Your furry, four-legged friend is intelligent, active, and needs regular stimulation to keep them mentally (and physically) in shape. While plenty of daily exercise is crucial for our canines to stay healthy, brain work and mental enrichment provide a challenge for your pet’s cognitive skills and keep them entertained!
Here are our top ten recommendations for brain toys to keep Fido busy!
Kong Classic Dog Toy: A true classic among dog owners! Made from durable rubber, this toy can do it all. Play fetch in the backyard and watch it bounce or stuff it with treats and let your pup figure out how to get them out. One of our favorite stuffing techniques? Peanut butter and freeze it.
Outward Hound Hide-A-Squirrel: Have a dog that loves using their nose? This fun puzzle toy challenges your pet to find the squeaky squirrels inside the tree and is excellent for those canines who like to problem solve and search.
Tug-A-Jug: Got a puller? We have the solution. This clear jug can be filled with tasty treats and closed with a ball and rope at the end. It provides a healthy playing habit and a cure for boredom and separation anxiety.
ZippyPaws Skinny Peltz: They’re so cute AND practical! These pelt-like toys are excellent for dogs who enjoy hunting and forging and can have treats placed inside them for extra hours of play. And the minimal stuffing inside makes for easier cleaning if (and when) your pup wants to tear them apart.
Trixie Activity Flip Board: With multiple compartments to stuff treats into, this puzzle game is way too much fun for dogs who enjoy solving puzzles and using their noses to search for treats.
PetSafe Busy Buddy Jack: A great option for all those strong chewers out there! The nylon knobs and textured rubber make it a challenge for your pup to access those treat rings (meaning they’ll be playing for a LONG time!)
Nylabone Dura Chew Textured Ring: A durable ring chew will satisfy your pup's natural urge to chew while cleaning their teeth!
StarMark Bob-A-Lot: If your pup is extra playful, this plastic ball with a built-in treat dispenser is perfect. Keep them entertained and hopping around while figuring out how to get the most treats possible!
JW Pet Hol-ee Roller: A big rubber ball with plenty of holes to stuff treats into - what could be better? Entice your dog to fetch and put some of their favorite goodies inside as they work to pull them out!
PetSafe Busy Buddy Twist 'n Treat: And to finish our list, this fantastic rubber disk with a built-in treat dispenser is great for gentle to moderate chewers who are treat motivated!
These brain toys are an excellent way to keep your pup happy, anxiety free, and to let them use their natural instincts in the comfort of your home. Make sure to always supervise your dog while they play with these toys and replace the toy if you see signs of wear and tear. And, as always, keep their water bowls full while they play if they need a drink!