11 Best Dog Toys for Large Breeds
It can be difficult to find a suitable toy for large dog breeds. Unlike their counterparts, they easily destroy toys because of their great jaw power and aggression. They need near-indestructible toys to occupy their play and training time.
To make it easier for you, I have put together a list of the best dog toys for large breeds that will fit your giant furry friend’s strong bite and large size and will last longer than the average toys in the market. Keep reading to discover the criteria for creating this list and find an ideal toy for your doggo.
Important Factors To Consider When Choosing A Toy
Your giant furry friend needs toys that match their personality and energy. With this in mind, here are essential factors to consider.
Size
Many factors contribute to the danger and safety of a dog’s toy. The size of the toy plays a major role in safety; most dog trainers and vets recommend a toy that your large breed will find hard to swallow. A large dog breed can easily swallow small toys, making them a choking hazard.
Purpose
Is your dog an aggressive chewer or too active? Consider getting them a toy made with long-lasting materials. You may also buy several toys to reduce playtime with each toy, thus making them last longer. If your giant furry friend is not an aggressive chewer, a comfort toy will suit them.
Durability
Though not all large dog breeds are vicious, it can be hard for their toys to last. This is because even a gentle giant can have enormous biting power, making a toy wear out faster. Luckily, many near indestructible toys are in the market designed for a dog who is a power chewer.
The Best Toys For Large Dog Breeds
Several name brands are suitable for your gentle giant. I have chosen toys for various purposes, meaning there is something for every pooch. They include:
1. Benebone Wishbone Chew Toy
The Benebone toy is great for dogs who love chewing. The toy has a peanut butter flavor, providing a better chewing experience. Its design resembles a bone, providing a good grip for your pooch and can distract them for a long time.
This big dog toy is manufactured in the United States. The material used is durable nylon which lasts longer than the standard chew toy in the market. The toy’s materials are not sensitive to dogs’ and human noses making them a great fit in your home.
If you purchase this toy, you will not only be doing your dog a favor but also many others – Benebone donates a portion of all its sales to animal support organizations.
2. Hide a Raccoon Dog Toy Puzzle
Your giant dog playing with puzzle toys is the perfect way to distract them for a couple of hours. Besides, this toy’s material is soft and gentle on your furry friend’s teeth. It is the perfect piece for interactive play. Daily playtime with the toy can help stimulate your dog’s hunting instincts.
3. Mammoth Cotton Rope
Mammoth cotton rope is 72 inches long with 3 knots and is perfect for playing tug-of-war with your giant furry friend. It has enough room to hold on to while you engage in this activity with them. I found this toy ideal for a household with multiple giant dogs, as it allows them to grab on and play together.
The cotton material is durable and easily adjustable to a 5-knot design. The mammoth cotton colors stand out and are guaranteed to catch your furry friend’s eye. Besides playing with it, your dog can use the toy to clean its teeth.
4. Kong Squeezz Ball Toy
While getting squeaky toys for giant furries is not advisable, Kong Squeezz Ball is the exception to the rule. It has been designed in an extra-large size suitable for your giant furry friend. The rounded ball is durable and fun, as its bounce rate can keep your dog chasing it over your yard.
The squeaker in the ball toy is hidden, which might drive your dog a little crazy – I recommend you supervise playtime with the ball to prevent things from going out of hand. The ball toy comes in multiple colors, and its cost is quite economical.
5. Dogwood Wood Alternative Dog Chew Toy
Some dogs like to chew on wood sticks. While this can help stimulate your dog’s gums and keep its teeth in good shape, it is dangerous as the sticks may splinter and cause severe health problems. Instead, get your dog the dogwood toy.
It is available in a variety of scents including real wood and barbecue. Its flavor and scent stick, so your furry friend can enjoy it for a lengthy period.
6. Starmark Everlasting Treat Bento Ball
The toy is made from rubber that is non-destructive and non-toxic, which is great if your pooch is a power chewer. Another outstanding aspect of this toy is that it is dishwasher-safe.
You can fill the Starmark with treats to keep your dog engaged as they dig in it. Most dogs are curious as their feline counterparts and will keep digging into the toy to get a jackpot prize. This activity will give your dog enough mental stimulation to reduce boredom and anxiety.
7. Orbee-Tuff Football Treat Dispensing Dog Chew Toy
The Orbee-tuff football is buoyant and bouncy, making it easy for your furry friend to play with it on land and water. It has a washable design, so you can clean it after your dog spends hours having fun.
The toy has a natural mint flavor that is not only refreshing but can help keep your canine’s teeth clean. To get your pet started on the fun, smear some peanut butter on it after stuffing it with treats.
8. Monster K9 Chew Toy
It is a budget-friendly toy made using high-quality industrial-strength rubber that is puncture-resistant. The material is non-toxic, making it safe for your power chewer friend. It is perfect for playing catch with your dog as it has an ergonomic design similar to a Frisbee.
Monster K9 is the perfect toy for a highly energetic dog. Its durable material can withstand shock during play and abuse from an aggressive dog. You can use the toy to burn off their energy by throwing it outdoors while playing.
9. Kong Extreme Dog Toy
You cannot list toys suitable for giant dogs without mentioning the Kong Extreme. Unlike some toys in this list, it lacks the squeaky element, but it has a hollow compartment that you can fill with various treats. This will keep your giant pooch engaged as they try to get the treats from it.
The toy is extremely durable and made from high-quality materials tough enough to withstand your dog’s powerful bites. It bounces erratically, which is perfect for providing self-play.
Dog trainers and vets recommend the toy as it can double as a puzzle toy and can soothe your dog’s teeth. To give your furry friend an extreme challenge, refrigerate it for around 4 to 6 hours to harden it even more.
10. Outward Hound Nubbiez Loofa Plush Dog Toy
This lightweight toy is bound to be your dog’s new favorite floppy toy. It is a squeaker toy made with nubby material, perfect for the interactive play of toss and fetch or quiet cuddles. If your aggressive giant dog manages to break in, there will be less mess as it contains less stuffing than similar toys.
11. Chuckit! XXL Rubber Ball
Chuckit! Rubber ball is durable and has a thick skin layer that prevents penetration into its interior surface, making it a great choice for large and dangerous dogs. You can choose from various colors, and it is also available in XXL size. The design of the toy is compatible with Chuckit! Ball Launcher, making it a great addition when you want to play fetch with your furry friend.
Moreover, the ball has a high bounce capability that will excite your pet if they love to fetch and run over long distances. Its squeaky sounds will keep them engaged for a long time.
Toys To Avoid
While some toys are eye-catching and might seem fun to give your furry friend, they may pose several dangers to them. For large-breed dogs, it is better to get high-quality, durable toys that cannot break easily.
Some of the toys to totally keep off include:
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Squeaky Soft Toys
The squeaker in toys always makes dogs go wild, and you will find your giant furry friend gravitating towards them as they try to find the source of the noises. Usually, a large dog can easily dislodge the inner squeaker and stuffing of a squeaky soft toy. This makes it a waste of money and a health hazard.
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Plush Toys
Plush dog toys are usually made from thick and soft material that large dogs can destroy within minutes. Swallowing its contents can result in choking or intestinal blockage.
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Kids Toys
Most kids’ toys can harm your dog as they are not robust enough to withstand its strength and aggressiveness. During playtime, the toys may break and cause injury. If your dog accidentally swallows their components, it may experience serious health problems.
Talk to your kids and explain the dangers of your dog having their toy. Also, supervise their playtime to ensure they do not share their toys with the dog. When they are done, keep the toys away safely.
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I pick the right toy for my giant dog?
Like humans and other pets, dogs play in unique and different ways. First, study your furry friend’s chewing and playing style.
If your dog is calm, it should have comfort toys. Aggressive dogs need chew toys to satisfy their chewing instincts, while active dogs require toss-and-retrieve toys to promote bonding with their owners.
How do I ensure the safety of my dog toy?
Although most toys for large breeds are made from high-quality and sturdy materials, it will be best for them if you monitor their playtime.
No matter how comfortable your furry friend is with the toy, it can pose a hazard. Most giant breeds can be rough, causing wear on the toy and posing a choking hazard. If your dog swallows the material, rush them to the nearest vet.
How can I determine the best toy size for my dog?
Large dog breeds come in different sizes; hence you cannot use the one fits all approach. Choosing an ideal toy size for your dog will depend on its body size, biting power, aggressiveness, and character.
Note that if the toy is too large, your furry friend can have difficulty handling it. If it is too small, your dog can accidentally swallow it. So, it should be the right size.
How can I clean my dog’s toy?
It is advisable to keep your dog’s toys clean for their health’s sake. Some toys are dishwasher safe making it easier for you to clean. The best cleaning method is by using biodegradable or natural soap for the safety of your giant furry friend. Harsh detergents can cause mouth and skin irritation to your dog as they contain toxic chemicals.
What toy would my dog love most?
You can never go wrong with treat-dispensing toys, as most dogs enjoy a regular snack. Getting your dog such a toy will have them excited and enjoy their playtime with the toy. Also, select a toy that has great scent and texture.
Final Thoughts
Like small dogs, large breeds require playtime and exercise to keep them fit and healthy. Whether your furry friend is gentle or aggressive, there is a toy suitable for them. The toys on this list are made from durable materials and offer the best value for money.