Border Collie Toy Showdown: Cosmo’s Favorites That Burn Energy & Boost Smarts

Cosmo’s a ball-lover (classic Border Collie energy right there), you’ve come to a great Border Collie’s guide to non-stop play, brain games, and tail-wagging joy! Already working with one of the best motivators out there, Border Collies like him are super smart, super fast, and always looking for a job to do—even if that job is “herd the squeaky toy until it surrenders.” Disclaimer - Not all of these toys may be enjoyed by all Border Collies. These are just ones that Cosmo truly recommends.

1. Chuckit! Ball Launcher

Why Cosmo will love it: Supercharged fetch = more distance, more zoomies, more fun.
Activity idea: Use it for structured fetch games like “2-ball fetch” where you only throw the next ball after Cosmo drops the first. Teaches patience and control!

The Launcher is literally the number one item Cosmo loves to see when someone picks it up. He knows exactly what is going to happen when that shows up (paid ad)

🧠 2. KONG Classic (Stuffed & Frozen)

Why it's great: Keeps him occupied when you’re busy, plus engages his brain.
Cosmo Challenge Mode: Layer peanut butter, kibble, yogurt, and freeze it for a longer-lasting puzzle.

🎯 3. Trixie Dog Activity Flip Board / Chess Game

Why it rocks: Cosmo has to use his nose, paws, and brain to solve it.
Make it extra fun: Cheer him on, help at first, and use smelly treats like cheese or dried liver to really motivate him.

The puzzle games really enrich the intelligence of Border Collies. You may have to get a few different ones. Cosmo was able to figure it out and there was no stopping him once he had (paid ad)

🐏 4. Herding Ball (like Jolly Ball or Treibball)

Why it’s perfect: Lets Cosmo tap into that natural herding instinct!
Fun game: Set up cones or laundry baskets and teach him to “push” the ball to a goal like soccer. (Yes, Border Collie soccer is a thing.)

🌀 5. Flirt Pole

Why Cosmo will flip for it: It triggers his prey drive and gives you more control over the game.
Fun twist: Add commands like “down” or “leave it” mid-chase to turn it into a mini obedience game.

🧸 6. Tug Toy (like West Paw Bumi or Goughnuts)

Great for bonding: Tug is a game + training tool if done right.
How to spice it up: Make it part of a "trade" game—tug, release, sit, tug again. Builds impulse control and fun at the same time.

🧠 7. Snuffle Mat

Why it’s amazing: Turns mealtime into a nose-work session.
Activity idea: Hide part of Cosmo’s daily kibble in the mat and let him forage for it. Perfect for rainy days or calming hyper energy.

A snuffle mat is a great item to have for those fast eaters. Cosmo was an extremely fast eater until one of these showed up, now he takes his time and almost seems to enjoy himself while he is eating (paid ad)

🧊 8. Lick Mats

Perfect for chill time: Spread with peanut butter, yogurt, or canned food.
Use it when: You need him to settle down, during grooming, or when guests arrive. Great calming activity!

🧱 9. KONG Wobbler or Bob-A-Lot

Why it works: It dispenses treats when pushed, nudged, or rolled.
Fun twist: Start with easy treats and level up to harder ones. Cosmo will be working for his snacks.

🦴 10. Chew Toys (like Benebone or Nylabone)

Keeps his mouth busy: Great for downtime and dental health.
When to use: After a long play session to help him settle into “chill mode.”

🏗️ 11. Interactive Agility Set (Tunnel, Weave Poles, Hurdles)

Why Cosmo will crush it: Border Collies were built for agility.
Backyard challenge: Set up a mini course and guide him through. Even basic tricks like “go through,” “over,” and “wait” build confidence and obedience.

🔄 12. DIY Muffin Tin Puzzle

Cheap and fun: Place treats in a muffin tray, cover with tennis balls—Cosmo has to lift the balls to find the snacks.
Upgrade it: Use different scents under each ball or teach him to target the ones with the treat smell!

🐾 Bonus Fun Activities Cosmo has learned and loves:

Ball Hide & Seek: Cosmo will stay in one room while you hide balls around the house or yard. Release him to find them!
Name That Toy: The smarts of Bordie Collies come out after a few times of multiple toys and treats he brings the exact toy you ask for.
Obstacle Courses: Use chairs, pillows, boxes, and brooms indoors for makeshift agility course if the weather outside isn't so nice.
“Find It” Games: Hide treats in boxes, cups, or folded towels for scent work.
Trick Training Sessions: Cosmo loves learning stuff like “spin,” “bow,” “crawl,” and more. 5–10 mins a day does wonders.
Talking Dog Buttons: We’ve been using talking dog buttons to teach Cosmo to say "outside" and "ball"!

These talking buttons are a total game-changer—Cosmo’s basically a fluffy little chatterbox now! He knows exactly what each one means, and hearing our voices on them makes it feel like we’re having real convos. It’s adorable and kinda mind-blowing! (paid ad)