Reward Dog Toys: The Best Way to Show Your Pet You Care
Reward toys are essential for training and engaging dogs.
They provide mental stimulation and physical activity and strengthen the bond between the owner and the pet.
Here’s a list of five highly recommended reward toys, each serving a unique purpose or suiting different play styles.
- Instinctual Needs: The KONG Extreme black rubber toy helps satisfy dogs’ instinctual needs and provides mental stimulation; toy helps solve chewing, teething, boredom, crate training, digging, barking, and more
- Enticing Chew Toy for Dogs: This unique toy has an erratic and unpredictable bounce, keeping all breeds of dogs engaged and entertained during interactive play sessions
- Treat-Filling Capabilities: The hollow interior allows for stuffing with kibble, peanut butter, or KONG Snacks or Easy Treat, offering an added challenge and extended play time for your pet; dishwasher safe for easy clean up
- KONG’s Most Durable Natural Rubber Dog Toy: The KONG Extreme black rubber formula is created for power chewing dogs, and is recommended by veterinarians and trainers worldwide
- Made in the USA. Globally sourced materials. KONG has been innovating since 1976 to enrich the lives of pets with the highest quality pet toys and treats. Covered by KONG’s Satisfaction Guarantee
Last update on 2025-09-27 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
List of Top 5 Reward Dog Toys
- KONG Classic Dog Toy
- Purpose: The KONG Classic is excellent for stuffing with treats, providing mental stimulation as the dog retrieves the reward.
- Material: Made from durable rubber, suitable for moderate chewers.
- Ideal for: Dogs that enjoy chewing and problem-solving.
- West Paw Zogoflex Qwizl Interactive Treat Dispensing Toy
- Purpose: Designed to extend the life of expensive dog treats while simultaneously engaging and stimulating the animal.
- Material: It is constructed from durable, floatable, and recyclable material, and it also cleans up easily in the dishwasher.
- It is ideal for Active dogs and those needing extra incentive to stay engaged.
- Outward Hound Hide-A-Squirrel Squeaky Puzzle Plush Dog Toy
- Purpose: A plush puzzle toy that challenges dogs to uncover hidden squeaky squirrels, providing mental stimulation and reducing boredom.
- Material: Soft fabric; not intended for aggressive chewers.
- Ideal for: Dogs that enjoy softer textures and puzzle-solving activities.
- Chuckit! Ultra Ball
- Purpose: This highly durable and bouncy ball is perfect for fetch and interacts well with Chuckit! Ball Launcher.
- Material: Rubber with a high bounce, buoyancy for water play, and high visibility.
- Ideal for: Energetic dogs that love playing fetch, whether on land or in water.
- PetSafe Busy Buddy Tug-A-Jug
- Purpose: Multi-sensory toy that dispenses treats and can be used for tug-of-war games, combining physical and mental challenges.
- Material: Made from non-toxic materials and designed to withstand reasonable tug and play.
- Ideal for: Dogs who require more engagement and those who enjoy interactive play.
Each toy offers unique benefits and can help train, reward, and keep your dog healthy through active play.
KONG Classic Dog Toy
To use the KONG Classic Dog Toy, follow these steps:
- Choose an appropriate size KONG toy for your dog. They come in different sizes based on your dog’s weight and chewing strength.
- Fill the hollow center of the KONG toy with your dog’s favorite treats or peanut butter. This will encourage your dog to play with the toy and keep them entertained longer.
- Give the filled KONG toy to your dog and let them enjoy playing with it. The rubber material is durable and can withstand chewing and playtime.
- You can also use the KONG toy for interactive play by throwing it for your dog to fetch or hide treats inside for them to find.
- After use, clean the KONG toy with warm, soapy water and allow it to dry before replacing it with treats.
Overall, the KONG Classic Dog Toy is a versatile and durable toy that can provide hours of entertainment and mental stimulation for your dog.
Product specs:
- Made of durable natural rubber
- Available in multiple sizes for different dog breeds
- Hollow center for treats or peanut butter
- Recommended by veterinarians and trainers for mental stimulation
Pros:
- Great for keeping dogs entertained and mentally stimulated
- Durable and long-lasting
- It can be frozen to provide a cool dog treat during hot weather.
- Helps with dental hygiene by cleaning teeth and gums as dogs chew on it
Cons:
- Some dogs may not be interested in the toy if they don’t enjoy chewing
- It may not be suitable for aggressive chewers who can destroy the toy quickly
- It can be challenging to clean the inside of the toy if it gets dirty.
- DURABLE DOG CHEW TOYS FOR AGGRESSIVE CHEWERS: Keep your friendly Fido busy and entertained with this dog toy puzzle that features a hidden treat he must discover during play.
- INTERACTIVE CHEW TOYS FOR DOGS: If you have an aggressive chewer at home, safeguard your furniture by giving him this brightly-colored chew toy puzzle that will occupy your pets for hours.
- MENTALLY STIMULATING DOG TOYS: Prolong play with this mentally stimulating dog toy puzzle that extends the life of expensive dog treats and is fun to fetch, toss and catch after the treats are gone.
- EASY TO GRASP DOG CHEW TOY: The curved shape of this dog toy puzzle is easy to grasp and hold in place with his paws while the side openings entice your playful pup or senior dog with the scent of dog treats.
- RECYCLABLE PET TOYS: Not only do these dog toy puzzles from West Paw feature bright colors to easily spot inside or out, each dog chew toy is non-toxic, recyclable, dishwasher safe and Made in USA.
Last update on 2025-09-27 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
West Paw Zogoflex Qwizl Interactive Treat Dispensing Toy
The West Paw Zogoflex Qwizl is an interactive treat-dispensing toy designed for dogs to keep them mentally stimulated and entertained.
It is made from durable Zogoflex material, which makes it tough and able to withstand heavy chewing.
How to use:
- Insert your dog’s favorite treats or kibble into the openings on the ends of the Qwizl.
- Let your dog figure out how to get the treats out by rolling, tossing, or chewing on the toy.
- Supervise your dog while playing with the Qwizl to ensure they play safely.
Pros:
- Durable and long-lasting
- Mentally stimulating for dogs
- It can be used for treats or kibble.
- Dishwasher safe for easy cleaning
- Available in multiple sizes for different-sized dogs
Cons:
- Some dogs may quickly figure out how to get the treats out
- Larger treats may be difficult to insert or remove from the toy
Overall, the West Paw Zogoflex Qwizl is a great interactive toy for dogs that need mental stimulation and enjoy treat dispensing toys. It is durable, easy to clean, and provides hours of entertainment for your furry friend.
- The Hide A Squirrel dog puzzle has 6 stuffed squeaky squirrels to keep your dog engaged for hours. The Hedgehogz plush toy features grunter and squeaker noise makers for extra excitement.
- The Hide A Squirrel toy can be used for interactive fetch play or hide and seek play to stimulate your dog’s natural hunting instincts. The Hedgehogz toy has a rounded shape for dogs to carry, roll and snuggle up with.
- The plush texture of both toys is gentle on teeth and gums making them great choices for puppies and adult dogs.
- Multiple sizes available for both toys to suit different dog breeds.
- As with any toy, supervise your dog during play, inspect regularly and replace if damaged.
Last update on 2025-09-27 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Outward Hound Hide-a-Squirrel
The Outward Hound Hide-a-Squirrel is a popular dog toy that mentally stimulates your furry friend. The toy comes with a plush tree trunk and several squeaky squirrels that can be hidden inside for your dog to find.
To use the Outward Hound Hide-a-Squirrel, place the squirrels inside the trunk and let your dog sniff them out. You can also play fetch with the squirrels or use them as standalone toys.
Pros:
- It provides mental stimulation and helps prevent boredom in dogs.
- Squeaky squirrels add an element of fun to playtime
- Durable construction that can withstand rough play
- Helps improve your dog’s problem-solving skills
Cons:
- Some dogs may lose interest in the toy after repeated use
- Aggressive chewers can easily destroy squirrels.
- It may not be suitable for very small dogs or puppies.
Overall, the Outward Hound Hide-a-Squirrel is a fun and engaging toy for dogs of all sizes. It provides hours of entertainment and can help keep your pup occupied and mentally sharp.
Chuckit! Ultra Ball
The Chuckit! Ultra Ball is a durable and buoyant rubber ball designed for interactive play with your dog. It is compatible with the Chuckit! Launcher for long-distance throwing and is perfect for games of fetch.
To use the Chuckit! Ultra Ball: throw it for your dog to retrieve, or use the Chuckit! Launcher for extended throwing distances. The ball is easy to clean and is made of high-quality materials that stand up to rough play.
Pros:
- Durable rubber material that holds up to rough play
- Buoyant design for water play
- Compatible with the Chuckit! launcher for long-distance throwing
- Easy to clean
Cons:
- Some dogs may not be interested in playing with a ball
- It may be too small for large dogs to play comfortably.
- It can be chewed and damaged by extremely aggressive chewers.
- VERSATILE PLAY OPTIONS: The Fetch Medley 3-pack includes bouncy rubber balls for dogs to fetch, keeping dogs engaged and excited during fetch games with these interactive dog toys
- DURABLE RUBBER DESIGN: Each dog toy ball is made from tough rubber that is ompatible with Chuckit ball launchers for dogs; these toys are soft on your dog’s mouth, making fetch games fun and safe
- SAFE SIZING FOR DOGS: These medium balls measure 2.5 inches in diameter and are designed for dogs 20-60 lbs; these dog toy balls are easy to carry but won’t fit entirely in your pet’s mouth, and when in doubt, buy a size up
- HELP CLEAN YOUR DOG’S TEETH: The Rugged Ball features unique ridges that clean your dog’s teeth while playing with these stimulating dog toys
- PROMOTES PET BONDING: Chuckit balls for dogs strengthen the bond between pet and owner. Their iconic shapes and vibrant colors make fetching more enjoyable and elevate adventures
Last update on 2025-09-27 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
PetSafe Busy Buddy Tug-A-Jug
The PetSafe Busy Buddy Tug-A-Jug is an interactive treat-dispensing toy that keeps your dog entertained and mentally stimulated. It features a durable bottle-shaped toy with a rope attached to the top.
Your dog can tug on the rope to dispense treats from the toy.
To use the PetSafe Busy Buddy Tug-A-Jug, fill the bottle with your dog’s favorite treats or kibble.
As your dog plays with the toy and tugs on the rope, treats will be dispensed through the small openings in the bottle, providing a fun and rewarding experience for your furry friend.
Pros:
- It provides mental stimulation and helps prevent boredom in dogs.
- Encourages physical activity through tug-of-war play.
- Dispenses are treated slowly, promoting better digestion and preventing overeating.
- The durable design is suitable for heavy chewers.
- Adjustable rope length allows for customization based on your dog’s size.
Cons:
- It may be challenging for some dogs to figure out how to dispense treats initially.
- The bottle may be difficult to clean thoroughly.
- Some dogs may become frustrated if they are unable to retrieve treats easily.
- It is unsuitable for aggressive chewers dogs, as the rope may fray over time.
- Treats may get stuck in the bottle, requiring some shaking or manipulation to dispense them.
