The Best Enrichment Toys for Every Dog

Introduction

Not all enrichment toys are created equal! Some are great for mental stimulation, others for physical engagement, and some provide a mix of both. In this post, we’ll break down the best enrichment toys based on their function, durability, and engagement level.

If you’re still learning about the different types of enrichment, check out:
📖 The 4 Types of Dog Enrichment & How to Use Them

Best Enrichment Toys by Category

Best Wobble & Treat Dispensing Toys

Food-based enrichment taps into a dog's natural foraging instincts while providing a challenge. These toys are perfect for keeping dogs occupied, slowing down eating, and engaging their problem-solving skills.

• West Paw Toppl Toy – Great for freezing treats and spreading soft foods. (Buy it here 🛍️)
• Pupsicle & Molds – Refillable treat-dispensing toy that can be frozen for extended engagement. (Buy it here 🛍️)
• Sodapup Honey Pot – A durable, food-dispensing toy that encourages licking and chewing. (Buy it here 🛍️)
• Sodapup Dice Treat Dispensing Toy – Perfect for mealtime fun and interactive feeding. (Buy it here🛍️)

Pro Tip: Freeze food in bone broth, yogurt, or peanut butter inside these toys for a longer-lasting challenge.

‍Best Lick Mats & Slow Feeders

‍Lick mats and slow feeders provide a calming experience by encouraging dogs to lick, which can help reduce stress and slow down eating.

• Lickimat Buddy – Helps slow down eating and reduces anxiety. (Buy it here 🛍️)
• Sodapup Honeycomb Mat – Textured for extra licking engagement. (Buy it here 🛍️)

Pro Tip: Spread peanut butter, pumpkin, or yogurt on lick mats and freeze for a longer-lasting treat.

‍Best Snuffle Toys & Scent Work

‍Scent-based enrichment encourages natural foraging and tracking behaviors, helping dogs engage their strongest sense—their nose!

• Snuffle Mat – Encourages dogs to sniff and forage for hidden treats. (Buy it here 🛍️)
• Snuffle Ball – A fun, portable scent-based game that keeps dogs engaged. (Buy it here 🛍️)
• Scent Work Kit – Designed for training a dog’s nose work skills with essential oils. (Buy it here 🛍️)

Pro Tip: Use high-value treats (like freeze-dried liver) to increase engagement in scent games.

‍Best Slow Feeders & Puzzle Boards

‍Puzzle feeders engage problem-solving skills while slowing down eating and preventing gulping.

• Outward Hound Slow Feeder Bowl – Helps prevent bloating and indigestion. (Buy it here 🛍️)
• Outward Hound Mini Slow Feeder Bowl – A great option for small breeds and puppies. (Buy it here 🛍️)
• Outward Hound Puzzle Board – A fun problem-solving game for meal times. (Buy it here 🛍️)

Pro Tip: If your dog gets frustrated with puzzles, start with easier versions and gradually increase the challenge.

‍Best Interactive Toys & Herding Games

‍Interactive play builds confidence, strengthens the human-dog bond, and satisfies instincts like chasing, herding, and pulling.

• Outward Hound Flirt Pole – Encourages chase and prey-drive play for high-energy dogs. (Buy it here 🛍️)
• Outward Hound Flirt Pole for Puppies & Small Dogs – A more lightweight version for smaller breeds. (Buy it here 🛍️)
• Plush Rope Tug Toy – Soft but durable, great for interactive tug-of-war games. (Buy it here 🛍️)
• Herding Ball – Perfect for herding breeds that love pushing and chasing. (Buy it here 🛍️)

Pro Tip: Always supervise tug-of-war games and ensure your dog has a reliable “drop it” command to play safely.