It’s no secret that dogs love their humans best. And much as you love your fur baby, sometimes they can get too explorative and mess with your house when left alone.
Buy the wrong toy, and your home could become a graveyard of destroyed toys in a few days. Being ready with the right products that suit your dog’s lifestyle, size, and chewing habits can shoo all worries away.
And when you have a dog that is a little too active, putting a halt to its behavior will only worsen its mental state.
Let’s take a look at some of the best dog toys to keep them busy for hours and will help redirect their target without realizing the ticking of clocks.
The 5 Best Dog Toys To Keep Them Busy For Hours
Kruuse Buster Food Cube Feeder
Dogs love toys, but they love toys with treats even better. Available in multiple colors and sizes, the Kruuse Buster Food Cube Feeder will put your dog in the mood for hunting all through the day.
If you’re heading out alone, fill the cube with kibbles, and you’ll find your dog struggling to finish them even when you return. And if your dog is an aggressive eater, this toy will help slow them down.
Features
This challenging treat dispenser is made of ABS plastic and measures 5.5 inches on all sides. The cube feeder is available in two sizes, Mini and Large, and has four color options. It features a spiral path for the treats to follow through an opening.
To use it, you need to unscrew the central cylindrical tube, fill the cube with treats or kibbles, and screw it back on.
Pros
- Chew-proof.
- Sturdy and durable.
- Encourages slow eating.
- Holds up to 2 cups of food.
- Encourages hunting instincts.
- Engages your dog in physical activity.
- Helps develop problem-solving skills.
- Stimulates your dog’s mental abilities.
Cons
- Difficult to clean.
- It may frustrate unenthusiastic dogs.
- The central cylinder is prone to quick wear down.
- Only works as a treat dispenser; it cannot be used as a chew toy.
- The twist and turns of plastic can be noisy for un-carpeted floors.
Verdict
The Kruuse Buster Food Cube Feeder is a multi-purpose toy that delivers food and entertainment in one go. Its interactive design can help dogs cope with boredom and provide mental stimulation, which is needed to boost their intelligence.
On a difficulty scale, this product can be a 10/10 as your dog will need to really concentrate and use its brain to get the treats. Because your dog will probably need a whole day to empty the treats out of these feeders, you have something that will keep your dog engaged for hours.
But there’s something you need to take into account. Some dogs may get frustrated when the treats don’t fall out easily. This is why you might consider saving it when your dog has become exceptionally fond of puzzle games.
Goughnuts Maxx
When you have a dog that loves to chew on clothes and furniture, it is best to redirect its attention to a different target. And the Goughnuts Maxx Chew Toy is a toy for the chewing champs.
Many hard toys last a lifetime, but not all of them are safe for your dogs. Lucky for you, this doughnut-like toy has nothing that’ll give in to wear and tear.
The brand boasts of being engineered by professionals experienced in making rubber for aircraft and spaceships, which is a credible advantage. Let’s look at the features it comes with.
Features
The toy is available in multiple colors and sizes, and the Maxx variant is the most durable as it has the least flexibility. It is made with reinforced natural rubber and can last a lifetime or be the last chew toy you buy.
The diameter of this product is 6.26 inches, and it weighs 1.7 lbs. At the center of the ring is present a red indicator. Once your pup reaches this layer of the toy, you can apply for a replacement.
Pros
- Safe for dog teeth.
- Durable with no weak spots.
- Lifetime replacement guarantee.
- The ring design provides an easy grip.
- Withstands the strength of aggressive chewers.
- Easy cleaning; simply wipe off dirt with a warm wet cloth.
Cons
- Non-floatable.
- It has a strong rubber odor, similar to a car tire.
Verdict
While most dogs don’t mind the odor, the strong rubber scent in Goughnuts Maxx may need a few washes before some dogs can really play with it. Remember to keep it away from deep waters as it is heavy and prone to sinking.
Also, the Maxx version may not be suitable for non-aggressive chewers. It is hard and doesn’t show tooth marks even with prolonged use. This can be a setback for moderate chewers who like chewing for fun. So, always consider your dog’s chewing habits before buying one.
You can opt for a gentler version of the same item if your dog isn’t a power chewer. And if your dog does love it, you’ll save more money than you would otherwise spend on buying new toys.
Kong Wobbler Treat Dispensing Toy
If your indoor dog gets minimal exercise or time outside, it’ll get aggressive when encountering objects that pique its curiosity. Well, you can use the Kong Wobbler Treat Dispensing Toy to bring a new obsession for your dog.
Kong is an exceptional brand specializing in pet products and always makes the best toys for your dog.
Features
The wobbler is shaped like a snowman and stands about a foot tall. It is heavy on the bottom, making the toy pop back up when your dog interacts with it. The toy is available in sizes Small and Large with varying price points.
To use it, you need to unscrew the top and bottom parts of the toy, fill it with treats or kibbles and screw the parts again. There is one opening from which the treats can fall out, and your dog needs to figure out which way to turn the toy to access the treats.
Pros
- Sturdy and chew-proof.
- Made with non-abrasive material.
- Dishwasher-safe and easy to clean.
- Stimulates mental activity for dogs.
- Holds one cup of treats, enough to last hours.
- Doesn’t create noise when rocked against floors.
- When without treats, it can serve as a normal toy.
- Keeps your dog engaged in physical activity for hours.
- It can be unscrewed into two sections for easy filling and cleaning.
Cons
- Only suitable for small and medium dogs.
- The large opening may be unsuitable for minute kibbles.
- Aggressive chewers may crack open the toy, destroying it.
Verdict
The Kong treat-dispensing toy is great for keeping your dog busy for hours. It helps fast eaters slow down and build resistance to aggressive chewing habits. But if your dog has figured out a way to get the treats out of the toy, they may empty the wobbler quickly.
The good thing about this product is that it can also be a fun toy to roll around. So you don’t have to stress about the treats running out.
All in all, this toy is a must-have for those looking for a durable multi-purpose toy that will feed your canines while keeping them entertained. However, don’t leave your dogs with it for too long once the treats are emptied.
Carllg Squeak Corn Stick
If you have dogs that are too attached to your voice, consider getting a squeaky toy. It’ll give them something to listen to, and they’ll probably keep biting it with curiosity.
The Carllg Corn Toy is one to look out for; it is relatively inexpensive, has an attractive design, and will keep your dog engaged for hours. What more could you ask? And if durability is a concern, you don’t have to worry much because the toy doesn’t disappoint.
Features
This toy is designed like corn, and the zig-zag kernel design helps clean your dog’s teeth. It has a squeaking mechanism, so your dog feels entertained for hours.
The kernels are made of chewable, bite-resistant thermoplastic rubber (TPR), while the corn silk is made from tear-resistant cotton rope. There is a whistle at the base of the toy, where the sound is produced when your pup bites the toy.
The toy is 5.8 inches long and 2.2 inches wide and is suitable for small, medium, or large dogs.
Pros
- Floatable.
- Dishwasher-safe.
- Works as a toothbrush.
- Durable and long-lasting.
- Relieves stress and boredom.
- Helps maintain your dog’s dental hygiene.
- Elastic and resistant to aggressive chewing.
- Made of non-toxic and eco-friendly rubber.
Cons
- It may be too small for giant dog breeds.
- Becomes a choking hazard once the kernels begin to fall off.
- The bite rope may detach easily, especially with aggressive chewers.
Verdict
The Carllg Corn toy will withstand the toughest of bites, well, unless your dog is a champ among aggressive chewers. No toy is completely indestructible, so you cannot expect them to last a lifetime without any wear and tear.
The bite rope may detach easily, and swallowing it may cause airway blockage. So, it’s best to remove it before letting your dog play with the toy.
Now, should you buy the squeak corn toy? Yes, if your dog needs a fun toy to keep him company when silence surrounds him. And no, if you think that your dog loves chewing a tad too much.
AWOOF Snuffle Mat
No dog toy collection is complete without a comfort toy. So, if you need something cozy that can hold your dog’s treats, the AWOOF Snuffle Mat will prove useful. You can use it with or without kibbles.
This toy requires your dog to use its nose to look for treats hidden within the many layers of felt. Or, they could roll over it and relax on the textured cloth when bored.
Features
This snuffle mat is constructed with environmentally friendly felt and can be used as a bowl or mat simply by adjusting the drawstring attached to the edges.
The mat also features a non-slip bottom that prevents it from moving while your dog snuffles through it. It measures 9.45 x 7.48 x 3.15 inches.
To use the snuffle mat, unfold the mat flat and spread kibbles or treats over it (avoid wet food).
Pros
- Easy to clean.
- Portable design.
- Machine-washable.
- Helps relieve stress.
- Encourages slow eating habits.
- Stimulates mental and physical function.
- No stomach upsets with accidental ingestion.
- Trains your dog’s smell and encourages foraging skills.
- Multi-purpose; can be folded into a bowl or used as a mat.
Cons
- Susceptible to chewing.
- The drawstring clasp can be a choking hazard.
- Aggressive chewers may shorten its durability.
- Hand-wash is more suitable for the intricate design of the mat.
Verdict
The AWOOF Snuffle Mat can be a sanctuary of treats and an object of comfort. But because it contains a lot of felt layers, aggressive eaters can quickly end their lifetime. Nonetheless, it can make an excellent toy when you cannot keep your dog company.
While the mat may not last long, it still provides your dog with the entertainment (and kibbles) it needs. Should you buy it? That depends on whether you’re willing to spend a few dollars (yes, it doesn’t cost much) to make your pup feel relaxed despite knowing it won’t last too long.
Buying The Best Dog Toys To Keep Them Busy For Hours
Proper research is always advantageous when buying anything new. And regardless of whether you’re a beginner or a professional dog parent, here are some areas to consider when buying a toy for your canines:
- Size And Weight
Buying toys in a size that fits your dog is essential whenever making a purchase. If the toy is too small, your dog may accidentally swallow it and experience an airway blockage.
And if the toy is too big, your dog will probably use it as a pillow rather than play with it. An ideal size would be something that easily fits in your dog’s mouth but is not too small that it becomes easy to swallow. It should also be easy for your dog to hold between its paws when lying down.
Large breed dogs can get away with just about any weight of toys. It’s the small dogs you need to watch out for; they may find heavy toys difficult to carry around and even withdraw from playing with them.
- Material
Dogs are prone to swallowing parts or whole of their toy, so learning everything about the products’ manufacturing is essential. You want to ensure the toys are made of non-abrasive materials such as natural rubber and nylon. Definitely stay away from anything metal or cheap plastic. Fabric toys like plushies need to be given only under your supervision.
The inner material or filling is equally important as the outer material. Because when the toys eventually come apart (as all toys are destined to), they may swallow them, sometimes causing blockage of the airway and bowel obstructions.
- Design And Safety
Toys with small removable parts are always a no-no when considering aggressive chewers. Even a moderate chewer may detach the parts with time and swallow them, meaning more visits to the vet.
Toys with a convenient design and minimal attachments are safer for your dogs. You can also consider getting something with grooves so your dog finds it easy to lift up.
Most toys have a recommended age mentioned on their labels; taking note of this could significantly improve your purchases. And if the toys come with small removable parts like ribbons and straps, remove them before letting your dog play with the toy.
- Quality And Budget
If you’ve been a dog parent for quite a while, you’re probably aware of how much you spend on them. And if you add it all up, several cheap toys will ultimately set you back in the long run. So, always choose quality over quantity, even if it costs a little extra for one product.
One way to do this is by only buying from trusted brands that guarantee product quality. You can also try feeling the toy by yourself before buying it; this is one advantage of shopping off the computer, especially when buying a new product.
- Warranty
What better way to ensure the credibility of a website/product than a warranty that the brand offers? Before you complete the purchasing process of any toy, try looking into the types of warranty available.
Sometimes the warranty will cover costs relating to the wear and tear of the product. Or, it may offer a lifetime guarantee, with a free exchange of products excluding postage charges.
But above all, when a product has a promising warranty, you know right away that its quality is top-notch, and you’ll spend lesser in the long run.
FAQs
What Is The Purpose Of A Dog Toy?
Dog toys have many purposes. They serve as distractions when your dog destroys things around the house. The toys also help prevent separation anxiety and boredom, which may negatively affect their mental state.
At What Age Should I Start Giving Toys To My Dogs?
When puppies start teething, they will be interested in chewing things around the house. For most dogs, this starts when they’re around 4 to 6 weeks of age; this is when you should consider buying them some toys.
Should You Leave Your Dog Toys Out All the Time?
Toys that are suitable for specific occasions should be properly stored. But most dogs have a favorite toy, so always keep it out for them to use throughout the day.
What Kind Of Toys Are Safe For Dogs?
Toys with minimal small parts/attachments and rounded edges are safe for dogs. Toys made with cotton, nylon, and natural rubber are some of the best materials. But you can check if the labels have any materials banned by the FDA to see if they contain anything harmful.
What Kind Of Toys Are Best For Dogs With Sensitive Gums?
Plushies or soft toys made of natural rubber are suitable for dogs with sensitive gums. Avoid giving them anything hard like wood (which may cause splinters), hard rubber, or metal until the gums are strong and healthy again.
What If My Dog Swallows Parts Of A Toy?
It should be okay if your dog swallows only a small portion of cotton or felt. If it’s anything other than that, immediately visit a vet. It’s better to be safe than sorry because dogs have sensitive respiratory systems.
Why Doesn’t My Dog Play With Toys Anymore?
Sometimes, older dogs could experience a canine cognitive dysfunction, making them withdraw from playing. If this happens, you should consult a vet. Another reason could be your dog is probably bored of the old toys, and maybe it’s time to get a new one.
How Many Toys Should A Dog Have?
Ten is a good number of toys that every dog should have. Consider getting them in different materials and themes and rotate them now and then.
What Is The Best Material For A Dog Toy?
Rubber is the strongest material for dog toys, particularly reinforced natural rubber. They will withstand the strength of power chewers, unlike any other material.
What Age Will My Dog Stop Destroying Toys?
Most dogs stop destroying toys after 12 to 18 months of age. However, the behavior may persist in some dogs, which is completely normal.
Bottom Line
Dogs love attention, and the toys we’ve recommended will be useful when you cannot entertain them.
The treat dispensers will provide them with treats and prevent separation anxiety while boosting their mental and physical skills. Moreover, the interactive designs will ensure that your dog is wholly preoccupied with the toys to not realize the passage of time.
If you’re uncertain of where to start, try the Kong Wobble Treat Dispenser as the first option. Most dogs will love playing with it without getting frustrated. And if you find that it is too easy a game for your canine, try leveling up the challenge by getting a Buster Cube Feeder.
Regardless of what toy attracts you most, it is up to your dog to decide whether to play with it. So, always examine your dog’s habits before buying a toy.
Some of My Favorite Products For Dog Owners
I hope this article has helped you just a bit in everyday life as a dog owner. Being a dog owner for more than 25 years myself, I’ve tried an abundance of different products with varying success, but these products below are some that I can highly recommend to every dog and their owner without hesitation!
These links are affiliate links, so if you do end up using the links, I will earn a commission. But it’s products that I use daily myself, and I have nothing but praise for.
Dog Food: Every dog needs to eat correctly, and finding the best food for your dog can be hard, as the market is absolutely flooded with products. But since 2015 when the company was founded, I’ve been using Ollie Petfood. With their product being tailor-made to suit every dog’s specific needs, and as my dogs absolutely love the product, I’m pretty sure I’ve found a product I will continue to use for many years more. If you use my link you can get 50% off your first order.
Dog Training: If you’ve ever owned a puppy, you know that they require a lot of training to grow into a well-behaved adult. Brain Training for Dogs has helped me immensely with the mental training part of raising a dog, and it’s something I strongly recommend you consider.
Grooming: If you have a dog in your home, you’re going to need a brush, and for this, I recommend a Hertzko Self-Cleaning Slicker Brush. For that price, you simply can’t beat this brush for everyday grooming.
If you’re looking for the most up-to-date recommendations, check out my recommended products section that I’ve created to help every dog owner!
