Our canine friend needs to play with us, but also, we must bear in mind that they are intelligent animals, which can get very bored when they have nothing to do. One way to get them to have fun, and learn to think for themselves, is by letting them play with interactive toys.
But we cannot give you just any one, as there are four levels of difficulty and it is always better to start with the easiest. So if you wonder how to choose an interactive toy for my dog, here you have the answer.
What you should know before buying an interactive toy
These toys are specially designed to stimulate the dog's mind and its canine well-being and activity. But we can't leave him alone at no time, because you need us. The human must encourage his friend to carry out the task, to help him if necessary, so that the dog feels like doing it and enjoys his interactive toy.
It is important that be patientNot all dogs learn at the same pace. For example, puppies usually learn faster because their brains act like sponges, absorbing everything quickly, while older dogs take longer due to their age; check the basic puppy care.
Practical usage tips: conduct short sessions (5-10 minutes), finish when you are still motivated and rotate the toys to maintain interest. Observe signs of stress (continuous yawning, licking, avoiding play) and reduces the difficulty if they appear. licking toys They help to calm (ideal for sensitive dogs or those with separation anxiety).
How to choose an interactive toy for your dog
In pet stores you will find a wide variety of interactive toys. Choosing one can be quite a difficult task, although from my own experience I recommend you start with a simple oneFor example, one where dry feed is inserted and then the animal has to roll it out; see also the best dog toys.
A little later, you could start to complicate things a bit. Instead of a ball, what you will have to do now is use your nose to know where the pellet of feed is, and with your mouth (or with your paw) you will have to remove the piece to find itOnce your dog has mastered this toy (like the two at the bottom of the image above), it gets a little more challenging. You can get an interactive tower-shaped toy with inserts and cones for putting food in; look... preference and security keys.
I'm sure you'll like it you will pass very, very good  ..
Key selection criteria (size, material, age and energy)
- SizeChoose a toy big enough to avoid choking and to make it manageable according to your dog's mouth (special attention to mini breeds and puppies).
- Material: prioritize natural rubber or non-toxic plastics. Latex is gentle for puppies; compounds like Zogoflex Dense rubber is more resistant to strong bites. Avoid pieces that detach easily. Check out safe toys for your dog..
- Age and energyPuppies and seniors benefit from levels 1-2 and soft or licking surfaces. Active adults may progress to levels 2-3-4 with more complex mechanical and olfactory challenges.
Types of interactive toys and how to arrange them by levels
- Simple dispensers (level 1): wobbly bowl or maze balls that release croquettes as they roll. They also function as slow feeder to improve digestion and reduce voraciousness.
- Motherboards/towers with disks (level 2): rotating layers and holes that catch prizesThe dog must lick, push, and twist to release the food. Excellent for mental stimulation sustained.
- Tables with drawers and tabs (level 3): require slide and lift locksWorking on nose and paws with precision. Ideal for dogs already accustomed to puzzles.
- Advanced challenges (level 4): they combine sequences (turn, pull tab, slide) and impulse control. Use these once you've mastered the previous levels to avoid frustration.
Popular examples that fit these profiles include wobbly bowls feeder type, rotating discs multi-layered, balls with an internal maze y puzzles with 9 drawersYou can also incorporate lick mats for calming sessions or as support on rainy days.
Additional benefits and when to use them
- Dental hygieneTeethers with textures help to remove plaque and tartar (without replacing brushing).
- Stress management: the toys of lamido and searching reduce anxiety and channel energy.
- Prevention of destructive behaviors: occupy the mind and redirect the need to chew (to prevent the dog from chewing my things).
- Human-dog bondMany games require your guidance, reinforcing the cooperation.
Other useful types and recommended materials
- Plush toys: soft and comforting (for calm or supervised dogs).
- Search and shoot toysballs, frisbees and ropes for physical expenditure and self-control (let it win sometimes).
- Teethers: satisfy the chewing instinctAvoid extreme hardness that could fracture teeth; antlers They must be chosen for their appropriate size and hardness.
- Materials: plush and latex for soft bites; natural rubber and technical compounds for strong chewers. Always check that they are non toxic.
Small dogs and puppies: fine-tuning
For small dogs, choose toys light and the size of their mouth. The thin strings And mini balls prevent jaw overload. For puppies, prioritize soft textures that relieve teething pain and puzzles level 1-2 with frequent reinforcement. A simple home remedy is a cardboard roll with holes and I think inside, always under supervision.
How to introduce the toy and mistakes to avoid
- Positive presentation: show the toy, let them sniff it, and place visible treats at the start.
- Stepped assistance: guides by hand, easily removes blockages and reinforces with voice and awards.
- Progression: when you master it, go up a level. Don't advance if there is frustration or disinterest.
- Evita small parts in powerful dogs, dubious materials (see dangerous toys for dogs), long sessions without a break and discard the toy if it is broken.
Choosing well means combining proper level, safe material y guided routineStart easy, observe your dog and progress with challenges that make him think and enjoy: this way you will achieve a more balanced, relaxed and happy dog ​​with his interactive toys.