Think only humans could enjoy puzzles [1]? Think again. Interactive toys are not only fun for dogs - they're healthy for them, too. Giving your dog a puzzle game can help relieve their anxiety [2], teach them problem-solving skills, and keep them moving. There's a huge variety to choose from, including puzzles that incorporate scent, puzzles for aggressive chewers [3], and even different skill levels! I started using a slow-feeding [4] puzzle toy for my dog, who eats crazy fast, and it helped limit his eating speed without him even realising it. But it's not just a gift for them - you won't have to worry about your dog getting into trouble [5], or about entertaining them when you're busy [6]. Plus, it's adorable to watch your pup figure them out! All dogs have different tastes, so keep sliding for a variety of puzzles for your pup to play with!
Frisco Retro Waffle Box Hide and Seek Toy
This retro Frisco Retro Waffle Box Hide and Seek Toy [8] ($12, originally $13) is simple, soft, and perfect for medium dogs. Who doesn't love waffles?!
West Paw Qwizl Tough Treat Dispensing Dog Chew Toy
The West Paw Qwizl Tough Treat Dispensing Dog Chew Toy [9] ($21) will keep larger dogs moving, and is perfect for fetch. The cut-out centre gives the dog a scent of the treats inside, motivating them to get them out!
Frisco Hide and Seek Plush Volcano Puzzle Dog Toy
With the Frisco Hide and Seek Plush Volcano Puzzle Dog Toy [10] ($16), bigger dogs can discover squeaky dinosaur toys in the volcano. It's versatile, and can go from playtime to nap-time with its soft plush texture!
Nina Ottosson by Outward Hound Smart Puzzle Game Dog Toy
The Nina Ottosson by Outward Hound Smart Puzzle Game Dog Toy [11] ($11, originally $15) is an entry-level challenge, but can be adjusted to teach your dogs new skills!
Outward Hound Nina Ottosson Challenge Slider Puzzle Dog Toy
Strategically designed, the Outward Hound Nina Ottosson Challenge Slider Puzzle Dog Toy [12] ($27, originally $30) requires the tiles to be moved over, up, or down to access 24 treat compartments. Your dog will love the challenge of sniffing and pawing through the sequential steps.
Trixie Activity Poker Box Dog Toy, Level 2
The Trixie Activity Poker Box Dog Toy, Level 2 [13] ($16, originally $27) improves your dog's patience and intelligence as they figure out how to open the different boxes. It's an intermediate toy that can help take your dog's puzzle skills to the next level!
Nina Ottosson by Outward Hound Hide N' Slide Puzzle Game Dog Toy
Just hide treats in the Nina Ottosson by Outward Hound Hide N' Slide Puzzle Game Dog Toy [14] ($20, originally $25), and watch your pup play! This toy is elevated, which makes it fun for small, short-nosed dogs who tend to have tend to have difficulty moving pieces.
NULYOO Dog Puzzle Toy - Blue
This cleverly designed puzzle helps your pet's cognitive abilities by providing movable sliders in different directions and movements. Doubling as a slow feeding bowl, the NULYOO Dog Puzzle Toy - Blue [15] ($16, originally $18) has it all! It also comes in a shade of pink.
Sniffiz SmellyMatty Snuffle Mat for Dogs
The pleasantly puzzling challenge of the Sniffiz SmellyMatty Snuffle Mat for Dogs [16] ($45) has 5 different levels that can slow feed your dog an entire meal. It's helpful for dogs with indigestion, bloating, and other stomach issues related to eating too quickly.
Ethical Pet Seek-A-Treat Flip N Slide Puzzle Dog Toy
The Ethical Pet Seek-A-Treat Flip N Slide Puzzle Dog Toy [17] ($17, originally $19) is a fun way to give your pup treats. It's super easy to connect to other connecting puzzles, too — you can make a whole obstacle course!
Dog Puzzle Feeder
Etsy user LittlelaserworCrafts [18] created this sustainable Dog Puzzle Feeder [19] ($22) that "will not be around in landfill for the next 1000 years." It's uniquely designed so your dog can see its colours, and perfect for feeding your pup dry treats!
Nina Ottosson by Outward Hound Brick Puzzle Game Dog Toy
The Nina Ottosson by Outward Hound Brick Puzzle Game Dog Toy [20] ($14, originally $25) is a blast for treat-hunting small dogs.
PAW5: Wooly Snuffle Mat - Feeding Mat for Dogs (12" x 18")
Let your dog exercise their brain and find hidden food with this PAW5: Wooly Snuffle Mat - Feeding Mat for Dogs (12" x 18") [21] ($33, originally $40). The feeding mat is super versatile and can be used for dogs any size!
Trixie Mini Mover Activity Strategy Game Dog Toy, Level 3
If your dog has outsmarted all of their puzzle games, they're ready for the ultimate challenge: the Trixie Mini Mover Activity Strategy Game Dog Toy, Level 3 [22] ($12, originally $17). It has four different levels, and even comes with an instructional booklet with tricks to make the most of it!
CALHNNA Smart Dog Puzzle Toy
The CALHNNA Smart Dog Puzzle Toy [23] ($18, originally $19) is a helpful slow feeding toy that assists with the digestion of your puppies and small-to-medium-sized dogs. Designed using eye-catching colours in your pup's spectrum, it's sure to capture their attention.