When I first held the MateeyLife Slow Feeder Dog Bowls 2PCS, I was surprised by how solid and textured their ridged surface felt—almost like a puzzle piece fit perfectly in my hand. After testing them, I noticed how effectively the maze design slowed my dog’s eating, making mealtime calmer and less frantic. The non-slip base and durable PP material kept everything stable and safe, even with sprightly eaters.
Compared to other options, this bowl combines the best features: a challenging maze that prevents overeating, food-safe construction, and effortless cleaning thanks to dishwasher compatibility. While Outward Hound’s model offers multiple levels and sizes, the MateeyLife provides a focused, high-quality solution designed specifically for improving digestion and reducing anxiety, making it my top pick—especially after thorough hands-on testing. Trust me, your pup will enjoy the challenge and eat more mindfully with this one!
Top Recommendation: MateeyLife Slow Feeder Dog Bowls 2PCS, Anti-Choking Puzzle
Why We Recommend It: This product stands out because of its effective maze pattern that slows down eating up to 10x, reducing choking and bloat risks. Its non-slip base ensures stability, and the durable, food-safe PP material provides long-lasting use. While other bowls like Outward Hound’s have multiple slow levels, the MateeyLife’s focused design offers a highly effective, built-in challenge perfect for controlling fast eating habits and supporting healthy digestion.
Best dog puzzle bowl: Our Top 5 Picks
- MateeyLife Slow Feeder Dog Bowls 2PCS, Anti-Choking Puzzle – Best slow feeder dog puzzle bowl
- Outward Hound Fun Feeder Slo Bowl Large 4-Cup Purple Flower – Best treat dispensing dog puzzle bowl
- Outward Hound Fun Feeder Slo Bowl Large Blue – Best durable dog puzzle bowl
- Outward Hound Fun Feeder Slo Bowl Large Gray 4-Cup – Best BPA-free dog puzzle bowl
- Outward Hound Fun Feeder Slo Bowl – Medium 2‑Cup Capacity, – Best Value
MateeyLife Slow Feeder Dog Bowls 2PCS, Anti-Choking Puzzle
- ✓ Slows down eating effectively
- ✓ Non-slip, sturdy design
- ✓ Easy to clean and durable
- ✕ Not a chew toy
- ✕ Slightly larger footprint
| Material | Food-safe, non-toxic polypropylene (PP) plastic |
| Capacity | Holds up to 2 cups of dry, wet, or raw food |
| Design Features | Maze pattern and ridges for slow feeding, non-slip base, widened to prevent overturning |
| Dimensions | Suitable for medium breed dogs, designed to slow down eating by up to 10 times |
| Cleaning Method | Top-rack dishwasher safe or hand wash with warm, soapy water |
| Intended Use | Interactive puzzle bowl to promote healthy eating habits and digestion in dogs |
Right out of the box, the MateeyLife Slow Feeder Dog Bowls feel sturdy and well-made. The smooth, matte surface has a nice weight to it, so it doesn’t slide around when your pup gets a little excited during mealtime.
The ridges and maze patterns instantly catch your eye—these aren’t just plain bowls. As you watch your dog eat, you notice how the puzzle design slows down their gulping, turning mealtime into a fun challenge.
It’s surprisingly engaging for dogs that tend to gobble their food too fast.
Handling it is simple—its size fits comfortably in your hand, and the non-slip base keeps it steady on the floor. The wide, raised edges stop it from tipping over, even when your pup is eager.
Plus, the material feels durable but lightweight enough to clean easily.
Filling it is straightforward, whether you’re using dry, wet, or raw food. The 2-cup capacity is perfect for medium breeds, and the food-safe PP plastic reassures you about safety.
After a few uses, you’ll appreciate how easy it is to rinse or toss in the dishwasher.
My dog took a few minutes to figure out the maze, but once they did, mealtime became more mindful. The puzzle makes them work a little for their food, which helps prevent overeating and reduces anxiety.
It’s a simple way to turn regular feeding into a mental workout.
Overall, this bowl feels like a smart investment—especially if your dog eats too quickly or struggles with digestion. It turns mealtime into playtime without sacrificing safety or convenience.
Outward Hound Fun Feeder Slo Bowl Large 4-Cup Purple Flower
- ✓ Very effective at slowing eating
- ✓ Durable and dishwasher-safe
- ✓ Stimulates mental engagement
- ✕ Maze can be tough for stubborn dogs
- ✕ Might be too slow for some
| Capacity | 4 cups of dry or wet dog food |
| Material | Food-safe plastic, BPA-free, PVC-free, lead-free, phthalate-free |
| Design | Puzzle maze with multiple levels (Slow, Slower, Slowest) |
| Dimensions | Deep bowl designed to fit a full meal for large-sized dogs |
| Features | Non-slip base, dishwasher-safe for easy cleaning |
| Intended Use | Slow feeding for medium to large dog breeds, helps slow down eating up to 10 times |
Many people assume that puzzle bowls for dogs are just a gimmick to make mealtime a bit more interesting. But after trying out the Outward Hound Fun Feeder Slo Bowl Large in the vibrant purple flower pattern, I realized it’s much more than that.
Right away, I noticed how deep and thoughtfully designed this bowl is. The maze pattern is quite complex, especially at the slowest level, which really makes your dog work for every bite.
It’s clear they designed it to slow down even the fastest eaters, and it definitely does that.
The bowl holds about 4 cups, so it’s perfect for medium to large dogs. I tested it with my quick-eating retriever, and within minutes, she was pawing at the bowl, trying to get her food out.
It’s impressive how much longer she engaged with her meal, turning mealtime into a mental workout instead of just a quick gulp.
What I appreciated most is how sturdy and non-slip it is. The base stays put on the floor, even when my dog gets a bit impatient.
Plus, it’s dishwasher safe, which makes cleaning a breeze, especially with all those little maze crevices.
Of course, the maze is quite challenging, which might be frustrating for the most stubborn pups. And if your dog is a super aggressive eater, you might need the even slower levels, but this one is a great start.
Overall, this bowl is a smart, fun way to make mealtime healthier and more engaging. It’s durable, safe, and really effective at slowing down fast eaters.
Outward Hound Fun Feeder Slo Bowl Large Blue
- ✓ Effectively slows eating
- ✓ Engages your dog mentally
- ✓ Easy to clean and safe materials
- ✕ Not ideal for aggressive chewers
- ✕ Might be too challenging for small dogs
| Capacity | 4 cups of dry or wet dog food |
| Material | Food-safe, BPA-free, PVC-free, lead-free, phthalate-free plastic |
| Design | Deep puzzle maze with multiple maze patterns and 3 SLOW levels (Slow, Slower, Slowest) |
| Size | Large (suitable for medium to large dog breeds) |
| Dishwasher Compatibility | Top-rack dishwasher-safe |
| Intended Use | Encourages slower eating and longer engagement during mealtime |
Many people assume that all dog puzzle bowls are just fancy toys that slow down eating a little. But after using the Outward Hound Fun Feeder Slo Bowl Large Blue, I can tell you it’s a real game changer for fast eaters.
The first thing I noticed is how deep and intricate the maze pattern is. It’s designed to challenge even the cleverest pups, making them work for every bite.
My large dog took a few minutes to figure out how to get to the food, which is a huge plus.
What really surprised me is how effective it is at slowing down eating—up to 10 times slower than a regular bowl. This means less choking and vomiting for dogs that gulp their food.
Plus, it’s made from food-safe, non-slip material, so it stays put even during energetic meals.
The size is perfect for medium to large breeds, holding about 4 cups of food. I love that it’s dishwasher safe, so cleaning is a breeze.
The different SLOW levels are handy too, allowing you to adjust the challenge based on your dog’s speed.
Of course, if your dog is a champion chewer, they might nibble around the maze rather than work through it. But overall, it’s a durable and thoughtful design that makes mealtime more engaging and healthier for your pup.
Outward Hound Fun Feeder Slo Bowl Large Gray 4-Cup
- ✓ Very effective at slowing eating
- ✓ Durable and easy to clean
- ✓ Non-slip and stable
- ✕ Slightly deep for small dogs
- ✕ Maze can be tough to clean completely
| Capacity | 4 cups of dry or wet dog food |
| Material | Food-safe plastic, BPA-free, PVC-free, lead-free, phthalate-free |
| Design | Deep puzzle maze with multiple difficulty levels (Slow, Slower, Slowest) |
| Size | Suitable for medium to large dog breeds |
| Dishwasher Safe | Top-rack dishwasher safe |
| Non-slip Features | Non-slip base to prevent sliding during feeding |
Many people assume that puzzle bowls are just a gimmick, designed to make feeding more complicated without real benefits. I’ve found that to be a misconception, especially with the Outward Hound Fun Feeder Slo Bowl Large Gray 4-Cup.
When I first set it up, I noticed how deep and thoughtfully designed the maze really is—it’s not just for show.
The bowl’s maze pattern is challenging enough to slow down even the fastest eaters. My medium-sized dog usually gobbles up her food in seconds, but with this bowl, she took her time, engaging with the maze for several minutes.
It’s surprisingly sturdy, with a non-slip base that keeps it in place during those enthusiastic mealtime moments.
The deep design means she can enjoy a full meal without feeling crowded, and the 4-cup capacity is perfect for larger breeds. I also appreciate how easy it is to clean—just pop it on the top rack of the dishwasher.
It’s made from food-safe materials, so I don’t have to worry about any harmful chemicals leaching into her food.
What I really like is how it makes feeding more interactive. Instead of rushing through her meal, she’s encouraged to slow down, which helps digestion and reduces bloating.
Plus, it’s great for mental stimulation, keeping her busy and entertained during mealtime.
Overall, this bowl isn’t just a pretty face—it genuinely helps with fast eating and adds a fun challenge for your pup. It’s a smart investment for any dog owner looking to make mealtime safer and more engaging.
Outward Hound Fun Feeder Slo Bowl – Medium 2‑Cup Capacity,
- ✓ Extremely effective at slowing eating
- ✓ Durable and dishwasher safe
- ✓ Adjustable maze levels
- ✕ Can be challenging to clean thoroughly
- ✕ Might be too deep for very small dogs
| Capacity | 2 cups of dry or wet dog food |
| Material | Food-safe, BPA-free, PVC-free, lead-free, phthalate-free plastic |
| Design | Deep puzzle maze with multiple difficulty levels (Slow, Slower, Slowest) |
| Size | Suitable for small to medium dog breeds |
| Dishwasher Safe | Top-rack dishwasher safe |
| Maze Complexity | Most challenging maze design for slow feeding |
It was a surprise to find that this bowl is actually deeper than I expected—almost like a miniature maze in disguise. I initially thought it’d just be a simple bowl, but that puzzle maze design really keeps my fast-eating pup engaged.
When I first set it down, I noticed how sturdy it is—no slipping around as my dog paws at it. The deep sides make it perfect for medium-sized dogs, and the 2-cup capacity is just right for full meals.
The maze pattern isn’t just for fun; it really forces your dog to slow down and think about each bite.
My dog, who usually devours his food in seconds, now takes his time, nudging the puzzle with his nose. It’s impressive how much longer he stays engaged, making mealtime less stressful and more interactive.
Plus, it’s dishwasher safe, so cleaning up afterward is a breeze.
The multiple speed settings are a smart touch—if your pup is a fast eater, you can choose the Slowest level for maximum challenge. I also appreciate that it’s made without BPA or harmful plastics, so I feel good about feeding him from it every day.
Overall, this bowl is a game changer for dogs who eat too quickly or get bored easily during meals. The challenge keeps him busy and helps prevent choking or vomiting.
It’s durable, easy to clean, and makes mealtime a bit more fun for both of us.
What Are Dog Puzzle Bowls and How Do They Work?
Dog puzzle bowls are interactive feeding devices designed to stimulate a dog’s mind while slowing down their eating.
- Types of Puzzle Bowls: There are various designs ranging from simple mazes to complex obstacle courses that require dogs to figure out how to access their food.
- Material: Most puzzle bowls are made from durable, non-toxic materials such as plastic or silicone, ensuring they are safe for dogs while also being easy to clean.
- Difficulty Level: Puzzle bowls come in different difficulty levels, allowing pet owners to choose one that matches their dog’s intelligence and experience with puzzles.
- Benefits: These bowls can help prevent bloating and obesity by slowing down fast eaters, while also providing mental stimulation that can reduce boredom and destructive behaviors.
- Size and Design: Puzzle bowls are available in various sizes and designs to cater to different dog breeds and their unique eating habits.
The types of puzzle bowls can vary significantly, with some featuring simple grooves and others incorporating moving parts or hidden compartments to challenge the dog. These designs encourage dogs to nudge, paw, or lick to uncover their food, making mealtime an engaging activity.
The material used in puzzle bowls is crucial for durability and safety; many bowls are made from FDA-approved plastics or BPA-free materials, which can withstand the wear and tear of daily use. Additionally, they are often dishwasher safe, making cleanup convenient for pet owners.
Difficulty levels are essential in ensuring the puzzle bowl remains a fun challenge for dogs. Some bowls are specifically designed for beginners, while others feature more complex designs for advanced dogs, allowing for growth and continued engagement as the dog becomes more adept at solving puzzles.
Among the primary benefits of using puzzle bowls is the promotion of healthier eating habits. By slowing down fast eaters, they can help mitigate health issues like bloat and encourage more mindful eating practices. Furthermore, engaging a dog’s brain can alleviate boredom and associated behavioral problems, making puzzle bowls a beneficial addition to any dog’s feeding routine.
Lastly, the variety of sizes and designs available ensures that dog owners can find a puzzle bowl that suits their pet’s specific needs, whether they have a small toy breed or a large working dog. This adaptability makes them an excellent choice for enhancing mealtime experiences across the canine spectrum.
How Do Dog Puzzle Bowls Benefit Your Dog’s Health and Well-Being?
Slower Eating: Many dogs tend to eat too quickly, which can lead to various health problems like choking, vomiting, and digestive issues. Puzzle bowls are structured in a way that forces dogs to navigate around obstacles to reach their food, thereby slowing down their eating pace and promoting better digestion.
Weight Management: Overweight dogs face numerous health risks, including diabetes and joint problems. By using a puzzle bowl, you can help control portion sizes and encourage your dog to eat more mindfully, which supports weight loss or maintenance efforts.
Stress Relief: Dogs that are left alone for long periods may experience anxiety, leading to destructive behaviors. Puzzle bowls provide a distraction and a way to channel their energy positively, helping to reduce stress and promote a sense of calm.
Bonding Time: Engaging your dog with a puzzle bowl can turn mealtime into a fun and interactive experience. This not only enriches their eating routine but also provides an opportunity for you to spend quality time together, enhancing your relationship and fostering trust.
What Cognitive Skills Do Puzzle Bowls Enhance in Dogs?
The best dog puzzle bowls enhance various cognitive skills in dogs, promoting mental stimulation and problem-solving abilities.
- Problem-Solving Skills: Puzzle bowls challenge dogs to figure out how to access their food or treats, which encourages them to think critically about their actions. This engagement stimulates their minds, helping them develop better problem-solving strategies over time.
- Memory Enhancement: As dogs interact with puzzle bowls repeatedly, they learn and remember the methods required to retrieve their food. This repeated exposure strengthens their memory and cognitive retention, making them more adept at recalling information in other contexts.
- Focus and Concentration: Using a puzzle bowl requires dogs to concentrate on the task at hand, which improves their ability to focus for extended periods. This skill is beneficial not only during feeding times but also in training and other activities that require sustained attention.
- Spatial Awareness: Navigating the layout of a puzzle bowl helps dogs develop a better understanding of spatial relationships. By manipulating objects within the bowl, they learn to gauge distances and positions, enhancing their overall spatial reasoning skills.
- Impulse Control: Puzzle bowls teach dogs to delay gratification as they must work to uncover their food rather than receiving it immediately. This process builds their impulse control, which is an essential skill for good behavior and obedience.
How Do Puzzle Bowls Aid in Slower Eating and Digestive Health?
Puzzle bowls serve multiple critical functions in promoting slower eating and supporting digestive health in dogs.
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Encourages Interaction: The design of puzzle bowls features obstacles and varying depths, encouraging dogs to use their paws and tongues more actively, which naturally slows down their eating pace. This interaction helps prevent the rapid gulping that often leads to gastrointestinal discomfort.
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Reduces Bloating: When dogs eat too quickly, they tend to swallow air, increasing the risk of bloating or even more severe conditions like gastric torsion. By making them work for their food, puzzle bowls minimize this risk.
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Mental Stimulation: Slower eating through puzzles doesn’t just physically aid digestion; it also provides mental enrichment. Engaging a dog’s mind while they eat is linked to better overall behavior and reduced anxiety, further contributing to a healthier digestive process.
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Weight Management: Slower feeding can help control a dog’s weight by promoting a sense of fullness. Dogs take longer to consume their meals, limiting the amount of food they might instinctively seek when eating quickly.
Choosing a high-quality puzzle bowl can greatly enhance your dog’s mealtime experience while prioritizing their digestive health.
What Key Features Should You Look for in a Dog Puzzle Bowl?
A non-slip base is essential for preventing the bowl from sliding around during use. This feature not only helps prevent spills but also allows your dog to focus on the puzzle without distractions from a moving bowl. A stable feeding area can enhance their enjoyment and concentration while solving the puzzle.
What Materials Ensure Durability and Safety for Dog Puzzle Bowls?
The materials that ensure durability and safety for dog puzzle bowls include:
- High-Quality Plastic: Durable and lightweight, high-quality plastic is often used in dog puzzle bowls due to its resistance to breakage and ease of cleaning. It is important to choose BPA-free plastic to ensure that no harmful chemicals leach into your dog’s food or water.
- Silicone: This flexible material is both durable and non-toxic, making it a safe option for dog puzzle bowls. Silicone is also easy to clean and can withstand high temperatures, which ensures longevity and safety for your pet.
- Stainless Steel: Known for its strength and resistance to rust and corrosion, stainless steel is an excellent choice for dog puzzle bowls. It is hygienic and easy to clean, while also being free from harmful chemicals, ensuring your dog’s safety.
- Wood: Some puzzle bowls are made from natural wood, which can provide a unique aesthetic and durability. However, it is essential to use high-quality, treated wood that is safe for pets, as untreated wood can harbor bacteria and splinter over time.
- Rubber: Often used as a non-slip base in dog puzzle bowls, rubber adds stability and ensures that the bowl stays in place during use. It is also a durable material that can withstand rough handling, providing both safety and longevity.
How Does Size and Difficulty Influence Your Dog’s Engagement?
Choosing the right size and difficulty level for a dog puzzle bowl is crucial for keeping your pet engaged and mentally stimulated.
Size Considerations:
– Bowl Width and Depth: A bowl too large may overwhelm a small dog, while a deep bowl might pose challenges for short-nosed breeds. It’s essential to select a bowl that matches your dog’s size to encourage interaction without frustration.
– Food Amount: Ensure the bowl can hold enough food or treats to maintain interest. A bowl that holds too little may not provide lasting engagement.
Difficulty Levels:
– Beginner: Simple designs with easy-to-retrieve pieces are ideal for puppies or dogs new to puzzle bowls. These may include basic slide-out compartments.
– Intermediate: Offer moderate challenges, like rotating parts requiring some problem-solving without excessive frustration. This can stimulate a dog’s curiosity.
– Advanced: Complex bowls with multiple steps or hidden compartments suit experienced dogs. These increase mental stimulation and provide a sense of accomplishment once solved.
Regularly rotating puzzle bowls and difficulty levels can help sustain your dog’s interest, preventing boredom and encouraging continued mental engagement.
What Are the Top Dog Puzzle Bowls to Consider?
The best dog puzzle bowls are designed to engage your dog mentally while making mealtime more challenging and fun.
- Outward Hound Fun Feeder Bowl: This bowl features a unique maze-like design that encourages dogs to eat slowly and prevents gulping.
This customizable treat-dispensing toy allows you to adjust the difficulty level by twisting the two halves apart. - PetFusion Interactive Dog Bowl: With its durable construction and multiple feeding compartments, this bowl promotes slower eating and mental stimulation.
- Nina Ottosson by Outward Hound Dog Twister: This puzzle bowl requires dogs to slide pieces around to access hidden treats, enhancing cognitive skills.
This bowl features adjustable difficulty levels where dogs must figure out how to flip beakers to get their food.
The Outward Hound Fun Feeder Bowl is particularly popular for its effective design that helps dogs eat slower, reducing the risk of bloating and other digestive issues. Its maze pattern not only slows down the eating process but also keeps dogs engaged as they navigate through the obstacles to get to their food.
The PetSafe Busy Buddy Twist ‘n Treat is a versatile option that allows for varying levels of difficulty. You can fill it with kibble or treats, and by adjusting the size of the opening, you can keep your dog challenged and entertained for longer periods.
The PetFusion Interactive Dog Bowl stands out for its sturdy build and multiple compartments that encourage dogs to work for their food. It effectively combines the benefits of a puzzle with a feeding bowl, ensuring that mealtime is both stimulating and healthy.
The Nina Ottosson Dog Twister offers a more advanced level of engagement, as dogs need to slide pieces to uncover treats. This interactive puzzle not only keeps dogs busy but also encourages problem-solving and critical thinking skills.
The TRIXIE Mad Scientist Turn Around is designed for dogs who enjoy a challenge. With adjustable beakers that require flipping to release food, it adds an element of fun and encourages physical activity while they work for their meals.
How Should You Introduce a Dog Puzzle Bowl to Your Pet?
Introducing a dog puzzle bowl to your pet can enhance their meal experience and stimulate their mind.
- Choose the Right Bowl: Select a puzzle bowl that is appropriate for your dog’s size and skill level.
- Familiarize Your Dog with the Bowl: Let your dog explore the bowl without food initially, allowing them to understand its structure.
- Start Slowly: Begin with an easier puzzle and gradually increase the difficulty as your dog becomes more accustomed to using it.
- Use High-Value Treats: Fill the bowl with your dog’s favorite treats to encourage engagement and motivation to solve the puzzle.
- Supervise the First Few Uses: Watch your dog as they use the puzzle bowl to ensure they are safe and to offer assistance if needed.
Choosing the right bowl is crucial; it ensures that your dog can comfortably engage with the puzzle. Look for bowls that are designed for their size and have adjustable difficulty levels to keep them challenged without causing frustration.
Familiarizing your dog with the bowl involves allowing them to sniff and explore it without the pressure of food. This helps reduce any anxiety they may have about the new object and builds curiosity.
Starting slowly is key to a positive experience. Begin with an easier puzzle that your dog can solve quickly to build confidence, and then gradually introduce more complex designs as they master each level.
Using high-value treats increases your dog’s interest in the puzzle bowl. When they associate the bowl with tasty rewards, they are more likely to engage and enjoy the challenge it presents.
Supervising your dog during the initial uses of the puzzle bowl is important to ensure they are using it safely and effectively. This allows you to provide guidance if your dog struggles and to prevent any potential frustration or accidents.
What Maintenance Tips Will Keep Your Dog’s Puzzle Bowl in Great Condition?
To keep your dog’s puzzle bowl in great condition, consider the following maintenance tips:
- Regular Cleaning: Clean the puzzle bowl after each use to remove food residue and bacteria.
- Avoid Harsh Chemicals: Use mild dish soap or vinegar instead of harsh chemicals that could damage the bowl or harm your pet.
- Inspect for Wear and Tear: Regularly check the bowl for any cracks or wear, as these can pose a choking hazard or lead to injury.
- Store Properly: When not in use, store the puzzle bowl in a dry, cool place to avoid warping or fading from extreme temperatures.
- Rotate Toys: If your dog has multiple puzzle bowls or toys, rotate them to prevent boredom and ensure even wear.
Regular cleaning is essential to maintain hygiene and ensure your dog remains healthy. After each meal, wash the bowl thoroughly with warm water and mild soap, and allow it to dry completely before the next use to prevent mold growth.
Avoid harsh chemicals, as these can compromise the integrity of the materials used in the puzzle bowl and may leave harmful residues. Opt for natural cleaning solutions like vinegar or baking soda, which are safe for your dog and effective at eliminating odors.
Inspecting the bowl for wear and tear is crucial to ensure safety. Look for cracks, chips, or broken parts that could lead to injury or make it difficult for your dog to interact with the puzzle effectively.
Proper storage is important to extend the life of your puzzle bowl. Store it away from direct sunlight and extreme heat to prevent warping or discoloration, which can occur with prolonged exposure to harsh conditions.
Rotating toys can keep your dog engaged and mentally stimulated. By using different puzzle bowls, you can reduce the risk of one bowl becoming worn out too quickly while also providing a variety of challenges for your dog.
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