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This content was reviewed and fact-checked by AKC Certified Dog Trainer & Behaviorist Madison Tanner Clark.
Dogs aren’t just pets—they’re thinkers, problem-solvers, and mischief-makers with boundless energy. If your pup’s idea of “fun” involves redecorating your couch or conducting a solo trash-can raid, it might be time to upgrade from basic chew toys to something that engages their brain and body. Enter interactive dog toys: the secret weapon to keep dogs entertained for hours while providing developmental and behavioral benefits to your dog. Today, we review the best interactive dog toys to challenge, entertain, and enrich your dog’s life. That way, you can keep their tails wagging and your shoes intact. Let’s dive in.
What Are Interactive Dog Toys?
Interactive dog toys are designed to engage dogs mentally and physically, providing a stimulating experience beyond simple play. These toys require interaction from the dog, often involving problem-solving, manipulating objects, or physical activity to achieve a reward, such as treats or kibble.
Interactive Dog Toys Benefits
Interactive toys are beneficial for reducing boredom, anxiety, and destructive behaviors while promoting cognitive development and physical exercise. Dogs, much like children, can quickly lose interest in their toys. Research suggests that dogs can form strong emotional attachments to certain toys, just as children do.[1] Further studies by canine behavior expert Dr. Emily Blackwell, who analyzed 4,000 dog owners, found that dogs who engaged in less play were more likely to develop one or more of 22 behavioral problems.[2]
Since most dogs get bored with static toys, experts recommend rotating interactive toys to encourage problem-solving and sustained engagement.[3] Unlike traditional toys, interactive toys help prevent habituation while keeping them entertained and sharp. They can also be a great way to strengthen the bond between you and your dog while reinforcing positive behaviors. Even when your dog is home alone, puzzle feeders, treat-dispensing toys, and activity-based challenges can provide entertainment, helping to ease anxiety and prevent loneliness.
How to Pick the Best Interactive Dog Toy
Choosing the right toy depends on your dog’s breed, size, energy level, and play style. Here’s what to consider:
Match intelligence level – Simple puzzles for beginners and advanced ones for smart dogs.
Consider play style – Chewers need durable toys, fetch lovers need launchers, tug players need ropes.
Prioritize safety – Choose non-toxic, durable toys with no small parts.
Factor in energy levels – High-energy dogs need active toys, low-energy dogs prefer puzzles.
Rotate toys – Keep playtime exciting by switching up different types.
Best Interactive Toy for Dogs
Here are the best interactive dog toys of this year.
Best Overall Interactive Toy for Dogs
4.8
★★★★★
KONG Jumbler Ball
Who It’s For: Ideal for active, energetic dogs who thrive on interactive play or pups who need mental stimulation and physical exercise. It combines fetch, tug-of-war, and treat-dispensing into one toy.
Why we recommended it:The KONG Jumbler Ball is ideal for pups who love to chase, fetch, and chew. It’s especially well-suited for high-energy breeds that need mental and physical stimulation or dogs who enjoy casual fetch play, tug-of-war, and interactive play. It’s suitable for both solo and group play. We recommend the KONG Jumbler Ball because it offers a unique combination of a squeaky interior tennis ball and dual handles, which facilitate easy pickup and shaking, encouraging active engagement between dogs and their owners.
What sets it apart from competitors: Durable construction and versatile design. Made from robust rubber, it withstands rough play while being gentle on dogs’ teeth. The toy’s ability to float in water makes it perfect for pool or beach play, adding to its versatility.
Why we recommended it:BarkBox BarkBox delivers a curated mix of excitement and practicality. Each box includes 2-4 toys, 2 treat bags, and a chew and is thoughtfully curated based on your dog’s size and preferences, making it a one-stop shop for mental stimulation and play. You can even upgrade to their Extra Toy Club and get an additional premium toy in every box for only $9/month. You can also find individual BarkBox toys on Amazon, but we recommend their boxes for saving and more exclusive toys.
What sets it apart from competitors: BarkBox’s themed boxes (e.g., Marvel, holiday specials) and exclusive collaborations create a sense of novelty that rivals lack.
Best Interactive Dog Toy for Chewers
4.6
★★★★★
West Paw Qwizl
Who It’s For: Designed for dogs who like to chew a lot. Perfect for keeping dogs occupied for extended periods.
Why we recommended it:The West Paw Qwizl offers a unique combination of mental stimulation and durability. It’s a durable and engaging toy that can keep their dogs occupied for extended periods, making it perfect for busy pet owners who want to challenge their dogs’ problem-solving skills while keeping them entertained. Additionally, the Qwizl is non-toxic, dishwasher-safe, and recyclable, making it both safe for dogs and environmentally friendly. It’s made from Zogoflex material, which can withstand the most aggressive chewers. Additionally, its curved shape allows dogs to hold it comfortably between their paws, facilitating independent play.
What sets it apart from competitors: Innovative hollow, ridged design lets you stuff it with everything from kibble to long-lasting chews like bully sticks, turning snack time into a rewarding puzzle. The toy features side openings that release scents and tastes, encouraging dogs to work for their treats, while its continuous interior hole allows treats to extend out, prolonging playtime.
Best Interactive Durable Dog Toy (For Heavy Chewers)
4.7
★★★★★
Waiting to play
Super Chewer Box
Who It’s For: Designed for dogs who are heavy chewers and destroy typical toys within minutes and need durable, engaging play options.
Why we recommended it:The Super Chewer Box toys combine durability with interactive features like treat-dispensing cores, squeakers, and layered designs, keeping dogs mentally and physically engaged. Many of the toys feature a two-in-one design, such as a plush exterior that reveals a durable rubber or nylon core once chewed through. These toys also incorporate unique scents (e.g., cheese or barbecue) to enhance engagement and provide sensory stimulation. Each box includes two to three tough chew toys, two bags of all-natural human-grade treats, and two meaty chews, ensuring that dogs stay entertained and rewarded, making it a well-rounded enrichment experience.
What sets it apart from competitors: A rotating themed selection of new, engaging designs each month, and the ability to tailor subscriptions to their dog’s preferences. If a toy doesn’t hold up, BarkBox will replace it for free—something many dog owners appreciate when dealing with relentless chewers. You can also find individual Super Chewer toys on Amazon, but we recommend their boxes for saving and more exclusive indestructible toys.
Why we recommended it:CHEWFFON puzzle toy combines multiple sensory elements to captivate your dog’s interest. The crinkly texture and hidden treat compartments encourage natural sniffing and foraging instincts, promoting mental stimulation, reducing anxiety, and slowing down fast eaters or distracting dogs during stressful events (like thunderstorms). They offer other amazing interactive designs, such as Pupella and Ramen Cup.
What sets it apart from competitors: Unlike puzzle toys with fixed difficulty levels, the CHEWFFON toys can be modified with scissors to make the snuffling experience easier or harder, depending on the dog’s needs. This feature ensures that the toy remains challenging yet fun for dogs as they grow and learn.
Best Interactive Puzzle Toy For Dogs
4.5
★★★★★
Barkwhiz Dog Puzzle Toy
Who It’s For: Great choice for pet owners seeking to provide their dogs with engaging mental stimulation. Particularly beneficial for intelligent breeds or bored dogs.
Why we recommended it: The Barkwhiz Dog Puzzle Toy 3 Levels offers a progressive challenge with three difficulty levels. It provides a versatile and engaging way to challenge dogs’ cognitive abilities, helping to reduce destructive behavior and enhance mental well-being. The toy combines different types of games, such as flip and sliding mechanisms, requiring dogs to learn sequences and strategies to access treats. This variety keeps dogs engaged longer than simpler puzzles, making it a great option for smart dogs that quickly solve basic puzzles.
What sets it apart from competitors: It can enhance your dog’s IQ and train their sense of smell. The puzzle’s curved surface prevents a dog’s mouth or nose injury.
Best Self-Moving Interactive Dog Toy
4.5
★★★★★
Cheerble
Who It’s For: Perfect for pet owners looking to keep their dogs entertained even when they’re not around.
Why we recommended it:Cheerble’s Wicked Ball transforms playtime into a tech-driven, interactive adventure with minimal human effort. It keeps dogs “entertained for hours” through self-activated rolling, bouncing, and flashing lights, which trigger natural hunting instincts. The three customizable modes (Gentle, Normal, Active) adapt to your dog’s energy level—ideal for calming hyperactive pups or engaging lazy ones. It’s rechargeable via USB, eliminating the need for disposable batteries.
What sets it apart from competitors: With built-in motion sensors, the ball reacts to a dog’s touch, rolling, bouncing, and changing directions on its own. Unlike traditional fetch toys, it doesn’t require an owner’s involvement, making it a great option for solo play. It also keeps dogs intrigued and active even when you are away.
Best Interactive Treat-Dispensing Toy
4.6
★★★★★
West Paw Toppl
Who It’s For: Dog owners seeking a treat-dispensing toy that hides treats and liquids, posing challenges that keep their minds bright and busy for hours.
Why we recommended it: The West Paw Toppl Interactive Treat Dispensing Toy offers a unique way to hide treats or kibble dogs must discover during play. Once the treats are gone, your dog can use it as a chew toy for fetch, toss, and catch. It’s also floats for added fun. The rubber is durable enough to withstand a lot of chewing after the treats are gone.
What sets it apart from competitors: The Toppl’s genius lies in its modularity—two sizes can be interlocked to create a more complex puzzle, letting you adjust the difficulty as your dog’s skills grow. Unlike rigid, closed toys, its open structure allows dogs to see and smell treats, reducing frustration for beginners.
Best Interactive Plush Dog Toy
4.8
★★★★★
Barkbox Rip and Reveal
Who It’s For: Perfect for dogs who enjoy shredding, squeaking, and uncovering surprises during playtime.
Why we recommended it: The BarkBox 2-in-1 Interactive Plush Dog Toy features multiple interactive play elements—rip-and-reveal layers, a hidden squeaky ball, and whip-and-flip arms—offering a dynamic and engaging experience that keeps dogs entertained for longer periods. Dogs can tear through the plush outer layer to reveal a highly durable spiky squeaker ball inside, adding an extra layer of excitement to their play.
What sets it apart from competitors: The toy’s multi-layered construction encourages natural shredding instincts while ensuring extended use. Its crinkle textures, squeaky sounds, and durable materials provide a multi-sensory experience that many other plush toys lack.
Best Interactive Ball Dog Toy
4.6
★★★★★
QDAN Dog Toys Soccer Ball
Who It’s For: A slam dunk for active, playful dogs—especially those obsessed with fetch or tug-of-war.
Why we recommended it: The QDAN Dog Toys Soccer Ball offers durability with interactive features that cater to a dog’s natural instincts. The nylon straps make it a hit for dogs that love to grip, shake, or drag toys around, and it’s equally great for solo play when stuffed with treats. If your dog’s idea of fun involves teamwork (or showing off their soccer skills), this toy fits the bill. Constructed from premium PU material—the same used in standard soccer balls—it withstands vigorous play while remaining gentle on dogs’ teeth and gums.
What sets it apart from competitors: The nylon tabs sewn into the seams create an erratic bounce that excites dogs during play. Its lightweight and buoyant construction makes it suitable for water play in pools or at the beach. The inclusion of a hand pump ensures easy inflation, adding convenience for pet owners.
Best Interactive Fetch Dog Toy
4.8
★★★★★
Chuckit! Ball Launcher
Who It’s For: Perfect for dogs that love to chase and retrieve, especially high-energy breeds. Excellent for enhancing a dog’s exercise routine while reducing arm strain.
Why we recommended it:The Chuckit! Classic Ball Launcher transforms fetch into a low-effort, high-reward game for dogs and humans. Owners praise its ability to throw balls 2–3 times farther than manual throws, giving dogs a more rigorous workout in less time. The ergonomic handle reduces shoulder strain, and the “slobber-free pickup” claw lets you avoid soggy, dirt-caked balls—a godsend for germ-conscious pet parents. It’s also versatile: works with standard tennis balls or Chuckit!-brand balls (like the Ultra Ball), which float for water play and glow for nighttime visibility.
What sets it apart from competitors: Unlike basic throwers, its curved plastic claw securely grips balls mid-fetch, eliminating the need to bend or touch saliva-covered toys—a feature competitors like generic launchers lack
Best Interactive Tug-of-War Dog Toy
4.6
★★★★★
HOKINETY
Who It’s For: Designed for dogs of all sizes who enjoy tug-of-war, pulling, and solo play without the need for owners to pull.
Why we recommended it: The HOKINETY Dog Hanging Bungee Tug Toy allows dogs to play independently while simulating a tug-of-war game, promoting both physical activity and engagement without requiring constant owner involvement. The elastic bungee strap creates resistance, mimicking the tension of a tug game while bouncing back when pulled, keeping dogs entertained for extended periods. Additionally, the inclusion of two detachable cotton rope toys accommodates different breed sizes and chewing preferences, adding versatility to the toy’s functionality. By hanging the toy from a sturdy tree branch or beam, dogs can pull, swing, and tug to their heart’s content, promoting physical activity and mental stimulation.
What sets it apart from competitors: Durable bungee design adds an extra layer of excitement by creating unpredictable movements catering to a dog’s natural instincts.
Best Interactive Tug-of-War Dog Toy
4.7
★★★★★
CPYOSNOctopus
Who It’s For: Puppies, particularly those in the teething phase. Ideal for pet owners seeking a safe and engaging toy that provides comfort and entertainment.
Why we recommended it: The CPYOSN Store Dog Squeaky Toys Octopus offers a unique combination of squeaky sounds, crinkle textures, and a no-stuffing design, making it both fun and safe for puppies and young dogs to chew on. The toy’s lightweight and soft construction makes it easy for puppies to carry and play with, while the squeaker inside provides auditory stimulation that keeps them engaged. Additionally, the toy’s durability is enhanced by its tear-resistant plush material, which can withstand enthusiastic chewing.
What sets it apart from competitors: Stuffing-free design eliminates the risk of choking hazards or messy cleanups. With its multiple tentacles, the octopus design allows for various play styles, including tugging and fetching, promoting both physical exercise and mental stimulation.
Best Interactive Toy For Sensory Engagement
4.8
★★★★★
YOPSI Snuffle Mat
Who It’s For: Ideal for pet owners seeking to engage and improve their dogs’ sensory abilities, like smell, while providing a fun, interactive way to slow down eating and reduce boredom.
Why we recommended it: The YOPSI Snuffle Mat for Dogs isn’t just a mat—it’s a sensory scavenger hunt. The dense, soft fleece flaps and varied textures mimic natural foraging, encouraging dogs to look, sniff, paw, and nudge for hidden treats or kibble, providing mental stimulation and a rewarding experience. This activity can help alleviate boredom and reduce anxiety and stress, leading to a more content and balanced pet. The mat is constructed from high-quality, pet-safe materials that can withstand regular use, even by enthusiastic foragers. Its non-slip backing ensures stability during use, preventing frustration and potential messes. It’s gentle on paws and easy to toss in the washing machine after slobbery sessions.
What sets it apart from competitors: It provides a range of puzzles with different difficulty levels, allowing owners to customize the difficulty level by adjusting the amount and type of treats hidden within the mat, making it suitable for all dogs.
Best Interactive Dog Toy That Moves Independently
4.6
★★★★★
Potaroma Flopping Fish
Who It’s For: Dogs who enjoy interactive play and are intrigued by moving objects. Ideal for pet owners seeking a toy that can engage their dog’s natural hunting instincts.
Why we recommended it: The Potaroma Flopping Fish Toy has a motion-activated design, mimicking a real fish’s movement. This realistic simulation is captivating and engaging, encouraging pets to pounce and play. It’s great for dogs left alone for long periods, as the lifelike flopping mimics prey, keeping them entertained without human interaction. Senior dogs with lower energy but sharp instincts also enjoy its gentle stimulation. The toy is also USB rechargeable, making it convenient and eco-friendly. Additionally, its washable design ensures cleanliness and hygiene, which is a significant advantage over other interactive toys.
What sets it apart from competitors: This toy turns downtime into a mini safari. The fish’s motorized tail flops and wriggles when touched, triggering a dog’s chase reflex. The scaly texture and crinkle fabric add sensory variety. This fish’s random flailing feels eerily lifelike, keeping dogs guessing.
The Bottom Line
A bored dog is a destructive dog, but the right interactive toy can turn frustration into fun, loneliness into engagement, and chaos into calm. Whether it’s a puzzle feeder that sharpens their mind, a tug-of-war toy that strengthens your bond, or a high-tech gadget that keeps them entertained while you’re away, investing in interactive play is one of the best things you can do for your pup’s happiness and well-being.
Now that you know what to look for, it’s time to pick the perfect toy and give your dog the mental and physical stimulation they crave. After all, a happy, engaged dog isn’t just better behaved—they’re your playful, tail-wagging best friend for years to come.
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Sources
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