Dogs, like us, can get bored and stressed, which can lead to unwanted behaviors and an unhappy pup. Luckily, the right toys can work wonders at keeping your furry friend engaged, entertained, and stress-free. We have a few ideas! But first, a quick note: No matter how well you know your dog, always keep an eye on them while they play with toys. Even well-behaved dogs can try to nosh on toys, which can lead to costly emergency surgeries. Now, let's dive into why toys can help alleviate your dog's stress or boredom and some of the best toys for boredom and stress relief to keep your dog happy and healthy! Why dog toys matter for boredom and stress relief When dogs are bored or stressed, they can start barking excessively , chewing on your favorite shoes , or digging up the yard. And while dogs of any age or breed can be prone to anxiety , certain breeds (especially high-energy working or herding breeds ) need more than average mental and physical stimulation to stay happy. You might see your pup on the list: While regular exercise is key to keeping your dog healthy and happy, enrichment activities and toys can make a big difference too! And research backs it up: To sum it up, here are some key benefits of dog toys that engage your pup’s brain: Ready to find the perfect toy for your furry friend? Let's explore some of the best options out there to keep your dog entertained, your shoes intact, and your sanity in check. Best dog toys for anxiety and boredom Different toys offer various types of mental stimulation. You might need to try a few types to see what your dog likes! Here are some categories to consider, along with the top recommended products for each. Top puzzle and brain games for smart dogs Puzzle toys are perfect for those clever canines who need a mental challenge. These toys require dogs to solve problems to get rewards, keeping their minds sharp and engaged. Ideal for breeds like Border Collies and German Shepherds, who thrive on mental stimulation. Best interactive electronic toys Interactive and electronic toys are fantastic for dogs who love movement and sound. These toys react to your dog's actions, providing endless entertainment—perfect for high-energy breeds like Belgian Malinois who need seemingly constant stimulation. Best durable chew toys Chew toys are a lifesaver for dogs who love to, well, chew! They satisfy your dog's natural chewing instincts, and like we said, the act of chewing has actually been shown to help calm anxious dogs down. Most of the ones below are ideal for heavy chewers like Pit Bulls and Rottweilers who need something tough to gnaw on, but you know your dog best. Try to match your dog's age and stage with the best chew for them (most toys have this listed on their packaging). A note here for the chewers : Avoid rawhide, as it may cause intestinal blockages. And proceed with caution when selecting a chew. Even "safe" chew bones can injure your pup's teeth, and some toys that claim to be "indestructible" can be decimated in moments by tough chewers. Best fetch toys for active play Fetch toys, like balls and frisbees, are great for dogs that love to run and play outdoors. They encourage active play and exercise, perfect for breeds like Golden Retrievers and Australian Shepherds who have lots of energy to burn. Best treat-dispensing toys for food-driven dogs Food and treat-dispensing toys combine the fun of play with the reward of a tasty treat. They’re excellent for keeping your dog occupied for longer periods of time (and you'll notice they could easily fit into the puzzle category above). Perfect for dogs that love food and need a bit of mental stimulation, like Beagles and French Bulldogs. DIY dog toys to keep your pup busy Making your own dog toys can be a fun and cost-effective way to keep your dog entertained. Of course, always prioritize safety, monitor your dog while they play with these, and avoid materials that could cause intestinal blockages (like fabric or tennis balls—we've seen treatment claims for both here at ManyPets!). Ice cube treats Cardboard tube treat puzzle PVC pipe puzzle toy Safety tips for dog toys And remember, dog insurance is crucial for those unexpected moments. It can help reimburse you for covered (not pre-existing) accidents and illnesses, so you can focus on keeping your pup happy and healthy instead of the cost of vet care. Dog toys are a key part of the puzzle (pun totally intended) to preventing boredom and reducing stress in your dog. By understanding your dog's needs and choosing the right toys, you can keep them happy, healthy, and engaged. Explore different toy options and see what works best for your dog!