Introduction to Puzzle Toys
Puzzle toys are an awesome way to keep your pups brain (and stomach!) busy, when maybe physical exercise isn’t available. Dogs are hunters, scavengers and opportunists - they need to be given a job, or else they may find other things to occupy their time, which could involve destructive behavior. Similar to human puzzles, dog puzzles are meant to stimulate your pup’s intellect and incorporate problem-solving into their daily routine. These dog toys and games take on various forms, ranging from simple hide-and-seek, to interacting with everyday objects, such as lifting blocks, turning discs, sliding bricks or even digging in dirt - all of which are meant to challenge your dog mentally and cater to their love for play.
When it comes time to introduce a puzzle toy to your pup, the general rule is: Start easy, and gradually make it harder.
Many dogs will instinctively learn how to play with a puzzle toy on their own, but if needed, there are some ways you can help them out. One thing you can do is start them off with a toy that doesn't require much work or problem solving to get the treats out. This could be something they can nudge, or bat. Slowly introduce the toy to your pup by placing it on the floor, and letting your pup investigate it in their own time. Let them sniff, and investigate what this new fun activity toy is!
Don’t forget to reward your dog by showing interest in the toy by scattering treats around the toy when they get close, or move the toy. A great puzzle to start with is a snuffle mat or snuffle ball. We picked up a few great ones at Terrible Toby’s in Kitchener.
Once your pup has mastered the ‘easy’ puzzles, up the difficulty by using a toy that is a little less intuitive, and go from there. You might have to help your pup solve the puzzle to build up interest, but be patient - your pup will most likely figure it out in their own time, especially with delicious treats involved! Using high value treats to start will help build excitement around the puzzle toy, and get your pup begging for more.
If your pup is a quick learner, you can easily make simple toys a bit harder by:
Wrap the toy in a piece of paper
Hide the toy in a cardboard box
Use moist food in the toy
Freeze the filled toy
Suspend the frozen filled toy from a beam or branch to make a piñata
The beauty of dog puzzle games is that they can be introduced to any dog no matter their age, physical activity level or health situation. For puppies, it is important to start with games that are simple, short, and that require significant interaction with the owner, as well as positive feedback and praise.
For senior or injured dogs, you can reduce the strain of games by letting them work with their nose as opposed to having to move around their paws. You can find a great selection of puzzle toys at Terrible Toby’s, with their knowledgeable staff available to advise you on your first purchase!
We’re confident your pup will thank you for introducing these new fun toys to their routine!
Developed in a paid partnership with Terrible Toby’s.
