The Trixie Flip Bone 32×18 cm is a puzzle toy for dogs from the German brand Trixie. It's a plastic "bone" with flip-open compartments where treats are hidden: to get the reward, the dog has to work out how to open the lid. This kind of play works the brain rather than the muscles and, according to the manufacturer, reduces boredom and destructive behaviour and strengthens the bond between owner and dog.
How the toy works
The base is a sturdy plastic bone-shaped body measuring 32 × 18 cm. It has several compartments with flip-open lids: the dog has to nudge a lid with its nose or paw to reach the hidden treat. The size is aimed at medium and large breeds, but, as the manufacturer notes, the toy suits dogs of all ages — puppies and adults alike. The plastic cleans easily, and the toy is dishwasher safe.
Key specs
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Type | puzzle toy |
| Size | 32 × 18 cm |
| Material | sturdy plastic |
| Mechanism | flip-open treat compartments |
| For | medium and large dogs, any age |
| Care | dishwasher safe |
Pros
- Exercise for the brain. The dog learns to solve a problem rather than just eat.
- Less boredom and mischief. Mental work tires a dog as much as a walk.
- Builds the bond. It's more fun to play together with the owner.
- Sturdy build. The plastic withstands active pawing and nosing.
- Easy to clean. Dishwasher safe.
- For any age. Suits puppies and adult dogs.
Cons
- Not a chew toy. Don't leave your dog alone with it — strong jaws can damage the plastic.
- Clever dogs "solve" it quickly. Eventually you'll need harder puzzles.
- Sized for medium and large dogs. A small dog may find it awkward.
- Needs teaching. The first few times you'll have to show your dog what to do.
How to teach your dog to play
Start with the easiest version: put a treat in a compartment and leave the lid open — let your dog simply find and eat it. Then half-close the lid, and later close it fully. Praise your dog when it nudges the lid with its nose or paw. If it loses interest, go back a step. Play for 5–10 minutes and put the toy away while your dog is still keen — that keeps the puzzle exciting. Use small treats and count them in the daily food allowance; for ideas see training treats for dogs.
Why dogs need puzzles
Dogs, especially young ones and working breeds, need mental as well as physical exercise. Without it, energy goes into barking and chewing furniture and shoes. Brain games are especially helpful in bad weather, when walks are shorter, and for dogs that spend long hours at home. More ideas are in how to keep a dog busy indoors in bad weather, and if your puppy chews everything, see puppy chews everything: how to stop it.
Safety
Check the toy before each game: if the plastic is cracked or the edges are chewed, remove it so your dog doesn't swallow fragments. Don't use the toy as a substitute for a chew bone, and don't give it unsupervised to a dog that tends to destroy things. After playing with moist treats, wash the compartments — food remains go off.
Who it suits
Medium and large dogs of any age that need more mental stimulation: active, young and bored-at-home dogs. More toys are in the dog toys section.
Verdict
The Trixie Flip Bone is a simple, sturdy puzzle with flip-open compartments that turns a treat into a task. It eases boredom, keeps your dog busy in bad weather and strengthens your bond. Play under supervision, start with open compartments and don't let it become a chew toy.
FAQ
What size is the toy?
32 × 18 cm — for medium and large breeds.
Is it suitable for puppies?
Yes, the manufacturer says the toy suits dogs of all ages.
Is it dishwasher safe?
Yes, it can be washed in a dishwasher.
What treats should go inside?
Small dry treats or kibble, counted in the daily food allowance.
Can I leave my dog alone with the toy?
Better to play under supervision: it's a puzzle, not a chew toy.
How long should a session last?
5–10 minutes at a time; put the toy away while your dog is still interested.
What if my dog solves it quickly?
Make it harder: hide treats in only some compartments or move on to more complex puzzles.
