Quick answer: The best enrichment toy depends on your dog's size and what they enjoy. Snuffle toys suit dogs who love to sniff and forage, lick mats suit calm treat time, and treat pocket toys suit dogs who like to work for food. Barke. Collection is an official Australian stockist of Lambwolf Collective, whose soft enrichment toys are designed for exactly this.
What is an enrichment toy?
An enrichment toy gives your dog a job to do, usually involving their nose. Instead of just chewing or fetching, they search, dig, lick or problem solve. This helps tire the brain, which many owners find calms a restless dog more than extra walking alone.
The main types
- Snuffle toys. Fabric toys with folds and pockets where you hide treats or kibble. Good for sniffers and for slowing down meals.
- Lick mats. Flat mats you spread with a soft food. Licking is often calming. See our guide to lick mats versus snuffle mats.
- Treat pocket toys. Soft toys with pockets for treats, often with a squeaker or crinkle for extra interest.
- Burrow toys. A toy with hidden pieces or a soft pouch that a dog digs into.
- Chews. For dogs who love to chew, a supervised chew like the Natural Seaweed Dog Bone can be a good match.
How to choose by size
Check the size tag on each product page. Small to medium toys suit dogs up to roughly the size of a beagle or cavoodle, and medium and larger toys suit bigger breeds. A toy that is too small can be swallowed, and one that is too large can frustrate a little dog.
Our picks
For small to medium dogs
- Toto in Marine, a squeaky snuffle ball.
- Red Pepper, snuffle plus squeaky.
- Banana Snuffle.
For medium and larger dogs
- Deep Dish Pizza, snuffle plus burrow.
- Guu Mushroom, a snuffle toy popular with customers.
- Large Baguette, squeaky and snuffle.
Browse the full enrichment toy collection. Many toys are low in stock, so check availability.
Safety tips
- Supervise your dog, especially with a new toy.
- Soft enrichment toys are for play and foraging, not for heavy chewers who tear fabric. Take the toy away if your dog starts shredding it.
- Use part of your dog's daily food as the treat, so extra calories do not add up.
- Wash toys regularly. See how often to wash dog toys.
Frequently asked questions
Are enrichment toys good for bored dogs?
Yes. Sniffing and problem solving use mental energy, which can help a bored dog settle. They work best alongside regular walks and play.
Can I leave my dog alone with an enrichment toy?
We recommend supervising, especially at first, until you know how your dog treats the toy.
Where can I buy Lambwolf Collective toys in Australia?
Barke. Collection is an official Australian stockist, with shipping from $9.95 Australia wide.
