KONG Classic Dog Toy Wins
Winner
KONG Classic red rubber dog toy medium

KONG Classic Dog Toy

9.4

All dog owners — the gold standard chew toy that doubles as a treat dispenser

VS
Nina Ottosson Challenge Slider advanced puzzle toy

Nina Ottosson Challenge Slider Interactive Treat Puzzle

8.1

Experienced puzzle dogs and owners who want the most challenging treat puzzle available

David Nakamura
David Nakamura

Score Comparison

Criteria
KONG Classic Dog Toy
Nina Ottosson Challenge Slider Interactive Treat Puzzle
Overall Score
9.4
8.1
Durability
9.5
7.5
Safety & Materials
9.5
8.5
Enrichment Value
9.0
9.8
Construction Quality
9.5
8.5
Size Versatility
9.5
6.0
Ease of Cleaning
9.0
8.0
Value
9.5
7.5

Pricing & Features

Specification
KONG Classic Dog Toy
Nina Ottosson Challenge Slider Interactive Treat Puzzle
Price
$12.99
$32.99

Making Your Decision

KONG Classic Dog Toy logo

When to Choose KONG Classic Dog Toy

All dog owners — the gold standard chew toy that doubles as a treat dispenser

The KONG Classic is the most versatile dog toy ever made — and that is not hyperbole. Its natural rubber construction survives power chewers, the fillable center turns it into a puzzle toy, and it comes in every size imaginable. At under $13, the price-to-durability ratio is unmatched. Every dog should own one.

Strengths

  • Nearly indestructible natural rubber withstands even power chewers
  • Fillable center provides hours of enrichment with treats, peanut butter, or kibble
  • Available in six sizes from XS to XXL to fit any dog breed

Limitations

  • Plain design may not excite dogs who prefer interactive or plush toys
  • Unfilled KONG bounces unpredictably — not ideal for structured fetch
  • Red classic version may stain light-colored carpets when stuffed
Nina Ottosson Challenge Slider Interactive Treat Puzzle logo

When to Choose Nina Ottosson Challenge Slider Interactive Treat Puzzle

Experienced puzzle dogs and owners who want the most challenging treat puzzle available

The Nina Ottosson Challenge Slider is the most mentally demanding toy in this comparison — the multi-step sliding and locking mechanisms require genuine problem-solving that Level 2 puzzles simply do not offer. For dogs who blow through simpler puzzles in minutes, this provides 20-45 minutes of focused engagement. The premium price is justified by the enrichment quality for dogs who need the challenge.

Strengths

  • Level 3 advanced puzzle with multi-step sliding and locking mechanisms — the hardest in this comparison
  • BPA, PVC, and phthalate-free composite material is food-safe and dishwasher-safe
  • Multiple hidden compartments keep even experienced puzzle dogs challenged for 20-45 minutes

Limitations

  • Expensive at $33 for a single puzzle toy
  • One size only — too large for toy breeds and not durable enough for giant breed chewing
  • Dogs who have mastered Level 2 puzzles may solve this faster than expected

Ready to Get Started?

KONG Classic red rubber dog toy medium

KONG Classic Dog Toy

Score: 9.4
Nina Ottosson Challenge Slider advanced puzzle toy

Nina Ottosson Challenge Slider Interactive Treat Puzzle

Score: 8.1