Food dispensing toys have changed the way we engage with our canine companions, offering both mental stimulation and physical activity. These toys challenge dogs to think, problem-solve, and stay active, all while rewarding them with treats. Let’s explore the world of food dispensing toys and the different designs and features to consider when choosing one for your pup.

Why Give Your Pup a Food Dispensing Toy

Our dogs are naturally curious and active creatures. Without adequate stimulation, they can develop undesirable behaviours, such as excessive barking, chewing on furniture, or digging. Food dispensing toys address this by providing:

• Mental stimulation: Engaging a dog's brain helps prevent boredom and related behavioural issues.
• Physical Activity: Encouraging movement with a food dispensing toy that rolls. There are many food dispensing toys that roll, and they’re especially great because they encourage your dog to chase and nudge to get the treats out. Rolling toys add a physical activity element that may aid in maintaining a healthy weight while also engaging your dog’s problem-solving skills.
• Slow Feeding: For dogs that eat too quickly, these toys can slow down mealtime, reducing the risk of digestive issues.
• Building Independence: Your pups can learn to entertain themselves, fostering confidence and reducing separation anxiety. 

How to Select a Food Dispensing Toy

When selecting a food dispensing toy, keep the following factors in mind:

1. Durability: Ensure the toy can withstand your dog's chewing habits.
2. Size Appropriateness: Choose a toy that matches your dog's size to prevent choking hazards.
3. Ease of Cleaning: Opt for toys that are simple to clean to maintain hygiene.
4. Adjustable Difficulty: Some toys offer varying levels of difficulty to keep your dog challenged.
5. Safety: Ensure the toy is made of non-toxic materials and doesn't have small parts that can be swallowed.

Top 5 Food Dispensing Toys from Good Dog People™

Here are five standout food dispensing toys from our webstore.

1. KONG Wobbler Interactive Dog Toy 

The KONG Wobbler is a classic in the realm of food dispensing toys. Shaped like the iconic KONG, it stands upright until nudged by a dog's paw or nose, dispensing treats as it wobbles, spins, and rolls. Its unpredictable movement keeps dogs engaged and challenged. Additionally, it can serve as an alternative to a dog bowl, promoting slower eating habits. The Wobbler is dishwasher safe and unscrews easily for filling and cleaning.

Why we like this toy:

• Unpredictable Movement: Keeps dogs engaged longer.
• Dual Functionality: Serves as both a toy and a slow feeder.
• Easy Maintenance: Simple to fill and clean.  

2. Kong Gyro Interactive Dog Toy

The KONG Gyro is an interactive treat-dispensing toy designed to captivate dogs with its dynamic movement. It features a central spinning orb encased within a static outer ring. When filled with treats or kibble, dogs are encouraged to push, paw, and roll the Gyro, triggering an engaging roll and flip action that dispenses rewards intermittently.

Why we like this toy:

• Interactive Engagement: The Gyro's unique design promotes active play, stimulating both the mind and body as dogs work to release the treats.
• Dual-Purpose Design: Serves as both a treat-dispensing toy and a slow feeder, catering to dogs that benefit from extended mealtime engagement.
• Ease of Use: The toy is simple to fill and clean, with a twist-off top that allows for quick access to the treat compartment.

3. Ruffwear Gnawt-a-Rock™ Treat Dispenser

The Gnawt-a-Rock may look like a piece of obsidian, but it’s a highly durable dispensing toy crafted from natural latex rubber. Its faceted surface and irregular shape create an unpredictable bounce, keeping dogs engaged during play. The internal chamber can be filled with kibble or small treats, challenging your dog to nuzzle and nose the toy to release the rewards.

Why we like this toy:

• Durable Construction: Made from chew-resistant natural latex rubber, ensuring longevity even with enthusiastic chewers.
• Unpredictable Bounce: The irregular shape adds an element of surprise, enhancing interactive play sessions.
• Easy to Clean: The material is dishwasher safe, making maintenance straightforward. The Gnawt-a-Rock™'s unique shape prevents it from rolling under furniture easily, keeping playtime uninterrupted!

4. Wild One Bolt Bite Dog Chew Toy

The Wild One Bolt Bite is a versatile chew toy designed with a reinforced centre and two open ends that allow for the insertion of treats or spreads, like peanut butter. Its unique shape features two elbows, facilitating engaging paw-play and making it easy for dogs to hold during chewing sessions.

Why we like this toy:

• Dual Treat Chambers: The two open ends can be filled with treats or spreads, providing extended playtime and mental stimulation.
• Durable Construction: Made from 100% natural rubber, it's designed to withstand moderate chewing, catering to both teething puppies and adult dogs.
• Freezer-Friendly: Owners can freeze the toy with spreads inside, offering a longer-lasting and soothing treat experience.
• Easy Maintenance: The Bolt Bite is dishwasher safe (top rack), ensuring hassle-free cleaning.

5. Ruffwear Morel™ Chew Resistant Treat Dispensing Dog Toy

The Ruffwear Morel™ is a durable, chew-resistant dog toy designed to function both as an enrichment tool and a slow feeder. Inspired by nature, its two-piece design—comprising a cap and stem—can be easily pulled apart to reveal an internal chamber. This chamber can be filled with your dog's favourite treats or an entire meal, promoting mental stimulation and longer feeding times. 

Why we like this toy:

• Dual-Purpose Design: Serves as both a treat-dispensing toy and a slow feeder, catering to dogs that benefit from extended mealtime engagement.
• Chew-Resistant Material: Crafted from natural latex rubber, it withstands moderate chewing, ensuring durability.
• Easy to Clean: The toy is dishwasher safe and approved by the FDA for food contact, simplifying maintenance.
• Stability During Play: The toy's design prevents excessive rolling, keeps it in place, and minimises frustration for your dog. Unlike many treat-dispensing toys that roll unpredictably, the Porcini™ remains relatively stationary, making it ideal for dogs that may become frustrated with constantly moving toys.

Many pet owners can attest that food dispensing is a fun and rewarding way to challenge their canine companions. These dispensing toys are invaluable tools in slowing down our pup’s eating speed and keeping them engaged and satisfied for longer.

KATHERINE KHOO

Katherine is a Pet Nutrition Specialist and GDP’s Pet Wellness Advisor. She is committed to helping pet owners make informed dietary and lifestyle choices in nurturing healthy pets. Katherine is also a practicing Nutritional Therapist (human nutrition) and has been helping hundreds of clients to heal naturally with nutrients.