Quick answer: The best toys for bored dogs are enrichment toys that make them sniff and work for treats, like the Dog Snuffle Mat or the Rubber Treat Ball. Pair one with a favorite squeaky or tug toy and rotate them to keep your dog engaged.
Last updated: September 29, 2026. Prices were checked on this date and may change.
Best Dog Toys at a Glance
| Best for | Our pick | From |
|---|---|---|
| Best for bored dogs | Dog Snuffle Mat | $24.64 |
| Best treat dispenser | Rubber Treat Ball Dog Toy | $8.20 |
| Best interactive / electric | Interactive Plush Jumping Ball | $32.73 |
| Best squeaky plush | Plush Octopus Dog Toy | $15.84 |
| Best for tug | Cute Animal Rope Dog Toy | $15.33 |
| Best for slow eating | Rolling Treat Ball Slow Feeder | $34.32 |
How We Picked
We compared the dog toys in the Bloom & Sway range on the kind of play they encourage (sniffing, chewing, chasing, tugging or puzzle-solving), material, size options, safety guidance and price. We gave extra weight to enrichment toys that make dogs work for food, because they keep dogs busy longest. All picks are products we sell, and each links to its full product page so you can check sizes and materials before you buy.
How to Choose a Dog Toy
- Enrichment first: Toys that hide food or treats give the longest-lasting mental exercise.
- Size: Choose a toy too large to swallow.
- Play style: Chewers need rubber, tuggers need rope, and cuddlers love plush.
- Safety: Supervise play and replace toys once they're damaged.
1. Dog Snuffle Mat: Best for Bored Dogs
Hide kibble or treats in the Dog Snuffle Mat and let your dog sniff them out. Sniffing is natural, calming work for dogs and it slows down fast eaters too.
Specs: polar fleece · 1 or 2 mats · suits puppies, adult and senior dogs of any size.
2. Rubber Treat Ball: Best Treat Dispenser
Stuff the Rubber Treat Ball with snacks and your dog will roll, bat and chew to get them out. Available in 5cm and 7cm for small and medium dogs.
Specs: natural rubber · 5 cm or 7 cm · 6 colors · textured surface helps clean teeth.
3. Interactive Plush Jumping Ball: Best Electric Toy
The rechargeable Interactive Plush Jumping Ball bounces and plays sounds to get lazy dogs moving, a fun option for indoor play.
Specs: plastic core with fleece plush cover · USB rechargeable battery · 3 designs.
4. Plush Octopus: Best Squeaky Plush
With a squeaker and dangly legs for shaking, the Plush Octopus Dog Toy is a cuddly favorite. Also try the Squeaky Crinkle Plush with crinkly ears and rope legs.
Specs: soft fleece · built-in squeaker · 1 or 2 pack.
5. Cute Animal Rope Toy: Best for Tug
The Cute Animal Rope Dog Toy combines a squeaky plush animal with a knotted rope, great for tug-of-war and fetch. Choose from 14 animals.
Specs: plush body with cotton rope · 14 animal styles · lightweight enough for puppies.
6. Rolling Treat Ball Slow Feeder: Best for Slow Eating
The Rolling Treat Ball Slow Feeder turns mealtime into a puzzle, helping fast eaters slow down while keeping their minds busy.
Specs: ABS plastic · 36.5 × 26.5 × 32 cm · 660 g · green or blue · suits dogs and cats.
Frequently Asked Questions
What toys keep a bored dog busy?
Enrichment toys that make dogs work for food, such as snuffle mats, treat balls and puzzle feeders, keep dogs busy longer than toys they can simply chew.
What is the best toy for a dog left alone?
A food-dispensing toy is a good choice for alone time because it rewards your dog for playing. Always choose a toy that is the right size and durable enough for your dog, and supervise first uses.
Are squeaky toys good for dogs?
Most dogs love squeaky toys because the sound mimics prey. Supervise play and replace toys once the squeaker or seams are damaged.
How many toys should a dog have?
A small rotation works well. Offer a few toys at a time and swap them every few days so they stay interesting.
How do I choose the right size dog toy?
Pick a toy too big to be swallowed. Small dogs suit smaller plush and 5cm balls; bigger dogs need larger, tougher toys.
Shop All Dog Toys
Browse our full range of dog toys and grab walk-time gear from our Dog Walking Essentials collection.