What kind of toys for dogs outside are available? Discover a wide variety of choices!
So, I’ve got this super energetic golden retriever, Max. He’s a good boy, but keeping him entertained, especially outside, was a real challenge. I needed to find some toys that could withstand his love for chewing and also keep him engaged in our big backyard.
First things first, I started looking for tough toys. Max can destroy a regular toy in minutes. I remembered reading something about hard rubber toys being good for heavy chewers, so I went with that. I picked up a couple of Gnawflex Kettlebells – they looked pretty durable, and the shape seemed interesting. It claimed to be an all-weather toy, which is great because Max loves being outside, rain or shine.
- Gnawflex Kettlebell: Seemed tough, good for all weather.
Then I thought about mental stimulation. I didn’t want Max to just mindlessly chew; I wanted him to use his brain too. I came across these things called puzzle toys. The idea is you put treats or kibble inside, and the dog has to figure out how to get them out. It sounded perfect! I got him a Buster Cube and a Kong Wobble. I also picked up a West Paw Skamp Fetch Dog Toy since I found it recommended online and it looked good.
- Buster Cube: Puzzle toy to keep him mentally stimulated.
- Kong Wobble: Another puzzle toy, seemed like a fun challenge.
- Skamp Fetch Dog Toy: A good fetch toy.
With these new toys, I started playing with Max in the backyard differently. I’d fill up the puzzle toys and let him go at them. It was hilarious watching him roll the Buster Cube around, trying to get the treats out. The Kong Wobble was even better because it wobbles unpredictably, and he’d chase it all over the yard.
The Gnawflex Kettlebells were a hit too. I’d toss them, and he’d fetch them, chewing on them happily. They’ve held up really well, even with his constant chewing. They are indeed all-weather. We even started playing fetch in a nearby park with the Skamp, and I noticed it’s waterproof, which is amazing.
But I didn’t stop there. I got this crazy idea to make our yard into a giant game for Max. I started hiding his favorite treats and toys around the yard. At first, he was confused, but once he caught on, he loved it! It became our little game – “hide and seek” with treats. It’s so much fun watching him sniff around, tail wagging, trying to find all the hidden goodies. Sometimes I’d just toss a handful of his regular kibble into the grass, making mealtime an adventure.
Honestly, these changes have made a huge difference. Max is happier, more engaged, and definitely less destructive. He’s getting both physical and mental exercise, which is exactly what he needed. Plus, it’s been a blast for me too. I love watching him have fun and figure things out. It’s like we’ve got our own little world of games in the backyard now. If you’ve got an energetic dog, I highly recommend trying some of these ideas. It’s been a game-changer for us!
What I learned:
- Tough rubber toys are a lifesaver for heavy chewers.
- Puzzle toys are amazing for mental stimulation.
- Turning your yard into a playground can be super fun for both of you.
