DIY Dog Toys: Week 2 - Treat and Puzzle Toys for Your Doberman

Welcome to Week 2 of our DIY Dog Toy series! This week, we'll explore the world of treat-dispensing toys that challenge your Doberman's mind and reward their efforts. These fun puzzles and toys will keep your intelligent pup busy and entertained.

1. Tennis Ball Treat Dispenser

Make treat time fun with a tennis ball that dispenses treats. Your Doberman will love working to get the treats out!

Materials Needed:

• T ennis ball, sharp knife or scissors, small treats or kibble

Instructions: 

1. Using a sharp knife or scissors, carefully cut a small slit in the side of the tennis ball.
2. Make sure the slit is large enough to fit small treats or kibble inside.
3. Fill the tennis ball with treats, ensuring they are small enough to easily dispense through the slit.
4. Once filled, your tennis ball treat dispenser is ready for your dog to enjoy! Make sure to supervise your dog during play.

2. Cardboard Box Puzzle

A cardboard box puzzle is an inexpensive way to stimulate your Doberman's brain. Hide treats or kibble inside and watch your pup figure out how to get them.

Materials Needed:

• Cardboard box, treats or kibble

Instructions: 

1. Take a cardboard box and cut several small holes of varying sizes in the sides and top.
2. Hide treats or kibble inside the box, making sure they are not easily accessible.
3. Close the box and let your dog figure out how to get the treats out by sniffing and pawing at the holes.
4. Supervise your dog during play and provide encouragement as they solve the puzzle.

3. Puzzle Box

Create a challenging puzzle box by cutting holes of various sizes and shapes. Your Doberman will have a blast trying to retrieve the hidden treats inside.

Materials Needed:

• Cardboard box, scissors or utility knife, treats or kibble 

Instructions: 

1. Take a cardboard box and cut several small holes of different sizes in the top or sides.
2. Place treats or kibble inside the box, ensuring they are not easily accessible.
3. Close the box and watch as your dog uses their problem-solving skills to retrieve the treats by pawing and sniffing through the holes.
4. Encourage and reward your dog as they successfully solve the puzzle.

4. Treat-Dispensing Bottle

Cut holes in a plastic bottle to transform it into a treat-dispensing toy. Fill it with your dog's favorite snacks, and watch them work hard for their rewards!

Materials Needed:

• Plastic bottle with cap, sharp knife or scissors, treats or kibble

Instructions: 

1. Take a plastic bottle and thoroughly clean and dry it.
2. Using a sharp knife or scissors, carefully cut several small holes in the sides of the bottle.
3. Fill the bottle with treats or kibble through the opening at the top.
4. Screw the cap back on and let your dog roll and bat the bottle around to dispense the treats through the holes.
5. Supervise your dog during play and refill the bottle as needed.

5. Tennis Ball Launcher

Combine a tennis ball with a stick to create a launcher that keeps your Doberman entertained. Launching treats just got easier!

Materials Needed:

• Tennis ball, long stick or pole

Instructions: 

1. Using a sharp knife or scissors, carefully cut a small slit in the side of the tennis ball.
2. Insert the end of a long stick or pole into the slit until it is securely attached to the ball.
3. Hold onto the other end of the stick or pole and use it to launch the tennis ball for your dog to chase and fetch.
4. Make sure to supervise your dog during play and choose an appropriate location for launching the ball.

Wrapping Up Week 2

These DIY treat-dispensing and puzzle toys will keep your Doberman mentally stimulated and engaged. Tune in next week as we dive into sensory and chew toys designed to satisfy your pup's natural instincts.

Check out Week 1