Of the more than $58 billion Americans are expected to spend on their pets this year, more and more dog owners are buying interactive toys and puzzles.
For example, an automatic ball called "iFetch" launcher trains dogs to play fetch on their own. The "Tidy Dog" teaches pups to put away toys, dispensing a treat each time one drops in the bin! The app "App For Dog" allows dogs to paw paint on a smartphone screen. Another toy "KONG" challenges your pet to forage for food inside.
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Interactive devices designed to work the canine mind are taking off. Twenty-three percent of dog owners buy their pooches treat filled puzzles like the Dog Tornado or food dispensing toys like the P.L.A.Y Wobble Ball Toy. (See additional links to toys and puzzles at the end of this story.)
"We have seen one company that was the pioneer, to countless companies now coming out with a full range, from super simple to very sophisticated, we definitely see growth," said Tierra Bonaldi with the American Pet Products Association.
But can these toys help you judge if your dog is a real genius?
"I hate to admit it but I don't think so," said Dr. Marie Hopfensperger, a veterinarian and animal behaviorist. "What I do think is there are dogs with different skill sets and that there are some that are going to be really persistent at trying to figure out a puzzle toy and others that might not be motivated."
Experts do say these gadgets can be great stimulation for dogs. Certified trainer Kate Connell says they can aid in training and keep your dog active and have different benefits for different pet personalities.
"I found it can be very helpful to increase confidence in nervous dogs, because they can learn how to accomplish something on their own without your help," she said.
By pinpointing your dog's puzzle-solving strengths, you can find the toys they love.
"Some dogs are a lot more persistent about trying to figure out problems and we would call those independent learners," said Hopfensperger. "There are other dogs who might try a couple times and if they can't figure it out they might look to their owners and say, 'Hey can you help me out here?'"
But, experts have some precautions about these kinds of pet products. They say if you're going to download an app to entertain your dog be careful your pet doesn't damage your device. They also warn owners to keep an eye on their pets while they play with other toys, too.
"It's really important to keep safety in mind when using dog puzzle toys, especially ones that have moving pieces that can be removed. Those are the ones that you definitely want to supervise your dog using to make sure they don't run off with it and try and eat it," said Connell.
Connell also recommends swapping pooch puzzles with other dog owners. That way your dog has access to new challenges and you can save some money.
And experts say to keep in mind these puzzles are not supposed to be a replacement for walking and exercising your dog. Most pooches still need plenty of activity.
Additional links to toys and puzzles for your pet: