Finding the right toy to keep your energetic pup engaged can be a challenge, especially when you're dealing with a bored or food-motivated dog. We’ve carefully curated a list of toys, tried and tested for mental stimulation, promoting healthy eating habits, and having fun, that address the specific needs of your new puppy.
Our Top 3
Best for Unstimulated Pups | Best for Food-Motivated Dogs | Best for Dual Function
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Boredom Buster | Wobble Ball | Natural Nourish 2-in-1 Dental Treat Bone |
Types of Dog Treat Dispensers
Before we delve into our list of the best dog food dispensing toys, you must understand how to choose the right toy for your puppy. Let's take a look at the different types of toys available:
Puzzle Toys
Enhance cognitive skills by requiring a dog to solve problems to access treats.
Chew Toys
Combine the benefits of treat dispensing with the satisfaction of chewing, promoting dental health.
Interactive Toys
Engage puppies both mentally and physically, often requiring human interaction, thus strengthening the bond between pet and owner.
10 Best Treat Dispensing Toys for Puppies
1. Boredom Buster
We don’t like to brag but if you are looking for an ingeniously designed treat dispenser that stimulates your dog’s mind, look no further than our Boredom Buster.
We know puppies have high energy levels but we’ve created this food-dispensing dog toy to ensure it best engages your new addition for prolonged periods. It also stops your pup from scoffing everything in one go, as you should aim to limit a dog’s treats to 10% of a dog’s daily calorie intake.
Made from a highly durable natural rubber, it is a safe but resilient toy. We are always mindful of our environmental impact, and the rubber used in this is tapped directly from rubber trees. It is super strong with an elasticity to it.
We are so confident in the durability of the dispenser that if your dog’s toy becomes damaged beyond expected wear, we’ll replace it for free.
The naturally springy rubber appeals to pups who love to chew, but it also adds an element of surprise thanks to its bouncy nature. The domed shape also helps it to roll, encouraging your puppy to chase it around. If you are looking for the best dog treat balls, this is definitely one of them.
Specifically designed for indoor play, the natural rubber composition also ensures that it is gentle on your flooring whilst still being able to withstand enthusiastic, rough play and, of course, teeth.
We’ve also ensured that the Boredom Buster offers treat versatility as you can fill it with a wide range of foods including kibble, nut butter, or dog-safe pastes. This helps you to cater to your puppy’s preferences whilst also ensuring healthy treat consumption.
Pros:
Durable, natural rubber
Suitable for heavy chewers
Stylish design for indoor use
Warranty for damage beyond expected wear
Cons:
- May not suit extremely aggressive chewers
Our rating: 5/5
Price: £10.99
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2. Treat Bone
Another of our robust and stimulating treat dispenser toys; the Treat Bone.
Much like our Boredom Buster, this has been made from the same natural rubber. This ensures it is a durable toy when chewed and can even withstand the teeth of larger breeds with strong jaws. The thick, spongy elastic is gentle on the teeth and gums but still offers a satisfying chewing experience for your puppy.
The treat bone's design is both practical and aesthetically pleasing. Available in soothing pastel colours of green and pink, it integrates well into any home environment, reducing the need to hide or put away the toy when not in use. The colourways are particularly appealing for puppy owners who value both functionality and style in their pet toys.
Of course, being a treat dispenser, one of the key features of our Treat Bone is its ability to be stuffed with a variety of treats or pastes, providing prolonged entertainment and mental stimulation for your dog. This process encourages your puppy’s problem-solving skills, whilst keeping them occupied for extended periods which relieves anxiety and restlessness.
Again, as with our Boredom Buster, we are super confident in the wear of our Treat Bone.
If the toy is damaged beyond expected wear, we’ll send out a free replacement.
Pros:
Highly durable for heavy chewers
Stylish design for indoor use
Made from natural rubber
Cons:
- The shape is not as challenging as other puzzle toys
Our rating:4.5/5
Price: £10.99
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3. SodaPup Honey Pot Treat Dispenser
SodaPup Honey Pot Treat Dispenser is a delightfully designed food dispensing toy that engages your dog’s curiosity. Part of a larger, bee-themed collection, the bright colour and honey pot design encourage exploration.
It's an excellent tool for combating boredom and encouraging slower, more deliberate eating habits, particularly beneficial for dogs that tend to eat their meals too quickly. The large size of the Honey Pot is perfect for filling with a variety of treats, including kibble, canned dog food, and even homemade dog treats.
For an added challenge, it can be frozen with treats inside, offering a refreshing and prolonged playtime experience during warmer weather.
Beyond its functionality as a treat dispenser, this toy serves multiple purposes. It can be a solution for dogs with chewing tendencies, providing a safe and appropriate outlet for their chewing needs. Furthermore, it can be a comforting presence for dogs dealing with separation anxiety, offering them a distraction and a sense of engagement when alone.
The sizing and weight of the Honey Pot make it a suitable choice for a wide range of dog breeds, ensuring that dogs of various sizes can enjoy the benefits it offers.
Pros:
Encourages slow eating and mental stimulation
Helps with chewing habits and separation anxiety
Suitable for both wet and dry treats
Cons:
Specific theme might not appeal to all
May be too large for very small breeds
Our rating: 4/5
Price:£13.99
SodaPup Honey Pot Treat Dispenser
4. Brightkins Small Cupcake Treat Dispenser
Brightkins Small Cupcake toy works to enhance your puppy’s mental agility and physical dexterity. Developed alongside certified dog trainers, they have used expert knowledge to further enhance the function of this toy.
Shaped like a cupcake, in bright colours, your puppy will instantly be attracted to this treat dispenser. It offers a playful experience to bored pups, thanks to its wobbly nature. Your pet will be encouraged to use their nose and paws to release the treats, promoting cognitive development and problem-solving skills.
Made from sturdy, hard-wearing materials, this toy has been designed to withstand enthusiastic puppy play and is compact, making it easy to take out and about. It is also easy to clean and simply requires warm soapy water to clean it.
Suitable for a wide range of treats or kibble, this dispenser adapts to your dog's dietary needs and preferences. The design also ensures that the treats are dispensed gradually which prolongs the fun and keeps your dog busy for extended periods.
Pros:
Durable and easy to clean
Suitable for all dog ages and sizes
Affordable price
Cons:
Limited to one design
Treat capacity is small
Our rating: 3/5
Price: £6.00
Brightkins Small Cupcake Treat Dispenser
5. Super Stick
The Super Stick, made from bouncy natural rubber, delivers the chewability every puppy craves without the danger of splinters, unlike traditional sticks. Its intuitive stick shape is perfectly suited for a pup's mouth, ensuring a safe yet satisfying playtime.
With increased visibility thanks to its vibrant orange or yellow colour, it will be hard to lose this on outdoor adventures. It also has a cleverly weighted end which boosts throwing distance for those energetic fetch sessions. It's a universal fit for puppies of any size, from robust pitbulls to dainty yorkies, making it the ultimate teething toy.
To ramp up the excitement, its hollow end can be stuffed with delicious nut butter, providing extra fun and a mental challenge. This toy is derived from the sap of rubber trees, free from synthetic materials, cementing its status as puppy-friendly thanks to its natural composition.
We're so confident in its durability that we promise a free replacement if it ever fails beyond normal wear and tear.
Pros:
Durable, natural rubber
Two colour options
Weighted end for long throwing distances
Universal size
Cons:
- Limited gameplay options
Our rating: 5/5
Price: £13.99
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6. Starmark Bob-A-Lot Dispensing Toy
The Starmark Bob-A-Lot is a thoughtfully designed, interactive treat dispensing toy
that challenges and entertains dogs of all sizes and breeds. Its unique bobbing and tilting motion captivates your dog’s attention, encouraging them to engage in playful problem-solving.
The toy’s dual chambers are designed to dispense treats at varying degrees of difficulty, which can be adjusted to suit your dog’s skill level. This customisation feature ensures longevity with this toy as it can be used as your puppy gets older but remains an exciting challenge.
The toy’s robust construction is made from a durable polymer, which withstands the rigors of aggressive play. The anti-slip coating at the bottom of the toy adds stability and reduces noise during indoor play, making it an excellent choice for households that prefer a quieter environment.
The Bob-A-Lot's size and weight are carefully thought about to provide a satisfying challenge without being too challenging for smaller breeds.
This toy not only entertains but also serves as an effective tool for slowing down meal times, which can aid in digestion and weight management for dogs prone to eating quickly. The Starmark Bob-A-Lot Dispensing Toy’s combination of mental stimulation, physical activity, and durability makes it an outstanding choice for pet owners looking to enrich their dog’s playtime.
Pros:
Customizable difficulty levels
Encourages physical and mental engagement
Anti-slip coating for quieter play
Durable polymer construction
Cons:
May be challenging for less food-motivated dogs
Larger sizes may not suit smaller breeds
Our rating: 3.5/5
Price: £10.99
Starmark Bob-A-Lot Dispensing Toy
7. Pets At Home Training Treat Ball
The Pets At Home Training Treat Ball is a versatile and engaging toy designed to provide endless hours of entertainment and mental stimulation for your dog. This toy is particularly effective for dogs that require additional mental challenges to stay engaged.
The ball’s design features small holes at each end, allowing pet owners to stuff it with their dog’s favourite treats. As your dog plays with the ball, trying to figure out how to retrieve the treats, they are actively engaged in a mental puzzle, enhancing their cognitive abilities.
The ball's construction is robust, ensuring durability for prolonged play sessions, and its size is perfect for dogs of all breeds. The texture of the ball not only makes it interesting for your dog to interact with but also assists in cleaning their teeth and gums as they chew.
The Treat Ball is not only a plaything but also a training aid, assisting in teaching your dog patience and problem-solving skills. The rolling and bouncing actions of the ball add a physical exercise element to the mental challenge, ensuring a well-rounded play experience.
Pros:
Promotes mental stimulation
Versatile for different play activities
Affordable and durable
Suitable for all dog sizes
Cons:
Requires supervision to prevent chewing damage
Treats may fall out easily for smarter dogs
Our rating: 4/5
Price: £6.00
Our rating: 4/5
Price: £6.00
Pets At Home Training Treat Ball
8. Wobble Ball
The Wobble Ball is a thoughtfully designed puzzle toy that combines simplicity with stimulation. Available in two colours, blue or pink, it has one entry and exit point for treat to be dispensed. This makes it a perfect beginner’s level challenge, ideal for puppies that are new to puzzle toys.
The key to its appeal lies in its ease of use and the instant gratification it offers to pups.
Its design encourages natural foraging behaviour as dogs nudge and roll the ball to dispense treats. This interactive process not only entertains but also enhances your dog's problem-solving skills.
The Wobble Ball is made from a highly durable natural rubber that has a light vanilla scent to entice your pup, although it's unlikely they’ll need much encouragement to check out something new.
It has a lightweight design that is suitable for indoor use but is still hard-wearing and tough thanks to its natural rubber composition. It is also springy enough that it bounces, as well as being suitable for heavy chewers.
This toy is particularly effective for indoor play, offering a mess-free solution to keeping your puppy busy. The size and weight of the toy make it suitable for a range of dog breeds, ensuring it's neither too intimidating for smaller dogs nor too easy for larger breeds.
Pros:
Made from natural rubber
Good for puppies new to puzzle games
Easy to clean
Cons:
- May not challenge more advanced dogs
Our rating: 4.5/5
Price: £9.99
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9. Natura Nourish TreaTricks 2-in-1 Dental Treat Bone
The Natura Nourish TreaTricks 2-in-1 Dental Treat Bone Dog Toy is an innovative combination of a treat dispenser and a dental health enhancer. This toy takes a multi-faceted approach to your dog's well-being, focusing not just on mental stimulation but also on oral health.
The bone itself is made from Thermoplastic Rubber (TPR), known for its durability and safety, making it an ideal material for long-lasting chew toys.
Embedded in the bone are eight grain-free, chicken-flavoured dental treat spikes. These are not just delicious for your dog but also packed with beneficial ingredients like omega-3 and 6 fatty acids, lecithin, glucosamine, chondroitin sulphate, and essential vitamins B and E. These ingredients are carefully chosen to support brain and nerve function, healthy skin and coat, joint health, and overall immune system health.
The unique design of the bone, with its textured nubs and grooves, will work to reduce plaque and tartar build-up, promoting better dental hygiene. Once the initial treats are consumed, the bone can be refilled with TreaTricks Dental Treat Spikes, available separately, making this toy a sustainable choice for continuous use.
The Natura Nourish TreaTricks toy is an excellent option for pet owners who are looking for a treat dispenser that goes beyond just playtime. It's suitable for dogs over six months old, catering to a wide range of breeds and sizes.
Pros:
Supports oral health
Made from durable and safe TPR
Refillable for continued use
Cons:
- Not suitable for puppies under 6 months
Our rating:4/5
Price: £8.00
Natura Nourish TreaTricks 2-in-1 Dental Treat Bone
10. Tug-E-Nuff The Clam Dispensing Toy
Tug-E-Nuff's Clam Dispensing Toy is an innovative treat dispensing toy that stands out for its unique design and versatility. It is particularly effective for dogs that are highly motivated by food but may show less interest in traditional toys.
Designed to captivate food-driven types of dogs, it combines the allure of treats with the excitement of play. The Clam's sturdy construction ensures durability, while its compact size makes it easy to carry and conceal, perfect for training exercises such as recall. Available in three colourways, it is appealing to dogs and easy for them to spot during play.
There is a secure, adjustable fastening mechanism. This allows you to customise the level of difficulty for your puppy as they progress. It can help to gradually improve your pup’s problem-solving skills and keep them challenged.
Made from a soft, durable fabric the toy is also machine washable. This convenient feature helps you to ensure it remains clean and hygienic for your pup at all times. The fabric composition also means it is versatile enough to be thrown, hidden, or used in tug games.
Tug-E-Nuff also offers a free Clam Training E-Guide with this toy that offers valuable tips and tricks to maximise its usage. Whether you want to use the toy for bonding, training, or play there are various ways in which you can utilise The Clam.
Pros:
Adjustable difficulty for progressive training
Machine washable for easy cleaning
Covered by a 45-day guarantee
Cons:
Higher price point
Soft materials are not as durable as rubber options
Our rating:5/5
Price: £17.95
Tug-E-Nuff The Clam Dispensing Toy
Key Summary of Best Treat Dispensing Toys
| Toy Name | Price | Key Features | Our Rating |
|---|---|---|---|
| Boredom Buster | £10.99 | Durable, natural rubber, designed for indoor play, treat versatility, warranty for damage beyond expected wear | 5/5 |
| Treat Bone | £10.99 | Made from natural rubber, stylish design, suitable for heavy chewers, treat dispensing | 4.5/5 |
| SodaPup Honey Pot Treat Dispenser | £13.99 | Encourages slow eating, suitable for wet and dry treats, helps with chewing habits and separation anxiety | 4/5 |
| Brightkins Small Cupcake Treat Dispenser | £6 | Durable, easy to clean, affordable, promotes cognitive development | 3/5 |
| Super Stick | £13.99 | Durable natural rubber, two colour options, weighted end for long throws, universal size | 5/5 |
| Starmark Bob-A-Lot Dispensing Toy | £10.99 | Customizable difficulty levels, encourages physical and mental engagement, anti-slip coating, durable polymer construction | 3.5/5 |
| Pets At Home Training Treat Ball | £6 | Promotes mental stimulation, affordable and durable, suitable for all dog sizes | 4/5 |
| Wobble Ball | £9.99 | Made from natural rubber, good for beginners, easy to clean | 4.5/5 |
| Natura Nourish TreaTricks 2-in-1 Dental Treat Bone | £8 | Supports oral health, made from durable TPR, refillable for continued use | 4/5 |
| Tug-E-Nuff The Clam Dispensing Toy | £17.95 | Adjustable difficulty, machine washable, covered by a 45-day guarantee | 5/5 |
What to Avoid with Puppy Treat Dispenser Toys
When selecting treat dispenser toys for puppies, there are several key points to consider avoiding:
Choking Hazards
Ensure the toy does not have small parts that can be easily chewed off and swallowed.
Excessive Hardness
Toys that are too hard can damage your puppy's teeth.
Toxic Materials
Avoid toys made from materials that can be toxic if ingested.
Overfeeding
Be mindful of the amount of treats you place in the dispensers to avoid overfeeding.
Are Treat Dispensing Toys Good for Dogs?
Treat dispensing toys offer numerous benefits for puppies. The benefits go beyond a simple treat for your pup, they also include:
Mental Stimulation
These toys challenge your dog's intellect, keeping them mentally engaged and active.
Reduction of Destructive Behaviour
They redirect energy away from destructive tendencies, promoting healthier behaviour.
Weight Management
Slowing down eating helps manage weight and prevents overeating.
Encouragement of Playtime
Transform mealtime into playtime, fostering a healthier lifestyle.
Development of Problem-Solving Skills
Dogs learn valuable problem-solving skills while manipulating the toy.
Source of Entertainment
These toys provide endless entertainment, alleviating boredom and separation anxiety.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How do you make a dog treat dispenser toy?
Homemade treat dispensers can be made using safe household items like PVC pipes with holes drilled into them. Always ensure the safety and suitability of the materials used.
What is the treat dispenser for senior dogs?
Senior dogs may benefit from softer, easy-to-manipulate dispensers that do not require intense physical activity.
How do you train a dog to use a treat dispenser?
Start with easier dispensers and encourage your dog by showing them how treats come out. Gradually increase the difficulty as they understand the concept.
Paw-fect End
The best treat-dispensing dog toys are those that combine durability, safety, and mental stimulation. These toys not only keep your pup busy but also contribute to their overall well-being. Whether you choose a puzzle toy, a chew toy, or an interactive toy, ensure it suits your dog's size, age, and chewing habits.
