and gives dogs valuable experience being persistent and handling a bit of frustration. Never a bad thing, right?”

problem solving toys for puppies

Squirrels and squeaks: two things that endlessly fascinate our dogs, together at last! You stuff the squeaky squirrels in the tree, and your dog’s job is to hunt all six of them down in a kind of hide and seek.

omega tricky ball

This “tricky” treat ball lives up to its name. All you have to do is insert your dog’s favorite treats into the ball, and then let your pup have at it. They’ll push, roll, and paw the ball until the food falls out of the single hole. The simple design makes for hours of fun for your dog.

problem solving toys for puppies

This subscription box is made for dogs who love to chew. Beyond meaty chews and full-size bags of treats, these come with two fluff-free, ultra-durable toys, such as a treat-dispensing acorn. Did we mention they’re themed ?

problem solving toys for puppies

The internal maze of these colorful globes slowly dispenses treats, preventing boredom, and slowing down digestion.

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problem solving toys for puppies

Marisa Meltzer

Marisa Meltzer has contributed to The New York Times , Vogue , Vanity Fair , and is the author of This Is Big: How the Women Who Founded Weight Watchers Changed the World (and Me) . She lives in New York City with her dog Joan.

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Whether you've had a dog for a day or a decade, you know the following to be true: first comes a bored dog, then comes trouble. Fortunately, toys can help. And toys that require your dog to think will be effective for longer.

To that end, we've found the most mentally stimulating puzzles for dogs. Most of these toys use food to entice pups to flip, push, and roll them around in order to unlock a treat. Need even more ways to keep Fido entertained? Try adding one of the best interactive dog toys to their toy collection too.

Doskocil Treat Pod

Treat Pod

Hide some treats in this toy's tiny pods and your dog won't put it down until she digs them out. Bonus: It can also be used for tug-of-war, so it's great for interactive play too. 

RELATED:   20 Best Dog Toys for Pups Big and Small

Nina Ottosson by Outward Hound Outward Hound Dog Brick Toy

Outward Hound Dog Brick Toy

This puzzle is perfect for all levels. "It’s a Level 2 in terms of difficulty, but I recommend starting with this one rather than an easier Level 1 puzzle," says Ellis. "This puzzle is very versatile and adjustable in complexity so it will occupy the mind and paws of a beginner as well as a canine puzzle-master."

Ware Manufacturing Dog-E-Logic Interactive Dog Game

Your pup has to scratch and nudge to get these nobs out of their notches. Luckily, the entire toy is made of chew-resistant bamboo, so it'll stand up to Fido's attempts to tear it to pieces.

RELATED:   30 Indestructible Dog Toys for the Pet That Loves to Chew

Nina Ottosson Nina Ottosson Dog Magic Puzzle Toy

Pop some treats underneath a few of the bone compartments and challenge your pet to dislodge the bones and get his reward. The smell of Bacon Bites wafting through the air is enough motivation for any dog.  

SPOT Flip N' Slide Treat Dispenser for Dogs

For more of a challenge, upgrade to this board with multiple games. She'll have to decide whether to push, slide, or flip to get her kibble.

Outward Hound Hide-A-Squirrel Squeaky Puzzle

It's his favorite thing to hunt ... squirrels! Once he's figured out the game, these plush toys are perfect for fetch.

Outward Hound Hide N' Slide Treat Dispensing Dog Toy

Here's one you can play together: Choose one of the holes to hide a treat, then watch as he learns to slide the piece around to find it.

Trixie Trixie Flip Toy

Once Fido is ready for the next challenge, get him this flip board. The concept is similar to other puzzle games, but the added knobs and disks make getting to the treats a little more difficult.

Starmark Treat Dispensing Chew Ball

If your dog loves toys that roll, get him this treat dispensing ball. It's perfect for fetch and independent playtime. 

Nina Ottosson by Outward Hound Twister Interactive Dog Toy

This puzzle toy allows you to adjust the difficulty level by locking some of the compartments and leaving others open. Use it for treats or fill the compartments with kibble for a more mentally stimulating meal time. 

Busy Buddy Treat Dispensing Twist Toy

Your dog will have to twist and gnaw their way to a treat with this chew toy that's also a puzzle. Plus, the toy is dishwasher safe, which means you can wash it easily. 

SPOT Seek-A-Treat Shuffle Puzzle

Unlike other puzzles that reward your dog for random behavior, this one challenges her to actually think about what she is doing. Once she slides over the wooden piece, she'll find treats underneath!

Planet Dog Orbee-Tuff Link Toy

This soft cube can be transformed into a range of different shapes. When your pup gets it into the perfect position, it'll dispense treats for her to enjoy. 

Frisco Hide and Seek Volcano Puzzle Toy

Instead of food, this plush toy uses squeaky dinosaurs to entice your dog to pull them out one by one. Got a dog who loves to chew? You can also purchase dino refill packs in case one of the toys bites the dust. 

Busy Buddy Twist 'n Treat Dog Toy

Available in small, medium, and large sizes, this toy is great for pups of all kinds. The "puzzle" here isn't too difficult (all your dog needs to do is roll the toy), but you can tighten or loosen the twist to up the ante. Either way, your dog will love receiving treats as she plays. 

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