Puzzle toy level 4 for dogs: how to play

The hardest puzzles: several steps, several locks, many wells. For dogs who breeze through level 3.

Time: 15 min
Energy: Low
Space: Small room

You'll need

Level 4 puzzle toy (multi-step locks)
small treats or kibble

Set up

Level 4 puzzles combine multiple locking sequences and different move types on one board. Some dogs never need this level; that's fine. Use the Nina Ottosson style 1 to 4 scale on the box as a guide.

How to play

Show your dog the toy with treats in it and let them sniff.
Load the toy out of sight, so your dog has to work out where the food is.
Put it on a non-slip floor and stay close but quiet.
Mark "Yes" for any try at the right move, even a nose bump. Let them find the treat themselves.
If your dog stalls for 30 seconds, show the move once with your finger, then let them finish.
Pick the puzzle up when it's empty, or after 10 minutes, whichever comes first.

House rules

Puzzle is supervised, never left out.
Move up a level only when your dog empties the current one quickly and happily for a week.

Make it easier: Start with only one locking sequence loaded.
Make it harder: Load everything and time it; or combine two level 3 puzzles back to back.

Signs it's having fun

Focused nose and paw work, tail wagging, quickly returning to the next well.

Stop if you see

Barking at the toy, chewing pieces, pawing frantically, or walking away. Go back a level or help more.

Safety

Puzzles are not chew toys. Pick them up the moment your dog bites the pieces.
Check for small removable parts your dog could swallow.
Use part of the daily food allowance so treats don't add extra calories.

Sources

Written from these sources and checked against vet and trainer guidance. General guidance, not veterinary advice.

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