From frozen treats to tricky puzzles, here’s how to keep your smart pup engaged and entertained every day.
Living with a smart dog can feel like raising a little genius that’s always one step ahead of you. They somehow find a way to open doors, solve problems, and know the sound of the treat jar from three rooms away. But with big brains comes big responsibility. Without enough mental challenges, clever pups can quickly become frustrated or bored. Whether you’re working with a tight budget or want to invest in interactive toys that actually deliver, there are plenty of ways to keep your dog’s mind busy.
Mental stimulation doesn’t have to come with a hefty price tag. In fact, some of the best enrichment toys can be made with items you already have around the house. These quick DIY games can be great for rainy days or tight budgets. But as with any toys, be sure to supervise play and pick up small or breakable parts your dog could swallow.
Grab an old (clean) towel and a few of your dog’s favorite treats. Start by rolling the treats inside, knot the towel loosely, and place it in front of your dog. The point is to engage your dog’s natural desire to sniff and track. Once your dog gets the hang of things, they’ll have a blast using their nose and paws to unravel the fabric and sniff out their treats.
Before you toss that shipping box, make it your dog’s new favorite toy. Fill the box with crumpled paper, towels, or other safe packing materials, then hide a toy or treat inside. This is a great way to encourage natural foraging and scentwork. But don’t leave your pet unattended with this in case they start trying to eat the cardboard.
Perfect for those hot summer days—or for dogs who just love licking—these frozen snacks are easy to prep. Combine low-sodium broth (or water!) with bits of kibble, dog-safe fruits (like blueberries or apples without the skin), or even a smear of peanut butter. Pour the concoction into an ice cube tray, freeze, and give to your pup.
Since it’s frozen, it might take a while for your dog to get to the good stuff. But be aware that it might create a bit of a mess indoors, so opt for serving these outside if possible.
This one’s a hit for curious noses. Drop treats into the cups of a muffin tin, then cover each one with a tennis ball or similar-sized toy. Your pup will need to nudge, lift, and think their way to the reward.
➡️Avoid using synthetic fabrics or plastics that could splinter or fray. Stick with dog-safe materials like 100% cotton towels or BPA-free plastic if you’re repurposing household items.
“The most important thing when giving your dog any toy, whether it is homemade or not, is monitoring them to ensure they are not ingesting anything they shouldn't. If your dog eats things they should not, frozen snacks that are fully edible may be the safest option!” - Dr. Jennifer Schott
Puzzle toys tap into your dog’s natural problem-solving instincts. These toys challenge dogs to figure out how to unlock a hidden treat, and for smart pups, it’s the perfect combo of play and purpose.
If you’re wondering if these toys are worth it, think of it this way. These toys mimic the mental work dogs would’ve done in the wild while hunting or foraging. That’s why they’re especially great for working breeds like Border Collies and Australian Shepherds who need more than just physical activity to stay content. A few minutes a day with a puzzle toy can go a long way toward curbing boredom, reducing anxiety, and keeping destructive behaviors at bay.
Here are a few picks to consider, but be sure to read reviews to determine which will be the right fit for your pup:
Treat-dispensing toys keep your dog moving and thinking, but they’re not puzzles—they’re designed to make your pup work for their food. Whether it’s rolling, bouncing, or wobbling, the reward is simple: snacks.
These toys are a great way to slow down fast eaters, provide solo entertainment, and turn mealtime into a more active experience. You’ll find that these are ideal for high-energy dogs that need something to focus on when you're working or away from home.
Here are some of our top picks:
➡️Choose toys that match your dog’s chewing strength. Some treat toys are softer for light chewers, while others are built to withstand heavy gnawing.
With so many options out there, it’s easy to get overwhelmed but, choosing the right enrichment toy comes down to simply knowing your dog. Some love using their nose, while others prefer physical play or problem-solving.
At the end of the day, variety is key so rotating different types of toys throughout the week can prevent boredom and help your dog stay mentally sharp. A well-chosen toy not only entertains, but it supports your dog’s emotional well-being and can even ease anxiety or unwanted behaviors.
There are a few key things you should be looking at when choosing the right activities and enrichment for your dog:
