Dog Activity Chess, Dog Activity Gamble Box and Dog Activity Kicker are three new ‘doggy brain training’ games from accessory supplier Trixie. The toys provide mental encouragement and support by rewarding dogs for using their natural initiative. Running for a ball challenges a dog physically, whilst these toys are designed to challenge them mentally. Activity toys of varying designs have become increasingly popular in recent years, which can only be fun for dogs and for their owners!

Each toy requires different skills and challenges at varying levels. Dog Activity Gamble Box is a ‘level one’ (beginners) toy, whilst Dog Activity Chess is suitable for ‘level three’ dogs that are well-trained professionals!

The ‘level one’ toy Dog Activity Gamble Box consists of a box with two draws and an additional compartment on the top for small treats to be hidden. The dog is encouraged by the scent of the treat. With practice a dog will be able to open the draws of the toy by pulling the rope handles with his teeth and be rewarded with an edible treat. The dog will also learn to lift the lid from the top compartment using the knob and gain access to even more treats!

All three new Trixie toys where designed by specialist Jens Reinhold (www.dog-intelligenz.de). Each Trixie activity toy has non-slip rubber feet and is suitable for dogs of all ages. Each toy is boxed and accompanied by full instructions and tips for use. The recommended retail price for the Dog Activity Gamble Box is £13.

Dog Activity Kicker contains three tubes, which are filled with treats. The dog needs to learn to push the tubes out by moving a slider with his nose to expose the food reward. As the slider is moved it pushes the treat to the surface either to the top or the side of the game. The recommended retail price for the Dog Activity Kicker is £17.60.

And, for the more experienced ‘canine game player’ is the most difficult Dog Activity Chess game. The chess toy is a board game with pins and small extensions where treats are hidden. After a while the dog can be taught to lift the pins with his mouth, open the compartments and expose the treats. The dog then needs to use his paws to remove the treat from the toy to eat it. This game is quite ambitious for most dogs and is designed for use after a dog has mastered the simpler Solitaire Game (also from Trixie). The recommended retail price for the Dog Activity Chess is £33.60.

All games need thorough cleaning after use and the pins for Dog Activity Chess are dishwasher proof. Several different activity ball interactive games are also available from Trixie along with a vast variety of other dog toys and training aids for inside and outdoor use.

The company’s vast range of over 5,000 lines includes pet accessories in just about every product group, including collars and leads, hutches, toys, beds and much more. Products can also be viewed on the website at www.trixie.de. For further information and all sales enquiries, call Trixie UK on 01233 647700 or email