The Best Toys for Large Dogs: An All-Played Out Guide

7 min readMar 24, 2022

As a dog owner, you know how important it is to keep your furry friend active and engaged. Large dogs, in particular, have high energy levels and need plenty of exercise and playtime to stay happy and healthy.

But finding the right toys for your big pup can be a challenge. You want something durable, safe, and engaging, but with so many options on the market, it can be overwhelming to know where to start.

That’s why we’ve put together this all-encompassing guide to help you find the best toys for your large dog. Scroll down to read more about The Best Toys for Large Dogs: An All-Played Out Guide.

1. Why Large Dogs Need Toys

Before we dive into the best toys for large dogs, let’s take a look at why they require toys in the first place. Large dogs have a lot of energy and require a way to release it.

Toys provide an outlet for physical activity and mental stimulation, which can prevent boredom and destructive behavior.

Additionally, playing with toys can strengthen the bond between you and your dog and provide opportunities for training and socialization.

2. What to Look for in Toys for Large Dogs

When shopping for toys for your large dog, there are a few key things to keep in mind.

First, you want to look for toys that are durable and can withstand your pup’s strong jaws and powerful play style.

Second, you want to consider the type of toy and how it will engage your dog. Toys that require problem-solving or interactive play are great for keeping your pup mentally stimulated.

Finally, you want to make sure the toy is safe and free from any small parts that your dog could swallow.

3. Types of Toys for Large Dogs

There are many different types of toys that are great for large dogs. Here are some of the most popular:

Chew Toys

Chew toys are a great way to satisfy your dog’s natural urge to chew while also promoting healthy teeth and gums. Look for durable, non-toxic options that can withstand heavy chewing.

Interactive Toys

Interactive toys are great for keeping your dog mentally stimulated and engaged. Puzzle toys and treat-dispensing toys are both excellent options that can provide hours of entertainment.

Tug Toys

Tug toys are perfect for large dogs who love to play tug-of-war. Look for sturdy options that can withstand your pup’s strength.

Fetch Toys

Fetch toys are a classic choice for active dogs. Look for options that are durable and easy to throw, like rubber balls or frisbees.

Top 10 Best Toys for Large Dogs

Now that you know what to look for in toys for your large dog, let’s take a look at some of the best options on the market:

Kong Classic Dog Toy — a durable chew toy that can also be filled with treats for interactive play.
Nylabone Dura Chew Textured Ring — a chew toy that promotes healthy teeth and gums.
Chuckit! Ultra Ball — a durable ball that is perfect for fetch.
Outward Hound Hide-A-Squirrel Puzzle Toy — an interactive toy that challenges your dog to find and retrieve hidden toys.
Benebone Real Flavor Dental Chew — a flavored chew toy that promotes healthy teeth and
Tug-a-Jug — an interactive toy that dispenses treats as your dog plays with it.
KONG Flyer — a durable frisbee that is perfect for playing fetch.
West Paw Design Zogoflex Tug Toy — a sturdy tug toy that can withstand heavy play.
Chuckit! Kick Fetch — a durable ball that can be kicked instead of thrown for a fun twist on fetch.
Busy Buddy Tug-A-Jug — an interactive toy that combines tug-of-war with treat-dispensing play.

4. DIY Toy Ideas for Large Dogs

If you’re feeling crafty, there are plenty of DIY toy ideas that you can make for your large dog. Here are a few options:

DIY Tug Toy

Materials:

Old t-shirt or towel
Scissors

Instructions:

Cut the t-shirt or towel into strips.
Knot the strips together to create a tug toy.

DIY Treat Dispenser

Materials:

Empty plastic bottle
Dog treats

Instructions:

Cut a small hole in the side of the plastic bottle.
Fill the bottle with dog treats.
Let your dog figure out how to get the treats out through the hole.

DIY Fetch Toy

Materials:

Old sock
Tennis ball

Instructions:

Place the tennis ball inside the sock.
Knot the end of the sock to keep the ball in place.
Use the sock as a fun and easy fetch toy.

5. Tips for Choosing the Best Toys for Large Dogs

When it comes to choosing toys for your large dog, there are a few key things to keep in mind. Here are some tips to help you make the best choices:

Look for Durable Materials

Large dogs can be tough on toys, so it’s important to select options that are made from durable materials that can withstand heavy play. Look for toys made from tough rubber, nylon, or other sturdy materials.

Consider Your Dog’s Size and Strength

When choosing toys for your large dog, make sure to consider their size and strength. Toys that are too small or weak for your dog can easily break apart and become a choking hazard.

Look for toys that are appropriately sized and strong enough to handle your dog’s play style.

Choose Toys that Promote Physical Activity

Large dogs need plenty of exercise, so it’s influential to select toys that encourage physical activity.

Look for options that are designed for games like fetch or tug-of-war, or toys that require your dog to move around to access treats.

Select Toys that Offer Mental Stimulation

In addition to physical activity, large dogs also require mental stimulation to stay happy and healthy. Look for toys that require your dog to think and problem-solve, such as puzzle toys or treat-dispensing toys.

Avoid Toys with Small Parts

Toys with small parts can be dangerous for large dogs, as they can easily be swallowed or choked on. Make sure to pick toys that are free from small parts that could be a hazard to your dog.

6. Safety Precautions when Choosing Toys for Large Dogs

When choosing toys for your large dog, safety should always be a top priority. Here are some safety precautions to keep in mind:

Avoid Toys with Toxic Materials

Some toys may be made from materials that are toxic to dogs, such as lead or PVC. Make sure to select toys made from safe materials and avoid any options that may be harmful to your dog’s health.

Supervise Playtime

Even with the best toys, accidents can happen during playtime. Always supervise your dog when they are playing with toys to ensure that they are playing safely and not getting into any trouble.

Watch for Signs of Wear and Tear

Regularly inspect your dog’s toys for signs of wear and tear, and replace them as needed. Toys that are damaged or broken can pose a hazard to your dog and should be disposed of immediately.

Choose Age-Appropriate Toys

Some toys may be designed for specific age ranges, such as puppies or senior dogs. Make sure to decide toys that are appropriate for your dog’s age and developmental stage to ensure that they can enjoy them safely.

7. Questions and Answers

Q: How often should I replace my dog’s toys?

A: It’s a good idea to replace your dog’s toys every few months or when they start to show signs of wear and tear.

Q: Can I leave my dog alone with toys?

A: It’s generally safe to leave your dog alone with toys, but make sure to supervise them at first to ensure that they won’t swallow any small parts.

Q: What should I do if my dog swallows a toy?

A: If your dog swallows a toy, contact your veterinarian immediately for advice on what to do next.

Q: Can I wash my dog’s toys?

A: Yes, it’s a good idea to wash your dog’s toys regularly to keep them clean and hygienic.

Q: Are there any toys that are dangerous for large dogs?

A: Yes, toys with small parts or those that can easily break apart can be dangerous for large dogs. Make sure to choose options that are sturdy and free from small parts that your dog could swallow.

8. Conclusion