Louie is an energetic 16-month-old Yorkshire Terrier. When it’s just the two of us, he stays calm in my room, but the moment the family gathers in the living room, he turns into a bouncing ball of energy. Finding a way to help him focus indoors has always mattered to me. That’s where nose work toys come in. In this post, I’m sharing our experience with the Nina Ottosson Wobble Bowl, a simple but surprisingly effective nose work toy that Louie still enjoys.
1. What Nose Work Means for Dogs
Nose work refers to activities that allow dogs to use their sense of smell to search, solve problems, and earn rewards. It may look like a game, but for dogs it’s a form of mental exercise. Smelling and thinking at the same time helps release stress, improves concentration, and satisfies natural instincts.
For Louie, nose work is useful in several situations: when I need to step out briefly, during family mealtimes, or when he eats too fast. Instead of inhaling treats, he slows down and focuses.
2. Why Nose Work Is Important
A dog’s sense of smell is far more developed than a human’s. Using it regularly helps dogs feel mentally fulfilled. After finishing a nose work session, Louie often jumps onto the bed and celebrates with what I call his “earthworm dance.”
Nose work also helps with:
Stress reduction through mental stimulation
Improved focus and patience
Stronger bonding when owners encourage and guide
Safe indoor energy release, especially before bedtime
3. Nina Ottosson Wobble Bowl Design
The Wobble Bowl has a rounded base that rocks when pushed. Treats or kibble are placed inside and fall out gradually through the openings as the dog nudges or taps the bowl.
The clear top twists open easily for filling and can be removed for cleaning. Because the base is rounded, even gentle movements cause the bowl to wobble, making it engaging without being overly difficult.
4. Louie’s First and Second Reactions
When Louie first saw the Wobble Bowl, he was hesitant. The movement and sound surprised him, and he avoided touching it at first. I helped by gently moving it myself so he could see treats fall out.
The second time was completely different. He approached confidently, pushed it with his paws, and figured out how to control the movement. Experience really does make dogs smarter.
Reflections
Compared to ordinary toys, a short nose work session offers much more value. Louie still loves balls and plush toys, but nose work gives him something deeper: focus, problem-solving, and satisfaction. The Nina Ottosson Wobble Bowl remains one of the toys he enjoys regardless of level or age. It’s a simple tool, but it plays an important role in helping him end the day calmly.
