10 Best Interactive Dog Toys 2025 in the United States

The Outward Hound Hide A Squirrel Plush Dog Toy Puzzle, XL is designed to offer both fun and mental stimulation to dogs of all sizes. Its 2-in-1 design combines a plush dog puzzle with squeaky toys, promoting interactive play and keeping your dog engaged. The toy's plush texture is gentle on your dog's teeth and gums, making it suitable for puppies and adult dogs alike.

Measuring 12.25 x 7 x 7 inches and weighing 4.8 ounces, it is a good size for most breeds to handle comfortably. However, supervision is strongly recommended as the toy is not indestructible, and it should be replaced if damaged to prevent any safety risks. This aspect may limit its durability, particularly for more aggressive chewers.

The toy's interactive nature helps to satisfy natural hunting instincts and prevent boredom, but it may require regular inspection to ensure its longevity. Ease of cleaning might be a concern given its plush material, but its high engagement value and safety for supervised play make it a popular choice among pet owners.

The KONG Classic Stuffable Dog Toy is a great option for medium-sized dogs looking for a durable and engaging toy. Its natural rubber material is designed to withstand average chewers, making it a solid choice for most dogs. The toy's unpredictable bounce keeps dogs entertained and engaged during playtime, which can help address issues like boredom and excessive barking.

The hollow interior allows you to stuff it with treats, adding an extra challenge and keeping your pet occupied for longer periods. This feature also makes it versatile, as you can use various fillings like kibble or peanut butter to keep your dog interested. Cleaning is easy since it is dishwasher safe, saving you time and effort.

However, while it is durable, extremely aggressive chewers might find it less resilient over time. Additionally, its size is best suited for medium dogs, which might not be ideal for very small or very large breeds. Safety-wise, the toy is made from non-toxic rubber, ensuring it is safe for your pet to chew on. The KONG Classic Stuffable Dog Toy is a reliable and engaging choice for most medium-sized dogs.

The Outward Hound Nina Ottosson Multipuzzle Level 4 is designed for dogs that enjoy a mental challenge, especially those who have outgrown easier puzzles. Its size (15 x 15 x 1.7 inches) is suitable for dogs of all breeds and life stages, making it versatile. The puzzle offers multiple ways to interact—sliding tiles, spinning wheels, and moving sliders—to uncover treats, which keeps your dog engaged and helps reduce boredom and anxiety. This mental exercise can be a good way to slow down fast eaters by using it as a feeder.

In terms of durability, it’s made of plastic and meant for supervised play since it’s not chew-proof; dogs should not be left alone with it to avoid damage or injury. Cleaning requires hand washing, which is manageable but not as easy as dishwasher-safe toys. The puzzle’s complexity suits experienced dogs, but beginners might find it too challenging. Safety is emphasized with clear instructions to supervise and inspect regularly, ensuring pieces don’t break off.

If you have a smart dog that needs a fun mental workout and you can supervise playtime, this toy is a good fit. However, if your dog tends to chew aggressively or if you need a low-maintenance toy, you might want to consider other options.