Review of Nina Ottosson by Outward Hound - Dog Brick
This is the first treat dispensing toy that we got Toto when he was about 4 months. I read a lot of good things about the Nina Ottosson puzzle toys, and decided to try it out.
Nina Ottosson is a Swedish designer who has been making unique and challenging puzzle toys for dogs, that provide both mental and physical stimulation. The toys are made only from wood or recyclable plastic, with a focus on being environmentally sustainable.
The first time that we gave this to Toto, we just put some kibble into each of the compartments, and underneath the sliding red boxes, and put everything into place. He was super into it right from the beginning, and kept working on it until he got every piece of food out. We actually timed him doing the puzzle, and he took approximately 10 minutes the first time around, and got it down to about 5 minutes the times after.
I was hoping that it would keep him working on it a bit longer than that, and it could very well be the case with other dogs. However, I wouldn't say this is a toy that would keep him going for hours if we left the house - more something to supplement training, or give throughout the day. Sometimes, we would change up how much kibble we put in and where (putting a big stash into just one or two places, or just a few kibble in a few boxes). You can also flip the white dog bone parts over and it makes it more challenging for them if they get good at pawing at the parts to get them out.
Durability: 4 out of 5 The dog brick is pretty durable and robust, and while the biting and pawing does leave marks on the plastic, it is still usable (after 1 year) and in generally good shape.
Difficulty: 2 out of 5 This toy is a Level 2 Difficulty, out of 3, according to the manufacturer's website. The rating I would give would be more on the Easy side.
Interest: 5 out of 5 Toto kept working on this until he got every single kibble out without stop!
Environmental: 1 out of 5 The toy is 100% plastic. The manufacturer claims it is recyclable.
Cost: 2 out of 5 For a toy that needs to be ordered online, I found the price point to be a bit on the high side, after shipping costs and all. I was also hoping that it would keep him entertained for longer.
Overall Rating: 3 out of 5 I like the idea of supporting independent designers, buying European made/designed products, and generally having something unique! However this did not deliver the level of difficulty i was hoping for, considering the cost. I will try to get one of the "Level 3" toys to see if that is more challenging.
Pro Tip: Mix dog food with water to make a wet food, pour it into the compartments, and freeze it, before giving it to your dog!