Aldi Just Dropped a New Dog Toy That Could Be a Summer Game Changer
Most dog toys solve exactly one problem, and your dog figures that out within a few minutes.
Aldi's Heart to Tail Water Pedal Dog Toy does something different. It connects to your garden hose and shoots out a stream of water when your dog steps on the pedal. Your dog controls the water, and once they figure that out, your afternoon plans are over.
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Heart to Tail Water Pedal Dog Toy, $12.99 at Aldi
The concept is simple. Hook the toy to the hose, place it in the yard and let your dog have fun. Your pup will likely start investigating, but you might need to encourage them to press the paw to see how it works.
Once your dog learns the trick, they can drink from it, play with it or press the pedal for pure sensory joy. With summer coming and the temperature rising, this clever canine find will make life cooler for your pet.
How to Introduce Your Dog to the Toy
Here's the catch. Most dogs have no idea what to do with toys like this one at first. Dogs will often stare at novel objects, and they might be cautious before approaching them.
They learn through repetition and reward, and a pedal that produces water may be strange first and fun later. Early on, make sure the pedal is worth approaching. Make them curious enough to find out.
Start with the hose off and let your dog sniff the toy, walk around it and nose the pedal without anything happening. Give your dog a few minutes to figure out that the toy is not a threat.
Once your dog is calm and comfortable around it, turn the water on low. You want a trickle first, not a blast. Bring some high-value treats, and stand near the toy.
Every time your dog approaches the pedal, reward them with a treat. Do not wait for them to press it. Reward your dog for approaching the toy to create a positive association.
Related: This Handy DIY Dog Water Station Is Winning Over Pet Parents Fast
Time to Press It
Your dog may need some time to be comfortable near the toy running low water. Lure them with a treat. Hold the treat low past the pedal, and let your dog walk toward it. When their paw makes contact and the water comes out, your dog will likely startle back or freeze.
Keep your energy neutral, move the treat back toward the pedal area, and wait. Curious dogs will return. Wait a minute or two; do not push it. Then, toss a treat right at the stream.
How to Turn This Toy Into a Game
Some dogs pick up how the toy works in a single session. Some need more time. But most dogs will go from curious to enthusiastic once they discover how it works.
Dogs who love water will get there faster. To turn this toy into a game, always finish the session before your dog gets frustrated or bored. Five minutes is more than enough engagement.
The Best Part Isn't the Water
The best part about this toy is the problem-solving feature. This interactive toy doubles as a toy and a summer cooling station for your pup. (And, by extension, you.)
This toy gives dogs something they enjoy: figuring things out. In this case, the reward is water, but the real enrichment comes from learning that their actions change the world around them.
Related: This $7 Aldi Find Is a Total Lifesaver for Muddy Dog Paws
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This story was originally published June 6, 2026 at 9:48 AM.