After moving in together, my husband and I adopted our first dog, a stubborn blue-eyed French bulldog named Oswald, just five days later. Although the early days involved challenges like potty training and chewed-up belongings, Oswald's affectionate behavior quickly won us over. Four years later, we decided to adopt a second dog, a fearless two-year-old girl named Mabel, which added to our household dynamic.
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While adjusting to two small dogs has its challenges— such as dressing them for winter walks and sharing our bed— the real struggle has been keeping them entertained while I work from home. Their neediness often disrupts my calls, causing distractions during meetings.
In an attempt to keep them occupied, I tried various toys and treats, but many required constant supervision or were consumed too quickly. However, a gift from my mother-in-law, the Woof Pupsicle, proved to be a game-changer. This refillable, dishwasher-safe enrichment toy is designed to fill with treats and keeps dogs engaged for extended periods.
The Pupsicle consists of two tough rubber pieces that easily screw together, allowing for effortless filling and cleaning. It can be filled with premade or homemade treats, which can enhance its longevity during use. According to other users, some find that consistent dishwashing may affect the toy's smooth surface, but applying a bit of cooking oil can help maintain functionality.
For convenience, I often fill the Pupsicle with premade treat balls, which come in various flavors like chicken, beef, and peanut butter. Some treats even contain calming ingredients or probiotic blends, although these health claims aren't verified. These pre-prepared treats can be stored in the freezer for longer-lasting enjoyment.
Ozzie and Mabel each use a small Pupsicle, and when filled, it keeps them happily occupied for up to an hour. The Pupsicle is also available in larger sizes for bigger dogs and has a special version for aggressive chewers. Typical fillings include Greek yogurt, peanut butter, and various dog-safe mixtures suggested within the pet community.
The duration each Pupsicle lasts can vary widely depending on the individual dog and the type of treats used. I maintain a mix of both DIY and premade options to ensure that I have what I need available to keep my dogs distracted.
In an emergency, I can quickly fill the Pupsicle with peanut butter or yogurt to buy a few minutes of peace, although this method may get a bit messy. Beyond my household, the Pupsicle has garnered praise from various dog owners for its effectiveness in calming pets during stressful situations, such as fireworks or life changes.
Overall, Ozzie and Mabel enjoy their Pupsicles immensely, and I appreciate the moments of tranquility they offer. This toy has significantly improved my working environment, allowing me moments of focus while maintaining the joy of having my dogs around.