๐Ÿ† Complete Buyer's Guide ยท Dog Care Products

Expert Picks: Best Dog Clickers for Rainy Days 2026

Keep your pup entertained indoors with expert-recommended dog clickers. Top pick is the KONG Classic Toy, perfect for mental stimulation on rainy days to prevent boredom and destructive behavior.

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KONG Classic Dog Toy โ˜… Top Pick: KONG Classic Dog Toy Check Price on Amazon →
30+ minutes
Average engagement time
5 sizes
Size options for all breeds
Non-toxic
Material safety standard
4.5 stars
Average customer rating
โšก Key takeaways
  • Best Overall: KONG Classic Dog Toy. The KONG Classic is a versatile rubber toy that can be stuffed with treats or peanut butte.
  • Best for Aggressive Chewers: West Paw Zogoflex Hurley Dog Bone. Made from tough, non-toxic Zogoflex material, the Hurley bone is built for heavy chewers.
  • Best Puzzle Toy: Outward Hound Nina Ottosson Dog Puzzle. This interactive puzzle challenges dogs to slide compartments to find treats, engaging the.
  • Best Dental Chew: Greenies Regular Dental Dog Treats. Greenies are VOHC-accepted dental chews that help reduce plaque and tartar while freshenin.
  • Best Budget: Nylabone Dura Chew Bone. The Nylabone Dura Chew is an affordable, durable nylon bone that satisfies chewing instinc.
At a Glance

Quick Comparison

Quick answer

For rainy day enrichment, our editorial team recommends the KONG Classic as the best overall pick. It’s durable, can be stuffed with treats or peanut butter, and provides lasting mental stimulation. If your dog is an aggressive chewer, consider the West Paw Zogoflex Hurley. For a budget-friendly option, the Nylabone Dura Chew is a solid choice.

What to consider for Dog Clicker For Rainy Days

Rainy days often mean less outdoor exercise, so your dog may have pent-up energy. The right toy or chew should provide mental stimulation and physical activity indoors. Consider your dog’s chewing strength, size, and preferences. Interactive toys like puzzle feeders or treat-dispensing chews can keep them occupied for longer periods. Safety is paramount: avoid toys that can be easily destroyed or swallowed, and always supervise your dog with new items.

What to look for in a toy or chew (chew toy, puzzle, lick mat or dental chew)

When choosing a toy or chew for rainy days, look for: a size appropriate to the dog to avoid choking, durability matched to chew strength, non-toxic materials, a VOHC seal for dental chews, and genuine enrichment value. For example, puzzle toys should challenge but not frustrate your dog. Dental chews with the VOHC seal help reduce plaque and tartar. Always check that the product is made from safe, non-toxic materials.

How we chose these picks

  • Evaluated product durability based on manufacturer claims and customer feedback.
  • Assessed safety features including non-toxic materials and choking hazard prevention.
  • Considered enrichment value: how well the toy engages a dog mentally and physically.
  • Reviewed suitability for different chewing strengths and dog sizes.
  • Checked for VOHC acceptance on dental chews.
  • Included products from reputable brands with positive reviews.
  • Focused on toys that are easy to clean and maintain.
  • Never ranked a product higher just because it pays a commission.

What to avoid

  • Toys small enough to swallow or choke on.
  • Hard chews that can crack teeth, like antlers or bones.
  • Falling-apart toys that shed pieces, which can cause intestinal blockages.
  • Leaving a heavy chewer unsupervised with any chew toy.

For more guidance, explore our dog guides and check out dog health and dog care products.

Why this matters

Rainy days often lead to reduced physical exercise, making mental stimulation through toys and chews crucial for preventing boredom-related behaviors like destructive chewing or excessive barking.

The Options

Types Explained

Chew Toys

Durable toys designed for chewing, often made of rubber or nylon. They satisfy natural chewing instincts and can be stuffed with treats for added interest.

Best for: Dogs that need to chew and can handle moderate to heavy chewing.

Puzzle Toys

Interactive toys that require the dog to solve a puzzle to access treats. They provide mental stimulation and can slow down fast eaters.

Best for: Bored dogs that need mental challenges and enjoy problem-solving.

Lick Mats

Flat mats with ridges and textures that you spread soft food on. Dogs lick the food off, which can be calming and rewarding.

Best for: Anxious dogs or those who need a calming activity; also great for slow feeding.

Dental Chews

Edible chews that help clean teeth and freshen breath. Many are VOHC-accepted and made with digestible ingredients.

Best for: Dogs that need dental care and enjoy a tasty, short-lasting chew.
The Rankings

Top 5 Picks

#1
KONG Classic Dog Toy
Best Overall

KONG Classic Dog Toy

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The KONG Classic is a versatile rubber toy that can be stuffed with treats or peanut butter, providing hours of mental stimulation on rainy days. It's durable and comes in multiple sizes. However, it may not withstand extreme chewers for long, and the hollow center requires effort to clean thoroughly.

#2
West Paw Zogoflex Hurley Dog Bone
Best for Aggressive Chewers

West Paw Zogoflex Hurley Dog Bone

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Made from tough, non-toxic Zogoflex material, the Hurley bone is built for heavy chewers. It floats, bounces, and is dishwasher safe. The trade-off is that it's less interactive than puzzle toys, and some dogs may lose interest without treat stuffing.

#3
Outward Hound Nina Ottosson Dog Puzzle
Best Puzzle Toy

Outward Hound Nina Ottosson Dog Puzzle

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This interactive puzzle challenges dogs to slide compartments to find treats, engaging their problem-solving skills. It's great for mental exercise on rainy days. However, it's not suitable for aggressive chewers who might destroy the plastic components.

#4
Greenies Regular Dental Dog Treats
Best Dental Chew

Greenies Regular Dental Dog Treats

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Greenies are VOHC-accepted dental chews that help reduce plaque and tartar while freshening breath. They are digestible and come in sizes for all dog breeds. A limitation is that they are consumable and not long-lasting, so they may not occupy a dog for extended periods.

#5
Nylabone Dura Chew Bone
Best Budget

Nylabone Dura Chew Bone

View on Amazon

The Nylabone Dura Chew is an affordable, durable nylon bone that satisfies chewing instincts. It has ridges that help clean teeth and comes in flavors. However, it can be too hard for some dogs, potentially causing tooth damage if chewed aggressively.

Before You Buy

Key Buying Factors

01

Chew Strength

Match the toy's durability to your dog's chewing style. Light chewers can handle softer rubber or plush toys, while aggressive chewers need tough materials like hard nylon or reinforced rubber.

02

Size Appropriateness

Choose a toy that is large enough not to be swallowed. A good rule is that the toy should be bigger than your dog's mouth opening. For puppies, ensure the toy is sized for their smaller jaws.

03

Enrichment Value

Look for toys that engage your dog mentally, such as puzzle feeders or treat-dispensing toys. These can help alleviate boredom and prevent destructive behavior on rainy days.

04

Safety and Materials

Ensure the toy is made from non-toxic materials, free from BPA, phthalates, and lead. Dental chews should have the VOHC seal for proven effectiveness.

05

Ease of Cleaning

Toys that can be washed in the dishwasher or with soap and water are easier to maintain. Avoid toys with crevices that trap bacteria unless they are dishwasher safe.

Living With It

Care, Cost and Maintenance

Cleaning Rubber and Nylon Toys

Wash rubber toys with warm soapy water or in the dishwasher (top rack). Nylon toys can be scrubbed with a brush and mild detergent. Rinse thoroughly and air dry. Replace if cracked or pieces break off.

Cleaning Puzzle Toys and Lick Mats

Puzzle toys with compartments can be hand washed or placed in the dishwasher if labeled safe. Lick mats are usually dishwasher safe. Ensure all food residue is removed to prevent mold.

Storing and Inspecting Chews

Store dental chews in a cool, dry place. Inspect chew toys regularly for wear and tear. Discard if they become small enough to swallow or show sharp edges. Supervise your dog during use.

Pro tip

Rotate your dog's toys every few days to maintain novelty and interest. A toy that has been hidden for a week can feel like new again, keeping your dog engaged even on the rainiest days.

Frequently asked questions

Are these toys safe for heavy chewers?
Some toys are specifically designed for heavy chewers, such as those made from tough rubber or nylon. However, no toy is indestructible. Always supervise your dog and inspect the toy regularly for damage. Replace it if pieces break off to prevent choking or intestinal blockage. For extreme chewers, consider products like West Paw or Goughnuts that offer durability guarantees.
How do I choose the right size toy for my dog?
The toy should be large enough that your dog cannot swallow it whole. A general rule is that the toy should be bigger than your dog's mouth opening. For puppies, choose toys sized for their breed and age. Always refer to the manufacturer's size guide based on your dog's weight. A toy that is too small poses a choking hazard.
Should I supervise my dog with chew toys?
Yes, always supervise your dog with any chew toy, especially if it is new or if your dog is an aggressive chewer. Supervision allows you to remove the toy if it becomes damaged or if your dog starts to choke. It also helps prevent ingestion of non-food items. Never leave your dog unattended with a chew toy that can be broken into small pieces.
What are the benefits of dental chews?
Dental chews can help reduce plaque and tartar buildup, freshen breath, and promote overall oral health. Look for chews with the Veterinary Oral Health Council (VOHC) seal, which indicates they have been proven effective in clinical trials. However, they should not replace regular tooth brushing. Always choose a chew appropriate for your dog's size and chewing style.
Can puzzle toys really help with boredom on rainy days?
Yes, puzzle toys are excellent for mental stimulation. They challenge your dog to solve a problem to access treats, which can alleviate boredom and reduce destructive behaviors. Start with easier puzzles and gradually increase difficulty. Rotate toys to keep them novel. However, some dogs may become frustrated if the puzzle is too hard, so choose one that matches your dog's skill level.
What is the difference between digestible and non-digestible chews?
Digestible chews, like Greenies or rawhide alternatives, are meant to be consumed and broken down in the digestive system. Non-digestible chews, such as nylon or rubber bones, are not meant to be eaten and should be discarded if they become small enough to swallow. Always supervise your dog with non-digestible chews to prevent ingestion of large pieces.
How do I clean rubber chew toys?
Most rubber toys can be cleaned with warm soapy water or placed on the top rack of the dishwasher. For toys with small holes, use a bottle brush to remove residue. Rinse thoroughly and let them air dry. Avoid using harsh chemicals. Regular cleaning prevents bacteria buildup, especially for toys that are used with food.
What should I do if my dog swallows a piece of a toy?
If your dog swallows a small piece of a toy, monitor for signs of distress such as vomiting, lethargy, loss of appetite, or difficulty defecating. Contact your veterinarian immediately if you notice any symptoms. To prevent this, always supervise chewing and discard toys that show wear. Choose toys appropriate for your dog's size and chewing strength.
Are there any safety concerns with puzzle toys?
Puzzle toys are generally safe, but ensure they are made from non-toxic materials and have no small parts that can be chewed off. Some dogs may try to chew the puzzle itself, so choose a durable model if your dog is a chewer. Always supervise initial use to ensure your dog does not become frustrated or aggressive with the toy.
A note on advice: This guide is general information, not a substitute for professional veterinary advice. Talk to your vet before changing your pet's diet or care routine, especially if your pet has allergies, kidney disease, pancreatitis, obesity, heart disease or any other medical condition.
Transparency

How we made this guide

How we chose. We compared the options on the factors that matter most for Dog Care Products, using manufacturer specifications, aggregated verified owner reviews and editorial comparison. We rank independently: no brand pays for placement, and affiliate commissions never influence our picks.

How it was written. This guide was researched, reviewed and edited by the ProPawPicks editorial team for accuracy and usefulness. We have not personally tested every product; where we have not, rankings rely on verified specs, owner feedback and expert comparison rather than a hands-on review.

Affiliate disclosure. ProPawPicks is reader-supported. If you buy through links on our site, we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. See our affiliate disclosure.

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Sources and further reading

Some links below are affiliate links. If you buy through them we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Our rankings are based on product research, label data and suitability, not on commissions.