This past winter where we live, has been long and dark. As a result, I had to find a way to keep my now senior dog engaged and working his brain. Happy dog, happy life, right? A great solution (referred to me by another dog owner) is the Nina Ottoson line of pet toys.

Toys and Options

Nina Ottoson specializes in creating toys that help dogs (and cats) do what comes natural to them: hunt. The company has a series of toys and each help your four legged creature practice new skills, and practice at different levels. The reward for hunting? Just some of their everyday kibble or a special treat or snack.

Toys are predominantly made out of plastic (at least the ones I have purchased) are washable (soap and water and top tray dishwasher safe), and come in all shapes and sizes. Many of them require our furry friends to use eyes, nose, paws, and sometimes a combination of all of the above. Treats are hidden in a vary of compartments and under levels and layers. Play time can vary and the first time, usually takes longer as the dog tries to figure out what movement they need to do, in order to uncover their treat.

Games come in 4 levels, and toys generally require a compartment from being swung open, a lever being tapped, or a cover being removed. Using their nose is a MUST!

Cost for the toys vary and depending on where you live can run anywhere from about $15 or so up to $30. They sometimes go on sale on amazon, and are available in pet stores.

Review

So far, we have used the Dog Tornado and the Dog Smart toys (and we have the Brick ready to go). My little pup loves both toys, and very quickly was able to figure out the “movement”. I was worried he wouldn’t get it, but I should have had more faith in my buddy!

He’s quickly mastered both games, and loves the challenge. He uses all of himself to pop compartments open, and uses his mouth, teeth, nose, and paws. He may struggle getting a compartment open, but once he picks up the scent, he is determined.

And after months of use, the toys show no signs of wear and tear. Very sturdy so far in fact!

He’s also an older dog and he loves these toys. So I think these toys will suit dogs young and old. I love that his brain is challenged and for 20 minutes or so, he is entertained and feeling “accomplished”.

I don’t know why I didn’t learn about these toys sooner. But I am glad that I did, today. So is Ziggy.

Bliss Reflection

It goes to say, watching any child or pet play gives you joy. I don’t need to over analyze it. Watching your furry friend get pleasure out of accomplishing a task, and being rewarded is just….fun. In many ways it’s therapeutic.

It’s a perfect way to unwind, and for a brief moment, forget about what is happening at your office. The power of play I guess. I guess I just realized its my own way of being in the moment, and allowing myself and him, just have a good time – no judgement, and no expectations. It’s just a moment of pure bliss!

Note: I have not received any payment or incentive or any other forms of promotion from Nina Ottoson. This review is my own.

Bliss Finds and Facts

• Nina Ottoson has a very informative website that can help you decide which toy is best for your furry friend – cats and dogs alike. The site also helps you purchase toys best on levels of difficulty – level 1 for easier games and level 4 for the most challenging. We are in Level 1 and 2.
• For folks looking to marry high tech and interactive pet toys, look into some of these suggestions.