Skip to main content
  1. Home
  2. Dogs

PawTracks may earn a commission when you buy through links on our site.

The best dog toys for stimulating your bored pooch

By

Your dog is home all day with no supervision and you want to make sure they’re not tempted to chew on your brand-new couch cushions. Dog toys for boredom combat restlessness and lack of an outlet, keeping your dog entertained even when you’re not home. We’ve revealed our favorite playthings here to help you choose the best one for your fur baby.

There are endless boredom-fighting dog toys available, but the most popular styles are plush squeaky toys, interactive balls, and treat-dispensing toys. Puppies especially need a wide variety to keep them entertained during their younger years, though adult dogs also need amusement. Consider a toy that keeps your dog active both mentally and physically. Moreover, a durable toy is also ideal, as dogs can play rough without their knowledge. Check out these toys we’ve recently discovered.

Outward Hound Interactive Puzzle Dog Toy

Best Puzzle Toy

Outward Hound’s toy is a brain-stimulating puzzle that dispenses treats when solved. Your puppy will learn how to slide, push, and pop open the containers to reveal yummy goodies inside. As they master the puzzle, you can introduce the removable pieces to further challenge their minds.

Pet Qwerks Blinky Babble Ball

Best Toy Ball

Pet Qwerks offers a toy ball that’s programmed with 18 different sounds and a motion-activated light. The included batteries will last up to 15,000 phrases or lights, while the tough plastic exterior will last years. Beneficial for pets with poor vision or dogs who need an outlet when home alone, this toy eradicates boredom.

Jalousie 5-Pack Dog SqueakyToys

Best Squeaky Set

The Jalousie squeaky toy set includes five different animals compatible with any size dog breed. This pack includes three no-fill animals with three squeakers each and two plush animals for a variety of play experiences. Each animal features a tough interior lining to keep its shape even with playful puppies and strong dogs.

Some dog behavioral problems can be traced back to boredom and restlessness. In this case, a brain-stimulating toy or two can turn your puppy from a destructive dog to a playful pet. Luckily, the toys on our list are guaranteed to combat boredom and undesirable behavior, whether you’re home to monitor your dog or away at work.

PawTracks Contributor
PawTracks Contributor
PawTracks Contributor
Xylitol and dogs: 10 unexpected products that contain this toxic ingredient
Products that hide xylitol and can be toxic to dogs
A Labrador retriever lies on the wooden floor next to a food bowl

Chocolate, grapes, table scraps: There are some foods every pet parent knows you shouldn't give to dogs, no matter how cute their puppy-dog eyes are. Unfortunately, many other foods contain several hidden ingredients that can be harmful to our furry friends. Take xylitol, for instance. You might not know exactly what it is, but it certainly sounds more like a musical instrument than an ingredient.

While it is perfectly fine for humans to ingest this sugar substitute, xylitol and dogs are another story. If you have questions, don't worry! We'll help you learn:

Read more
70 cute dog names for every vibe: From cottagecore to Y2K
These unique dog names are inspired by aesthetics, like barbiecore
A corgi dog standing in front of a pink background looks up and to the side with big eyes

If you spend enough time on social media -- particularly sites like TikTok, Pinterest, or Tumblr -- you'll become familiar with "aesthetics." These are moods or styles that influence art, clothing and decor choices, and even what someone posts online. Any vibe can be an aesthetic if it drives your style choices, so why not let your favorite aesthetics inspire your new dog's name as well?

These canine monikers range from timeless to eccentric (and everything in between), but they all have one thing in common: They're all sure to put a smile on your face. Whether they remind you of something adorable, something nostalgic, or something totally epic, these cute dog names are the perfect wealth of information to start your search with. We hope this list leaves you feeling inspired!
Cottagecore dog names inspired by the cute, woodsy aesthetic

Read more
Cavapoo dog breed: Everything to know about this adorable hybrid pup
Do Cavapoos make good pets?
A Cavapoo dog on the lawn with purple collar looking at camera

With curly-q fur, floppy ears, and tender, round brown eyes, the Cavapoo dog breed is a strong contender for the cutest dog ever. Yet, we're told not to judge books by their covers or humans by their looks. The same goes for a Cavapoo dog, especially one you hope to make a family member.

The good news? Cavapoos are sweethearts and often make excellent family pets. However, like all dogs, they have needs and are prone to specific health problems. Understanding how to care for one upfront can help you determine whether your home best fits a Cavapoo (or any pet). Here's what to know about the breed's physical appearance, health, and personality and tips on "raising one right."
Cavapoo dog breed: Physical characteristics and health

Read more