Favorite Things

We’ve curated a list of food puzzles, toys, training tools, and books that we frequently recommend. Everything here we have either used personally or have a trusted source who uses and also recommends them. Since we are Amazon Associates, we earn a commission from qualifying purchases, #commissonearned, at no additional cost to you, for any items purchased via these links. We also encourage you to patronize your local mom and pop pet supply store. We love to hear feedback about what we recommend, so please share your experiences with us!

Food Puzzles - Mental Exercise

dogs

Snuffle Mat - Snuffle mats of any size are perfect to use as a slow-feeder option or with treats to work those sniffers. These are machine washable.

ZogoFlex Toppl - Fill with a combo of wet and dry food and freeze. This has a wider opening than a Kong toy and comes in two sizes.

ZogoFlex Tux - Bouncy, floaty, and can fill with some treats too.

Outward Hound Slow Feeder Bowl - Durable, non-slip bottom, dishwasher safe.

Omega Tricky Treat Ball - Softer plastic, just fill with your dog’s kibble meal and let them push it around.

Nylabone Dura Chew toys - The ones for extreme chewers hold up well (but do wear down) and are dishwasher-safe. Smear with some peanut butter and freeze for a longer-lasting treat.

KONG Extreme Dog Toy - The classic - the extreme is for strong jaws.

Trixie Pets Mad Scientist - Get extra creative and teach your dog which tube to tip on cue! Left, right, middle. Teach them to tip with their nose or their paw. Lots of fun.

Aquapaw Slow Treater - Fill and freeze, then stick it to the wall. Great for bathtime, grooming, or to keep your pup in a set area - like away from the front door while guests arrive.

Hyper Pet Lickimat Slomo - Can be used with both wet and/or dry food.

Fun Mat Slow Feeder - Another slow feeder option

cats

Doc & Phoebe’s Indoor Hunting Cat Feeder

SlimCat Meal-Dispenser - Fill with your kitty’s kibble and let them hunt for it!

Hyper Pet Lickimat Feeding Plate - Use with canned food.



Books

The Puppy Primer by Patricia McConnell and Brenda Scidmore

Life Skills for Puppies by Helen Zulch and Daniel Mills

Love Has No Age Limit - Welcoming an Adopted Dog into Your Home by Patricia McConnell

The Other End of The Leash by Patricia McConnell

The Power of Positive Dog Training by Pat Miller

Don’t Shoot The Dog by Karen Pryor

Think Like a Cat by Pam Johnson-Bennett