How To Choose The Best Puzzle Toys Right For Your Dog

Source: DHgate, Tag: Pets

When we talk of puzzle toys for dogs, we are in no way talking of jigsaw puzzles that we play. You’re here to understand how to select that dog puzzle toys.

• Dogs are more intelligent than we think. You can train them to do anything, from understanding your language and obeying you to playing with dog puzzle toys.
  Now when we talk of puzzle toys for dogs, we are in no way talking of jigsaw puzzles that we play with! No, these are different toys that are designed especially for dogs to understand and play with. To be more specific, it’s little puppies who’ll enjoy it more, but grown-up dogs also love to play all day.

• What you’re giving them are toys that they can play with with their paws or mouth. They’re interactive in nature and keep your pet occupied when you’re busy or not around them. I won’t tell you any specific puzzles that you should get for your dog. You’re here to understand how to select dog puzzle toys.
  So, let’s take a look at the factors that you need to consider when buying dog puzzle toys for your pet.
  Safety First
  Usually, all dog toys are made with their safety kept in mind. Still, as per their age, you need to understand what might or swallow. Make sure nothing is pointy that could hurt your pet’s skin. If your pet is really small, go for something absolutely basic as puppies are more vulnerable to swallowing or chewing something inedible.
  Start with Easy and Go Slow

• If you’re buying your dog a puzzle toy for the first time, you’re going to take a while to teach him or her how to use it. So, you buy the easiest one available in the market. Unlike humans, you don’t really have puzzles designed according to the dog’s age. If your dog’s a grown-up and has never played with a puzzle toy, you need to give him the same as you would give a puppy first.
  Actually, Age Still Does Count
  A grown-up dog is at least aware of what is meant for him to eat and what is not edible. Puppies are just like babies – they could try anything. Moreover, you need to consider the size and strength of your pet – which largely depends on his age. You can’t give a toy to a puppy that eventually makes him trip or break his tooth trying to chew it.
  Get the Kind Where You Can Hide Actual Rewards
  A kid is happy when he just knows he won or did it. However, when it comes to a dog, things work differently. If he’s playing in one place, you need to give him a puzzle toy where he has to find something. You need to incentivize them to encourage him to play in the first place. So, you hide his favourite food – whatever he enjoys having the most inside these puzzles so that he enjoys.

• The Toy Can’t be Bigger Than the Dog!
  Size is very important – not just for the dog’s safety, but also for convenience. Your dog should be comfortable playing with the toy, not swallow or eat anything and be able to lift or drag it. If it’s a really small puppy, a big toy would be heavy for him to use. So, do consider the size and strength of your dog before you buy him a toy.
  Consider Potty Training
  On one hand, you want your pet to be engaged. However, if your dog isn’t very well-trained with going to the bathroom every time he needs to pee or poop, then don’t give him toys that are too engaging or will make him lazy to go to the loo. In short, a puzzle toy shouldn’t make him pee on the floor right there – we all hate cleaning that kind of a mess.
  Consider How Often Would He Actually Play with Them
  This depends on two things – how often you can’t play with him and how much he will eventually enjoy playing with a puzzle at a stretch. Animals prefer being more active. If you ever take a look at street dogs early in the morning, you’ll see them running and racing on an empty street. That’s how they enjoy playing more – actively running and jumping around. However, if you’re not going to be around for long, he’ll need a toy that can engage him for longer.
  You Don’t Have to Cross Your Budget
  Remember, your dog isn’t demanding a toy from you, you’re giving it willingly. Your dog isn’t going to come to the store with you and select his own toy – none of them can be trained to that extent. So, set your budget and don’t cross it because the salesman swayed you into buying something fun and interactive. Make your choice wisely.

• Summary
  In a way, when you’re buying a puzzle toy for your pet dog, safety is a major factor you consider in any way. Another thing you consider is the convenience and comfort that particularly your dog would have with the toy. You need to consider your dog’s age, training, and experience with toys when you buy him one.
  The breed of the dog plays a major role in what kind of toy he might enjoy. That’s because they all have a different nature, a different energy level, and even have a difference in the strength of their teeth.
  Some dogs are more friendly and playful in nature. Others might need the incentive of food to play puzzles. Some might play for hours while others might leave it once they’ve taken out all their treats from the game.
  The bottom line is that you need to know your pet before you buy dog puzzle toys. Only you can tell what your dog will actually enjoy playing with more, particularly when you’re not around or can’t give him attention.
  We have shared how to choose puzzle toys right for your dog, next we will introduce you to the best top 5 dog puzzle toys in 2020.