Most dogs have an incredibly developed sense of smell, instincts, and learning ability. But how often do we really give them the opportunity to think, to problem solve, to develop mentally? Walks and a ball are good. But the modern dog, like the modern human, needs an intellectual challenge. And that’s why ordinary toys are being replaced by educational toys: puzzles, olfactory mats, interactive designs that teach the animal to think, search, analyze.

In this article we have collected the best interactive toys for dogs, which can be purchased in Ukraine, which are real tools of mental training, changing the quality of life of the Pet. If you want to see your dog attentive, balanced and happy – read this article.

Nina Ottosson Dog Hide N’ Slide

This is a classic intelligence training dog toy that teaches your dog to think logically, solve problems sequentially and use his nose, paws and intuition. It looks like a board with ‘windows’ with treats hidden underneath. The dog’s job is to find a way to move the pieces to get to the tasty reward.

Suitable for a medium level of difficulty: not too easy, but not hopelessly difficult either. Ideal for adult dogs who already have basic skills of mental games. In Ukrainian stores the cost is about 1000 UAH.

Trixie’s play tower

This is a vertical structure in which treats are placed at different levels. To get them, the dog has to pull the string or push the lever and the treat will fall out. This model is ideal for developing cause-and-effect relationships, patience and motor skills.

The level of difficulty – beginner/intermediate. Suitable even for small breeds. Very popular among dogs that quickly get tired of passive games. Cost – about 500 UAH, which makes it one of the best value for money.

Hide the squirrel from Outward Hound.

This is a soft interactive dog toy in the shape of a tree with little plush squirrels inside. The dog must retrieve them using his sense of smell, teeth and paws. This game awakens the animal’s hunting instinct and gives real pleasure from the process of retrieval.

The dog toy is not for complexity, but for emotional involvement. It is ideal for dogs that like to “disassemble” soft objects or are looking for a contact game. Its price in Ukraine is about 700 to 1200 UAH, depending on the size.

Nina Ottosson Twister

This is a real brain exerciser. Unlike simple sliders, Twister requires consistent rotation of parts in a certain direction. If the dog presses or pulls the wrong way, nothing happens. This is level 3+, and not everyone can do it right away.

This toy develops strategic thinking, patience and the ability to learn from mistakes. Cost – from 1100 UAH. It is suitable for dogs that already have experience in puzzles or need a real intellectual load.

A “tumbling” treat.

This is a dispenser ball with holes in which treats are placed. When your dog rolls the ball with his nose or paws, pieces of food fall out of the inside. It is a simple but fun game that encourages movement and concentration.

Great for puppies or dogs that are just beginning to be introduced to smart toys. Thanks to its shape, Treat Tumble also serves as a tool for physical activity. Cost – from 300 UAH.

Sniffing mats

This is a textile base with many folds and pockets where the owner hides food or treats. The dog has to sniff and retrieve the treat using his sense of smell, teeth and paws. This game develops the sense of smell and calms the nervous system, helping the dog to concentrate.

On sale in Ukraine there are models from Happy Peppy, Trixie, Camon and other brands. Prices range from 400 to 900 UAH depending on the size and complexity.

Conclusion

Developmental dog toys are a basic need for the modern dog. They help channel energy in a constructive direction, reduce anxiety, form stable attention and teach them to think for themselves. Even a few minutes a day with a properly selected puzzle is more beneficial than an hour of mindless running around.

The Ukrainian market has long been keeping up – we have access to the best world brands, and every owner can find exactly the right toy for his dog in terms of age, temperament and level of experience.

Don’t delay your dog’s introduction to mind games – try at least one, and you’ll see your dog’s eyes sparkle as he solves problems. It’s in these moments that the real bond between you and your pet is born.