How to Make Any Toy More Engaging

You don't always need a new toy. Sometimes you just need to make the toys you already have more interesting.

Here are the most effective ways to boost any toy's engagement factor — so your dog actually uses it instead of ignoring it.

1. Add Scent

Scent is everything to a dog. A toy that smells interesting is a toy worth investigating.

• Rub the toy with your hands — your scent alone makes it more appealing
• Rub a small amount of peanut butter or cheese on the surface
• Store the toy in a bag with some treats overnight so it absorbs the smell

For toys that already have scent built in, the Magicorange Bacon Flavored Chew Toys and Benebone Peanut Butter Wishbone are hard to beat — the flavor is baked in, not sprayed on, so it lasts.

2. Add Treats

Turn any toy into a treat-dispensing toy. Stuff a hollow rubber toy with peanut butter, kibble, or wet food. Freeze it for an even longer-lasting challenge.

The Yipetor Frozen Treat Dispensing Toy is designed exactly for this — easy to fill, easy to freeze, and dogs go absolutely crazy for it.

3. Make It Move

A stationary toy is boring. A moving toy triggers prey drive. Wiggle it, drag it across the floor, toss it and let it bounce. Even 30 seconds of animated introduction can completely change how your dog sees a toy.

4. Play With It Yourself First

Dogs take social cues from their owners. If you pick up a toy and act like it's the most exciting thing in the world, your dog will want in. Examine it, toss it between your hands, make sounds. Then offer it to your dog.

5. Rotate Toys Weekly

Novelty drives engagement. A toy that's been away for a week feels brand new. Keep 2-3 toys out at a time and rotate the rest. This simple habit keeps every toy feeling fresh.

6. Use Toys During Training

If your dog loves treats, use a toy as the reward during a training session. Once a toy is associated with positive experiences and your attention, it becomes significantly more valuable to your dog.

7. Hide It

Hide the toy under a blanket, behind a chair, or inside a box. The hunt makes the find more rewarding. This works especially well with the Snuffle Ball Foraging Toy — hide treats inside and let your dog sniff it out.

The Bottom Line

The best toy is the one your dog actually uses. A little creativity in how you present it makes all the difference. Try one of these techniques today and watch your dog's interest level change immediately.