by Rebecca · Last updated Aug 2, 2026
Enrichment isn't just an unnecessary bonus activity. It's essential for a happy, well-balanced dog. The right activities burn mental energy, reduce boredom-driven behaviors like chewing and digging, and give your dog a healthy outlet for natural instincts like foraging and problem-solving. If you're dealing with an especially energetic or high-drive dog, these toys can be a complete game-changer, turning restless energy into focused, satisfied tired. Here are ten favorites — some are Ivy's personal go-tos, others earned their spot through research.
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Ivy has always been a picky eater, but these pupsicles get her every time. It's the perfect amount of enrichment for her stamina. It has even become my go-to gift for friends and family who bring home a new dog, and it's one of the only toys that's survived Ivy's chewing since puppyhood. The popsicle mold that's included is great, and I like to freeze my own fillings: pumpkin, broth with rice and chicken, or safe leftovers straight from the fridge.
You can't go wrong with a lick mat — it's perfect for keeping dogs entertained or distracted, especially when you're trying to groom them or just get them to calm down. The suction actually holds, which makes it easy to stick right to the tub or floor when you need it. It's a great trick for turning nail trims from a wrestling match into a non-event.
Fill it with your dog's favorite treats and watch them go to work — it's satisfying to see them figure it out. Start slow: place some easy treats on or near the puzzle at first, and most dogs pick up the pattern quickly from there. It's a great way to turn a few minutes of mealtime or downtime into real mental engagement.
Another one of Ivy's favorites — we actually keep one in almost every room. It works for tug, fetch, and solo enrichment, so it's an easy grab no matter what kind of play your dog is in the mood for. That kind of versatility makes it one of the toys that earns its keep.
This one feels like a trick, but I promise your dog is having fun. Layer in some yogurt or peanut butter, or even freeze something tasty inside, and the wobble turns a simple treat into a full mental workout. It's an easy way to slow down a fast eater without any extra effort on your part.
Don't let the name fool you — this isn't just for water days. It's great for regular fetch or tug sessions too, and it holds up to serious durability testing without falling apart. A solid pick for dogs who play rough and don't know the meaning of "gentle."
Chewing on something that isn't your shoe is a real enrichment activity, and bully sticks are a great way to satisfy that instinct, long-lasting too, since it takes Ivy about 15-20 minutes to work through one. They come with solid dental benefits on top of keeping her busy. The holder makes the whole thing safer and less messy, so you get the full stick's worth of chew time without worrying about the last bite becoming a hazard.
Think of it like a soft puzzle. Your dog pulls the squeaky squirrels out one by one, and then you get to stuff them all back in for round two. It's a low-key way to work their brain without the noise or mess of a harder plastic puzzle toy.
A solid alternative to the classic white chew bone, with a bit more personality. It's freezer-safe, so you can turn it into a longer-lasting chew whenever your dog needs something to work on for a while.
Every dog is different, so it's worth trying a few types before landing on your rotation — some dogs are all about the chase, others just want to sniff something out at their own pace. Looking for more finds like this? Browse the rest of the Dogs guides.
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