The Best 20 Interactive Dog Toys to Keep them Busy (Review)

Most of our pets’ lives are spent playing and having a good time, so we must ensure their activities are fun and safe.

The most suitable interactive toys are a way to have fun and an essential tool for training puppies and younger dogs. Besides, toys can help cope with certain situations — for example, they can play a role in those who suffer from stress or anxiety, are going through a period of change, or have been adopted by new owners.

Dog Toys for Mental Stimulation Reviews

Remember that games must be present in their daily routine for your pet to be thrilled and well-behaved.

1. Trixie Activity Gambling Tower Dog Toy

This product is made of durable plastic that can withstand dog bites. It is an ideal choice for intelligent dogs. It has a solid foundation allows it to stay upright even during the game. During the game, the pet uses its sense of smell to detect food in the toy and then thinks and decides how to get it. To get a reward, the dog must pull the ropes. There are three holes for treats at the toy base, closed with plastic cones with a hole. The kit includes a training booklet with tips and recommendations.

Key benefits:

• To get the treats, the dog has to pull out the drawers in the correct order.
• It creates mental stimulation.
• Rubber feet to prevent sliding
• Instruction booklet included for tips.

2. Kong Puppy Toy

This product is an excellent choice to prevent boredom. It is an original toy that successfully launched the Kong Puppy product line, created using a unique teething rubber formula. It is recommended to fill this product with treats.

The toy’s movements during rolling are unpredictable, allowing for hours of fun. A hole on the side will enable you to place treats inside the toy, and as your pet rolls it around on the floor, it eventually gets pleasure.

Your pet can interact with this dispenser to play and get treats in several ways. Toss it in the air, run it around the floor, or nudge it forward with its nose or mouth. The product is so well-liked by dogs that many will just carry it around and chew it.

Key benefits:

• Unpredictable bounce is excellent for energetic puppies.
• It helps establish appropriate chewing and playing behaviors.
• Made from globally sourced materials.

3. Trixie Activity Turn Around Dog Toy

This product, designed specifically for medium and large breeds, throws balls automatically instead of you having to do so. It will allow your pet to engage in physical activity and exercise without you independently.

All you have to do is turn on the toy, select the launch distance, and then put a tennis ball in the toy. Soon your pet will learn to throw it on its own, stimulating its mind and allowing it to play independently. It is powered by a built-in battery that can be recharged, allowing you to use it anywhere.

Key benefits:

• There are numerous ways to interact.
• Dog must move the turning elements to release treats.
• It will stimulate curiosity and problem-solving skills.

4. Hyper Pet Raccoon Critter Skinz Dog Toy

These are stuffed animal toys with squeakers. Squeakers inside the animal’s head are a real plus and help to capture attention. During an entertaining game, they also help to clean the teeth.

When you turn on the toy, it will wiggle and move for about 10 seconds before stopping. As soon as you or your dog shake it again, it will come back to life and move to attract attention better.

It requires power from three AAA batteries (not included). Since the toy automatically turns off when your pet stops playing with it, the batteries should last for a long time.

It is only available in one standard size, but it should work well for medium to large breeds. There are also spare covers in case your dog breaks the cover while playing.

Key benefits:

• This plush toy squeaks, wiggles, vibrates and barks.
• The motion-activated toy turns on whenever someone shakes.
• On/Off button on this product is located on the top of the plastic ball.

5. iFetch Too Automatic Ball Launcher Dog Toy

This product designed specifically for medium and large breeds throws balls automatically instead of you having to do so. It will allow your pet to engage in physical activity and exercise without you independently.

All you have to do is turn on the toy, select the launch distance, and then put a tennis ball in the toy. Soon your pet will learn to throw it on its own, which stimulates its mind and allows it to play entirely independently.It is powered by a built-in battery that can be recharged, giving you the ability to use it anywhere.

Powered by a built-in battery that can be recharged, giving you the ability to use it anywhere.

Key benefits:

• You can still interact with your pet while using the machine.
• Sturdy — three pounds, so it is not easy for your pet to lift.
• The automatic ball launcher is explicitly designed for small to medium-sized breeds.

6. Wickedbone

The wicked one is a great way to stimulate the mind and provide the exciting exercises they need.

You can directly control this bone-shaped device from your mobile phone and play with your pet indoors and outdoors. The product in the form of a bone can ride and move under the user’s control and a smartphone. It is powered by a battery that can be recharged, and replacement tires are included.

Key benefits:

• It responds differently to moods and reactions.
• Suitable for Indoor & Outdoor Activities.
• Safe & Scratch-Resistant Materials.

7. Wicked Ball

Wicked Ball is a moving toy. It is designed with interactive, satisfying features that stimulate your pet’s hunting instincts and spark their enthusiasm and curiosity. This fantastic, comforting toy will allow your pet to have fun even when you are not around. The ball surfaces are easy to change, and the battery is recharged in 1 hour for 8 hours of play.

Key benefits:

• 100% Automatic Moving.
• 3 Interaction Modes To Match Different Activity Levels.
• 1-Hour Charge for 8-Hour play.

8. PetSafe Ricochet Interactive Sound Game Dog Toy

These round toys in the form of a large pill may seem strange initially but do not judge the toy by its appearance. This product from Petsafe is a fun set that will make your dog play and search for it in different places. When your puppy pushes one toy, the other makes a distinctive squeak.

Then, when your buddy turns to explore the second toy, the sound reverts to the first toy. The pet will love trying to catch the sound. And from up to 30 feet (9.14 m) away, you can see your dog running from one side of the house to the other. You can make the game even more enjoyable by hiding one toy and sending your pet on a hunt for a mysterious sound throughout the house or apartment.

Key benefits:

• See your pooch run back and forth as he tries to ‘catch’ the squeak.
• Ricochet is mentally stimulating and challenging.
• The Ricochet should offer about a month of daily play before it’s time for more juice.

9. Brick Interactive Puzzle Dog Toy

An interactive brick puzzle toy with 3 different edible reward features for dogs with easy-to-open / close folding compartments where you can hide edible treats. Separate removable compartments of the puzzle come in the shape of a bone — an exciting task for finding and eating treats.

Your dog can quickly move each cell to reveal even more hidden treats. Your family friend will have a great time solving this tricky food puzzle. Great for restless dogs and helps entertain bored pets by helping prevent aggressive or destructive behavior. To clean it, remove all the treats and wash with warm soapy water, rinse and dry. When playing with toys, it is necessary to look after pets, as no toy is completely indestructible.

Key benefits:

• This treat training dog game occupies anxious minds.
• It entertains dogs when they become bored.
• It helps prevent destructive behaviors.

10. ZippyPaws Zippy Burrow Hedgehog Den Hide and Seek Puzzle Dog Toy

This chic puzzle game is simple: you stuff adorable plush little squeaky hedgehogs into a very soft tree trunk and watch your pet pull them out individually. The dog sticks its muzzle in and prowls around, looking for a soft squeaky hedgehog to get for you. Then shove them back, and the dog will repeat the process. This product is exciting and easy to use. Great for pets on a diet as the game does not use treats.

Key benefits:

• It comes with one burrow and three squeaky hedgehogs.
• Designed for small and medium breeds.
• Available in multiple sizes.

11. Outward Hound Hide N Slide Puzzle for Dogs

It will bring a lot of fun to your puppy. Simply hide the treats in the structure’s compartments and watch as your dog learns to pull out the treats hidden inside.

Key benefits:

• Games present your pet with more interesting ways to problem solve.
• This dog game has built in play pieces that don’t come out when your pet plays with it.
• It helps to keep this product intact.

12. Tcd Toy Ringer Horseshoe

This durable nylon toy is excellent for your pet’s dental hygiene. Also, it will withstand the onslaught of even the most vigorous chewers. You can combine it with treats.

Key benefits:

• Free of latex, vinyl, and phthalates.
• Any food can be used.
• It can also fit sideways between the outer wall and inner loop.

13. JW Twist-In Treats Dog Toy

It will help your pet spend its seemingly limitless energy reserves. The product will satisfy the chewing instinct 100%. A variety of textures and squeakers will make playing with your dog even more fun.

This product is made of durable, non-toxic rubber that can withstand even the most severe bites. The treats that come with the toy are made in the United States from high-quality ingredients with a delicious taste that all dogs like. There are three sizes available: small, medium, and large.

Key benefits:

• Stands up to rough play and easy to grip.
• Non-toxic rubber.
• Helps to make treat time last longer.

14. West Paw Zogoflex Qwizl Dog Puzzle Treat Toy

It is designed to stimulate mental abilities. Just put your dog’s favorite treat inside and let him have fun. The product is available in different colors: Tangerine, Aqua Blue, and Granny Smith as well as in small and large sizes.

Key benefits:

• Long-lasting chew toy.
• Challenging puzzle for even the smartest dogs.
• Completely safe.

15. Patchwork Pet Lenny Greybar

It is for active dogs who like to grab everything with their teeth. The product contains a strong rope that your puppy can pull in different directions. Made of soft, durable fabric.

Key benefits:

• Made with a reinforced lining for long-lasting games.
• Made of soft fabrics.
• This product is for tugging.

16. Kong Floppy Knots Dog Toy

It will help your pet spend its seemingly limitless energy reserves. It is great for fun. The product will satisfy chewing instinct 100%. A variety of textures and squeakers will make playing with your dog even more fun.

Key benefits:

• Made with knotted rope and squeaker.
• Entices your furry friend to play with varied textures.
• To satisfy the natural instincts to chew and the need for noise stimulation.

17. Patchwork Pet Lobster

It contains squeakers and a soft canvas rope that will satisfy chewing instinct. The outer material is very strong and resistant to jerks. Perfect for those who like to cuddle with toys.

Key benefits:

• Minimal stuffing means less mess.
• Entices your furry friend to play with varied textures.
• Features internal knotted rope with a realistic feel.

18. iFetch Frenzy Interactive Brain Game Uses Tennis Balls

Entertain your pet with the smart game iFetch Frenzy. Your puppy has the opportunity to become independent with this product. Just train to throw the ball at the top of Frenzy, and it will soon be playing on its own.

Key benefits:

• Great choice for small to medium-sized breeds.
• Great for clever pets who bore easily.
• Great for anxious dogs or those with a noise aversion.

19. Chuckit! Classic Launcher Dog Toy

Classic Ball Launcher for active dogs will help you throw the ball far away without much effort. You no longer have to bend over and touch the slobbery ball. Just grab the convenient handle, push the ball and let it fly. Ideal for parks and large open spaces.

Key benefits:

• It includes one ball for hours of fun with your pup.
• It features an ergonomic handle for ultimate comfort and control.
• It hands- free pickup so you don’t have to touch any more puppy drool.

20. iDogmate Smart Automatic Dog Ball Launcher Toy

This device will be able to entertain your pet on its own while you are going about your daily life. Also, it is available in three sizes. This launcher is powered by an AC adapter (included) or a lithium-ion battery (included), which can last up to a whopping 250 launches when fully charged.

Key benefits:

• Great for anxious dogs or those with a noise aversion.
• Great for clever pets who bore easily.
• Light up settings on the Ball Launcher.

*Ratings are formed by the author and editor of the article based on their own research and combined with customer reviews.

Our Final Verdict

The right choice of the products we reviewed is considered an Interactive Wickedbone Toy with App Support. This electronic device will independently entertain your dog while you are doing important things. However, if you want to participate in the game, you can connect to the system and control the toy remotely. It is durable and safe and can easily hold your dog’s attention for hours.

Benefits of Interactive Dog Toys

As well as providing hours of fun, interactive toys can help develop intelligence, hone skills, and serve as a tool for reducing anxiety. Certain chew toys will help satisfy a dog’s hunting needs and naturally reduce stress. Balls and other chase toys help satisfy a dog’s hunting drive and provide exercise. These dogs also serve to strengthen bonds with the owner. ^[1]

For a dog’s life to be complete and well-rounded, many needs must be met: olfactory, visual, gustatory, tactile, and mental stimulation must all be provided, and it is essential not to neglect any of these areas. This is necessary for all dogs, regardless of age, breed, and size.

The provision of both mental and physical activity and positive interaction with the owner ensures a puppy will develop correctly, and the behavior of an adult dog will be pleasant and predictable. We aim to avoid a situation whereby a dog will start looking for new experiences; running away on a walk, picking up edible and inedible items on the street, or even destroying the house.

Responsible breeders of dogs always work with puppies as soon as they begin to take an interest in the world around them, gradually introducing new smells, objects, and surfaces into their lives. This helps the animal adapt faster and feel more confident, which will positively affecting how they respond to and interact with the outside world.

Since the dog is an ingenious and quick-witted animal, it needs to be provided with lots of interaction, ensuring its physical and psychological needs will be fully met. For this purpose, back in 1993, the famous Swedish breeder Nina Ottoson came up with a new entertainment for her pets — interactive toys that are now widely used worldwide. With their help, dogs become more active and mobile. They can develop their concentration and resourcefulness. You need to choose the most appropriate toys for your dog, taking into account the pet’s characteristics and interests. To begin with, it is better to buy a more straightforward toy at first, gradually offering your pet more complex ones as they learn how to use them effectively. This avoids frustration and toys being wholly ignored.

The advantages of such toys include:

• Providing mental stimulation;
• A safe diversion (no sharp corners or small parts);
• The ability to capture attention and, as a result, to break bad habits (for example, chewing everything).
• An opportunity to save the environment! Many interactive toys are now made from eco-friendly materials (rubber, latex, wood, and others);

Besides, such the most suitable stimulating toys can really captivate the pet, and instead of ruining the house’s furniture in the absence of the owners, the dog will calmly play and peacefully while away their time. Interactive toys also help to burn off excess energy: after a long day of playing with interactive toys, dogs should sleep soundly.^[3]

Tips to Choose the Right Interactive Dog Toy

• When choosing, it is essential to consider your pet’s characteristics: its age, size, and play style. Try to remember: does your dog prefer to carry various objects, chew them, sniff them out, or bury them?
• When choosing a toy for a puppy, first and foremost, pay attention to its safety. Buy only those toys designed for pups. Soft toys for children may contain foam, plastic, and small parts that can injure their esophagus or cause poisoning when ingested. So if you have children, try not to let the puppy play with their toys.
• Toys must be made of safe, non-toxic materials that do not have an unpleasant smell. It is great to buy products made of latex, rubber, wood, or vinyl. Check their integrity regularly: if you find that your puppy’s toy is damaged, be sure to replace it. Importantly, you should not allow the dog to swallow the chewed off parts — this can lead to gastrointestinal tract problems and even life-threatening obstruction.
• As your pup grows up growing, their interests and toys will inevitably change. For puppies who are teething, you need to buy a few strong rubber bones. They will ease the associated discomfort and, perhaps, save a pair of favorite sneakers. Older dogs will benefit from more complex toys that engage their brain and pose a challenge.

READ MORE: Why is my Dog acting like a Puppy again?

Types of Interactive Dog Toys

A logical toy is often a ball or cube with holes in which you can put a treat. Food puzzles can be solved by the dog pressing a button, pulling a string, or sliding the lid with their paw to get to the delicious “prize.” More complex food toys can include ropes for tug-of-war and pyramids with holes in which the treat is located. There are also more advanced toys with the opening of certain components, in which the pet must put the bar itself.

You need to choose the right one that will fit your pet. It should not fit entirely into the mouth to prevent it from being swallowed or choked on. It is also necessary to make sure that the dog does not eat pieces of material, as this may cause an intestinal blockage.^[2]

The market is quite large and is divided into several main categories:

• For gnawing (various rubber toys and with squeakers)
• For gums and teeth (bones, sticks, balls of various textures)
• For training (balls, dumbbells, rings, ropes)
• Interactive puzzles
• Electric — which incorporate some of great choices to keep them busy
• Soft

READ MORE: Best Food for Large Breed Dogs

A dog’s Personality and their Perfect Interactive Toy

It is essential to choose an interactive toy that meshes well with a unique character. Fortunately for pet owners, many interactive toys are currently available. You can easily find the one that is perfect for your pet.

In addition to these general recommendations, there are a few other things you should keep in mind when choosing the right one.

When buying a toy, the owner must take into account the size of the animal. The primary rule here is that it should fit the mouth’s size, but not fit inside wholly.

For Small and Medium Breeds

• For small breeds, you should choose small balls on a rope or rubber with spikes, strong mini-ropes, as well as medium-hard dumbbells, mini pullers, puzzles, and various soft toys.
• Before a new toy falls into their furry paws, make sure that no hazards could harm your pet.
• Be aware that there are potential dangers posed by certain toy parts such as ribbons, bows, toy noses and eyes, loosely closed batteries, etc. — these items are easy to swallow, and they can get stuck in the throat.

For Large Breeds

• Such dogs are distinguished by impressive physical strength and strong grip, so preference should be given to durable toys that will not crumble from the jaws’ powerful pressure. These are various silicone and rubber balls, dumbbells, and rings.
• Soft toys are suitable for calm, older pets who are not inclined to tear products apart and pull out the filler from them.
• For active dogs, ropes, Frisbees, and chew toys are suitable. If your pet is quite passive, try to interest them in toys with treats that have been created for the food aficionados out there.

All puppies are differed in temperament, so try to take into account a character. Some pups may be afraid of moving or noisy toys. If your dog has chewed more than one pair of shoes and eaten a table leg, do not scold it, but rather buy strong rubber toys that it can chew. If the dog is very energetic and will never give up a fun game, choose balls, Frisbees, or floating toys. ^[1]

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FAQ

Article Sources:

1. “Dog Toys and How to Use Them — Dumb Friends League.” Dumb Friends League, ddfl.org/resource/dog-toys-and-how-to-use-them/.
2. Negron, Vladimir. Can Dogs Eat Bones? Raw & Cooked Bones for Dogs. 8 Mar. 2011, m.petmd.com/dog/nutrition/evr_dg_raw_bones_or_cooked_bones.
3. “Fitness Buddies: Exercising With Your Dog Slideshow.” Pets WebMD, 22 Oct. 2018, pets.webmd.com/dogs/ss/slideshow-exercising-with-your-dog.