Is your dog restless, bored, or destructive? If that’s the case, they may be attempting to express natural instincts. If your dog’s actions aren’t channelled in an acceptable manner from time to time, it might lead to chewed-up shoes, unintended carpet renovation, or even turning you into their human popsicle (excessive licking can be a sign of anxiety!). We have the duty as pet parents to make sure our dogs get enjoyment since we control their environment and social schedule every day. Here are six enrichment toys that may help to fill in some of those gaps throughout the day to keep them excited and (fingers crossed!) avoid some of their more destructive habits.
1. Boredom Buster™ Snuffle Mat
It’s time for a little Hide and “Sniff” with the first enrichment toy on our list: a Snuffle Mat. Snuffle mats, such as this one from Boredom BusterTM, are an excellent way to use your dog’s natural foraging instincts while also rewarding them with delicious dog treats. Simply fill the various flaps, pockets, and all of the other nooks and crannies on the mat with goodies or food. Allow your dog to discover whatever he wants! Snuffle mats are available in a variety of sizes and colours, and they may serve as a lot of fun and mental stimulation for all breeds. The mat has an anti-slip bottom that is machine washable!
2. Frisco Hide and Seek Plush Volcano Dog Puzzle Toy
How many dinosaurs can you cram into a volcano? (I’m sure that’s the first time you’ve ever been asked that question.) You can fit six fiercely fuzzy dinosaurs into one Frisco’s Hide and Seek Plush Volcano, according to Frisco’s Hide and Seek Plush Volcano. Each dinosaur has a squeaker inside, making it even more enjoyable for your beloved pet to “rescue” them from the lava! As a dog parent to Brody, also known as the “killer of all squeaky toys,” I adore the fact that Frisco offers a refill pack for sale if your dog chews on a few of the dinos too aggressively.
3. West Paw Zogoflex Toppl Tough Treat Dispensing Dog Chew Toy
The West Paw Zogoflex Toppl Treat Dispensing toy will keep your dog occupied and interested. Made in Montana from recyclable, BPA- and phthalate-free and non-toxic materials, this toy traps treats with its inner ridges and wobbles back and forth to keep your dog busy. The Tough, Flexible, Springy, and Pain-Free Zogoflex Material is Exclusive to KONG. The toy can be interlocked with a second Toppl toy to take it to the next level and is suitable for breeds of all sizes. It’s also dishwasher safe!
4. Nina Ottosson Dog Brick
Flip, lift, slide, and treat! In this level 2 Nina Ottosson by Outward Hound Dog Brick dog puzzle, your dog will flip flaps, remove bones by pawing and nuzzling them, and then move blocks to reveal tasty food. This toy is both mentally stimulating and amusing, allowing it to help reduce anxiousness in dogs.
5. Nina Ottosson Wobble Bowl Interactive Treat Puzzle
Wobble till you gobble! With this Nina Ottosson Wobble Bowl Interactive Treat Puzzle, add a little more enjoyment and difficulty to dinner time. It may be used with treats or dog food to help slow down eating and avoid stomach upset and bloating.
6. LickiMat SlowMo
The textured surfaces of this mat scrape food particles and germs off your dog’s tongue, which is great for dental hygiene. This makes for a fantastic slow feeder alternative for flat-nosed dogs like French Bulldogs, as opposed to the traditional slow feeders with bumps and mazes. Finally, this biodegradable mat is also a microwave, freezer, and dishwasher safe, making preparation and cleaning a breeze!
Remember that it’s critical to keep an eye on your dog while introducing a new toy or product into their routine! It’s not always the case that if a toy is supposed to operate in one way, your dog will follow those instructions. We’ve all met dogs who think outside the box or just go straight for the box and chew it up and consume it! The toys featured here are meant to be used in conjunction with enriching activities that you can conduct with your dog on a daily basis. The absence of a toy may not be compensated for by spending more time together, but when utilized together, they might hopefully create a joyful and stimulating atmosphere for your dog!
