Large and giant dogs might be very aggressive and ferocious in nature but can be calmed easily with a dog toy.
However, these toys need to be extremely tough, large and indestructible as per their size else your large dog will end up destroying and chewing off the parts of the dog toy.
This can be dangerous if they end up ingesting the toys by mistake as it can cause grave health consequences.
In order to prevent your dog from ingesting and chewing off regular dog toys, what helps is buying the best large dog toys.
These are meant to be extremely tough and sustain extreme and ferocious behavior by pets. These toys also help calm your big hound of separation anxiety and restlessness.
Therefore, we decided to help all those big dog parents out there by reviewing the best large dog toys of the season.
A Quick Comparison of Our Favorites in 2023
- Best Overall: KONG – Extreme Large Dog Toy at Amazon
- Premium Choice: Chuckit! Kick Fetch Ball Large Dog Toy at Amazon
- Best Value: Nylabone Power Chew Large Dog Toy at Amazon
- Best Affordable: KONG Air Squeaker Dog Toy at Amazon
The 10 Best Large Dog Toys of 2023
1. KONG – Extreme Large Dog Toy — Best Overall
The KONG Extreme Large Dog Toy is the best large dog toy made of premium rubber to help satisfy your dog’s urges.
It is not only good for their oral health but also provides the mental stimulation that is important for their physical and mental development.
A toy is a great tool for curing boredom, separation anxiety, teething problems and for weight management to curb and keep your dog’s appetite under control.
It is created specifically for power chewing dogs. The treat toy also comes with a space for stuffing.
You can stuff the toy with your dog’s favourite treat like peanut butter or a flavourful spread. The KONG toy is also dishwasher safe making it easy to clean and convenient to use.
It also encourages slow feeding to prevent gulping. You can also freeze the dog toy with their favorite treat filling for an added surprise.
To conclude, we think this is the overall best large dog toys.
Key Features:
- Size: 4”-6”
- Material: Rubber
- Type: Chew Toy/ Treat Toy
- Indoor/Outdoor: Indoor Use
- Great for stuffing treats
- Dishwasher and Freezer safe
KONG Toys are also recommended by veterinarians and dog trainers worldwide. It is made of globally sourced materials and manufactured in the USA.
In spite of which, a few dog parents complain of its durability not being up to the mark. Else, the toy is a great choice for treat lovers to savour hours of licking.
2. Chuckit! Kick Fetch Ball Large Dog Toy — Premium Choice
The Chuckit! Kick Fetch Ball Large Dog Toy is a very interactive toy for hours of fun, play and exercise and is our premium choice of large dog toys.
It has two deep ridges that allow your dog to grip and hold the ball easily. it has a rubber foam construction that allows your dog to play with the ball on land and in water.
The colors are extremely bright that making them easily visible in tall grasses and bushes. It combines canvas, rubber and foam that makes for durable construction and material.
The shape of the ball is such that it bounces randomly to keep your pup surprised.
It has multiple size options, this particular variant being suitable for large dogs. The groove design and ridges help in ease of playing for both and your pet. There is a glowing variant also available that allows your dog to play with the ball at night.
Key Features:
- Size: 7”-8”
- Material: Rubber and Foam
- Type: Fetch Toy
- Indoor/Outdoor: Outdoor Use
- Size options and glow variants available
- Deep grooved design for easy grip
However, pet parents claim the ball does not withstand aggressive chewing and can tear apart easily. The part that has ridges tears apart almost easily. It is a great toy for hours of playtime and exercise but could be better in terms of durability.
3. Nylabone Power Chew Large Dog Toy — Best Value
Give your dog a flavourful and stress-free chew time with the Nylabone Power Chew Large Dog Toy that makes it to our budget pick from the best large dog toys.
The toy has a very unique shape and an attractive texture which make it easy to grip the toy and satisfies your hound’s natural cravings to chew.
The toy not only encourages chewing but stops your pet from destructive chewing habits. It has various ridges and nubs that provide a great surface to chew and take care of your dog’s dental health. The toy is a perfect fit for power chewers.
It comes with a medley of flavors that includes most of your dog’s favorite taste blends that entice your dog to chew and nibble over the toy continuously.
The toy is made in the United States and comes in multiple designs and chew variants. Give your dog a variety with each bite.
Key Features:
- Size: 5”-6”
- Material: Composite Plastic and Nylon
- Type: Chew Toy
- Indoor/Outdoor: Indoor Use
- Available in various designs and sizes
- Rich in flavor
Dog parents claim that toys are very hard to chew onto and can harm your dog’s teeth. Since it is injurious, pet parents should think twice before investing in the dog toy unless he is a very aggressive chewer.
4. Outward Hound Nina Ottoson Puzzle Dog Toys
The Outward Hound Nina Ottoson Puzzle Dog Toys is the ultimate mind-bender for pets as they can remain engaged for hours.
It is a great exercise for your pet’s brains and makes them sharper. The worker toy looks like real wood to give your dog the natural feel but is made of plastic.
The toy is made of composite material and is very durable. It has no extra attachments or removable parts that makes it safe for pets. You can also hide treats within the toy to double the fun and reward your pooch each time they solve the puzzle.
You can cover the treats with the flippers and your pup to seek and find them.
You can interact with your pup while he plays, teach and train them how to use the toy and have hours of fun and interaction with your pet. Make sure to supervise your pet while he remains engaged with the toy.
Key Features:
- Size: 11”
- Material: Composite Plastic and Wood
- Type: Puzzle Toy
- Indoor/Outdoor: Indoor Use
- Available in various designs and levels
- No removable parts or detachable pieces
There are multiple levels and design variants available. However, unless you supervise your pet, the toy is not claimed to be very safe as the parts may detach easily upon rough and excessive use. However, if you train your pet, it is a very engaging toy.
5. KONG Air Squeaker Dog Toy
The KONG Air Squeaker Dog Toy is very durable and a perfect tool for a game of fetch with your hound.
Since it belongs to the KONG brand of dog toys and products, it is extremely reliable and preferred by most parents. It has a hidden squeaker inside to induce play and attract your dog.
The surface of the ball is made of non-abrasive tennis material that is extremely gentle for your dog’s teeth.
The ball is available in various sizes based on your dog’s size. The toy is not meant for excessive chewing but is just perfect for playing fetch and for exercise.
The soft felt covering won’t cause any harm to your dog’s teeth and in fact feels very soft. Since the toy is made in the USA, it is made of reliable quality raw materials. The toy is almost 9 inches in size which makes it perfect for larger dog breeds.
Key Features:
- Size: 9”
- Material: Durable Tennis Ball Material
- Type: Fetch Toy
- Indoor/Outdoor: Outdoor Use
- Available in various designs and shapes
- Good for exercise and playing fetch
The toy is also available in various attractive shapes and designs. The stitches at the seams could be better as they start wearing out soon.
Dogs may end up shredding the soft fabric on top. However, it is a great tool for exercise and interaction with your fido.
6. The Dog’s Balls Tennis Balls for Large Dogs
Why should dog’s miss out on the fun of playing with tennis balls? Hence, the Dog’s Balls manufactured the tennis balls made specifically for dogs.
It comes in fun and attractive colors and is available in various sizes so you can play fetch, catch, cricket and a lot of other things with your pets.
The tennis balls are extremely bouncy and are made of premium quality that makes them durable and fun to play with. It does not use any toxic materials in the manufacturing process and can be easily and safely carried in your dog’s mouth.
The ball sphere and the glue are made of natural rubber that is extremely safe for your pet. The printing done on the top surface of the balls using felt dyes and ink stamps are also non-toxic.
The felt dye is non-abrasive and won’t wear out your dog’s teeth either. It is a fun way of indulging your dog in exercise and increasing interaction with your hound.
Key Features:
- Size: 4”
- Material: Natural Rubber
- Type: Ball Toy
- Indoor/Outdoor: Outdoor Use
- Available in various colors
- Good for exercise and retrieval
However, pet parents claim that the dog toy is extremely flimsy and breaks apart with extreme bouncing and use. Apart from the durability, it makes for a great toy for playing fetch or catching with your fido.
7. Mary & Kate Pets XL Dog Rope Toys
The Mary & Kate Pets XL Dog Rope Toys assure 100% quality and satisfaction and is made for the toughest and aggressive chewers.
The rope is very powerful and cures and calms pets of anxiety and restlessness. It is suitable for large adult dogs as well as teething puppies.
Additionally, if the rope toy is destroyed within a month of use, then you can get it replaced for free.
It has a very compact size that you can use for playing fetch as well as for pulling and tugging with your pet. The toy is an extremely interactive tool and helps you bond with your pet.
The rope is made of natural cotton and is machine washable. Wash it on a gentle cycle with a mild detergent in the washing machine, and the rope is good as new. The tug toy is made of double ropes and has a knot for gripping and pulling the toy.
Key Features:
- Size: 24”
- Material: 100% Cotton
- Type: Tug Toy
- Indoor/Outdoor: Indoor & Outdoor Use
- Available in various colors
- Machine Washable
The toy is available in attractive color variants. However, dog parents claim that the toy can be dangerous as it starts shedding ropes and if ingested, can cause serious complications in pets.
All in all, it is very strong and durable and can sustain aggressive chewing, unlike other tug toys and ropes.
8. goDog Amphibianz Durable Big Dog Plush Toy
The goDog Amphibianz Durable Big Dog Plush Toy is an extremely fun and attractive looking dog toy and is not only a great product to cuddle with but also a great chew toy.
It comes in various shapes, designs and patterns, all of which look like cute and adorable animals or reptiles.
The toy is imbibed with Chew Guard Technology which makes it durable and capable of sustaining aggressive behaviour.
The toy also has a fun squeaker inside that makes it a great tool of fun and distraction for your pet. The toy is best suited for medium and large-sized breeds.
The toy has tough stitched seams at the end which makes it tear-proof and helps the toy last longer and better.
The toy looks very soft and plush on the outside but is extremely tough on the inside. It is made of attractive colors which appeal to your pet and the toy can end up being your pet’s new best friend.
Key Features:
- Size: 7.5”
- Material: Plush and Fleece Fabric
- Type: Plush Toy
- Indoor/Outdoor: Indoor & Outdoor Use
- Available in various colors and fun designs
- Comes with Chew Guard Technology
However, users claim that the dog toy is not meant for aggressive dog breeds. In fact, upon rough use, the toy can easily tear apart. It is great as a plush and cuddle toy but not for chewing and pulling.
9. Pet Champion Giant Dog Rope Toy
The Pet Champion Giant Dog Rope Toy makes for a great game of tug of war for large dog breeds. It is made of 100% pure cotton and comes with a handle to offer you a strong grip.
It also has a tennis ball on one end so you can use the toy for a game of fetch as well.
The toy is a great way to promote healthy interaction between you and your pet. The material is such that it is extremely tough and durable for aggressive tugging as well.
The design of the rope is quite attractive and colorful and the bright colors help in visibility even during nighttime.
The rope toy has a dual knot for a better grip and for providing sturdiness and firmness to the rope while it is being pulled.
The toy helps in feeding your dog’s natural instincts of pulling and tugging. There are multiple variants to the toy also available, with a single knot, with a ball and knots, etc.
Key Features:
- Size: 6”
- Material: Cotton with elastic blend
- Type: Tug Toy
- Indoor/Outdoor: Indoor & Outdoor Use
- Available in various color and fun design patterns
- Promotes healthy interaction and exercise
However, pet parents complain that the rope toy is not very durable and it is not 100% cotton. The material is mixed with rubber for increasing the elasticity of the rope. All in all, it makes for a great pastime but may not sustain for a very long time.
10. Elk Antler Dog Chew for Large and Extra Large Dogs
The Elk Antler Dog Chew for Large and Extra Large Dogs from Big Dog Antler Chews is a very beneficial and healthy way of keeping your dog busy and indulging in chewing.
It is an extra-large dog chew antler which is made of premium quality rubber and is perfectly sized for large dog breeds.
The chew toy is a product of USA and hence is very reliable in terms of quality although the toy is highly-priced for its few features. It has a thick outer enamel that is very helpful for continuous chewing and helps in preventing anxiety and boredom in pets.
The product is all-natural and contains no artificial chemicals and preservatives.
It has only been cut, shaped and trimmed, and coated with sand for ease of chewing and has been infused with minerals like Calcium, Phosphorous, Manganese, and Zinc which helps in tartar-control and maintain your dog’s oral and dental health.
Key Features:
- Size: 8”-12”
- Material: Elk antler with outer enamel coating
- Type: Chew Toy
- Indoor/Outdoor: Indoor & Outdoor Use
- Contains Calcium, Phosphorous, Manganese, and Zinc
- Made in the USA
The toy is a. great pastime for indoor chewing and playing and does not require any supervision as it is absolutely safe.
However, dog parents claim that the quality of the product has deteriorated with time. All in all, it makes for a great stress buster and pastime for your pet.
Buyer’s Guide: Choosing the Best Large Dog Toys
Here are the steps you must follow in order to choose the best large dog toys for your fido:
Size
Size Matters! Especially when it is for your large dog, then it is very important to choose the largest size of dog toy for your fido.
This is because small toys would not be convenient and comfortable for them to use and at the same time, it can be dangerous for them.
Small toys can be easily ingested and the parts can be easily destroyed by your ferocious hound. This can lead to tremendous complications in the long run and can also get fatal.
Therefore, a toy of size 6-8 inches would be the ideal choice for large hounds as they can handle the toy comfortably without the fear of ingesting or damaging themselves.
Material
One needs to be extremely cautious with the material especially when it is the case with large dogs and giant breeds. Usually, dog toys are made of rubber, plastic, or fleece material based on the type.
Rubber is the best choice when it comes to getting a toy for a large dog as they are flexible, resistant to tugging, and do not break easily.
If you buy a toy that is made of plastic or rope, make sure to check if it is pet safe and made from reliable raw materials.
Type
While dog toys are available in several types, it can be difficult to choose what type is best suited for your pet.
The best way to select is by observing your pet’s behaviour and researching their breed. If they are sensitive and loving, then a soft toy or a medium chew toy and puzzle toy would be helpful.
However, if they are a ferocious and destructive breed, then a tough chew toy or tug toy is the ideal choice for such pets. You can see the types of dog toys available for large and giant dogs above and choose one accordingly for your pet.
Durability
This is one of the most significant factors to consider especially if you have a large dog. Giant dog breeds have a habit of pulling and tugging their toy and treat them very roughly.
Hence, the dog toys should be very durable and capable of sustaining extreme tugging and pulling.
Else, they would be a waste and not worth the purchase. Tough and strong chew toys are the best bet if you are looking for a reliable and durable chew toy.
Design
Get a dog toy with a simple and easy to use design. Toys that have complicated setups and multiple attachments and intricate designs are not only difficult for dogs to understand but can also be dangerous.
Your pet may knowingly or unknowingly ingest a screw or two from the toy which can cause grave complications in pets.
Especially if you are not supervising while playing, it is recommended that you get a simple chew toy or puzzle toy to keep him occupied and play safely with the toy.
Complicated rules and toy setups can confuse your dog further and may discourage him from playing with the toy.
Ease of Cleaning
Look for toys that are dishwasher safe and easy to clean under tap water if you do not want to invest your precious time into washing your dog’s toys.
Cleaning also gets simpler when the design of the toy is simple and does not have multiple attachments.
The easiest to clean would be rubber or plastic chew toys. While plastic is not dishwasher safe, it can be cleaned using hot water and mild soap with a sponge.
Make it a habit to clean your dog’s toys at least once a week to avoid germs and pathogens from cultivating on its surface and keep your dog’s toys hygienic for use.
Quality
When we don’t compromise on the quality of toys and accessories for our children, why do so for our dogs? Therefore, before purchasing a dog toy, look for reliable and trustworthy manufacturing labels.
Dog toys that are manufactured in the USA are usually considered to be of high quality as they source the raw materials from premium sources and do not use any chemicals, dyes, or toxic substances in the manufacturing process.
Read the toy label carefully and check for the materials used before purchasing anything for your pet.
Types of Toys for Large Dogs
There are various types of toys available for dogs. However, not all of them are meant for large dogs and giant breeds. We have listed the types of dog toys that are suitable for large dogs and breeds.
Chew Toys
Large dog breeds tend to get aggressive and wild as well as anxious. Therefore chew toys are a great tool to calm them down.
Large dogs and giant dog breeds have natural instincts of chewing and biting onto whatever they find. This can include your shoes, furniture, clothes, etc.
Therefore, in order to reduce their aggressive behavior towards your belongings and furniture, you can get them to chew toys. These are made of rubber or hard cloth which can sustain aggressive pulling and chewing.
Moreover, certain chew toys are made of natural rubber that helps in improving your pet’s oral and dental health to keep their carnivore instincts alive.
Fetch Toys
It is very necessary to keep your large and giant dog active and agile for which you need to keep them moving and running.
One of the best ways to indulge them in running and exercising is to get them to fetch toys. This could be anything, from a ball to a frisbee.
There are various ball launchers also available that can help you shoot the ball across large distances so your dog is encouraged to run farther.
This increases their endurance and activity levels and also teaches them to obey and understand commands.
Tug Toys
Tug toys are not only a great tool to keep your fidos pulling and tugging instincts alive but also to increase your bond with your pet.
You can spend quality time allowing him to tug and pull onto rope toys while watching your dog enjoy to his heart’s content.
Tug toys are usually available as bumper toys or rope toys. Rope toys consist of durable rope fibers that are strong and durable.
These ropes also help in flossing your dog’s teeth with repeated use. Tug toys are also known to increase the strength and endurance of dogs.
Puzzle Toys
Puzzle toys are a great way to stimulate your giant dog mentally. These toys can indulge your pet into hours of thinking and solving, thereby increasing your dog’s capability and making them sharper and smarter.
Puzzle toys are available at varying difficulty levels and you can increase the difficulties once your dog solves the puzzle. If he solves it correctly, you can give him the treat to encourage him to solve and play more.
These toys can keep him occupied for a long time especially when you are away from home or busy with work.
Treat Toys
Treat Toys make your large dog happy and excited because who doesn’t like treats?
Dogs always look forward to treats and hence this is the best way to make them obey your commands or make them do any activity. Treat toys are every dog’s favorite, be it large or small.
Each time he receives a treat after the activity, he associates the action with receiving a reward and does it diligently.
Treat toys have hidden openings that can be used for playing as well as feeding your pet. These openings dispense the treat automatically once your dog is done playing.
Tips & Tricks for Playing with Large Dogs
While large dogs are equally fun as small pups and pets, there are some specific aspects that you may encounter while playing with large dog breeds that can be controlled and taken care of.
Read on to know some tips on playing it safe with your giant dog breed.
Supervise Your Pet
No matter how indestructible they might be, if your dog gets angry and ferocious, then there is no looking back. He may end up tearing the toy apart or destroying it to bits and if he ingests any part or parts of the toy, then it can be dangerous.
Therefore, unless it’s a large toy or a simple dog toy, keep an eye out for your pet to avoid any unwanted complications. The moment you feel that your dog is about to destroy the toy, take no time to pull it back and keep the toy in a safe place.
Care While Playing
No matter how friendly your dog is, if he indulges in any kind of ferocious activity like excessive tugging orbiting, which is a general tendency of large dogs, be careful to distract him.
Use a toy or his favorite food as bait to distract him if he acts destructive or violent with other pets in your house.
Exercise for Large Dogs
Large dogs tend to gain weight quite easily and hence it is important that he indulges in a routine level of exercise along with proper nutrition.
Take him for regular walks and research the activity levels your dog needs per day. This will keep him healthy and playful for years.
Indulge in Indoor Games
While it is good to play with your dog outdoors, at times, the surrounding environment may not be conducive due to the weather or work. This can make your dog anxious and restless, especially larger dog breeds.
Hence, you can always teach him an indoor game or two like hiding and seek, puzzle games, playing with chew toys or playing fetch indoors if you have a large space.
This will keep your large dog engaged and occupied without making him anxious to play every time.
FAQs for the Best Large Dog Toys
The best way to entertain your large dog is to get him a dog toy. Dog toys can keep your pup engaged and entertained for hours of playing while you remain busy.
Other ways of entertaining your pet include taking him for a walk, keeping them engaged with puzzle games, or hiding treats around the house for them to keep finding.
Yes! Large dogs tend to get aggressive and rough with their dog toys and hence, they are meant to be very durable and tough.
They do not break even when subjected to extreme pulling and tugging and are made of durable materials like rubber or rope. Chew toys and tug toys are known to be the most durable of all dog toys for large dogs.
Yes! Large dog toys are extremely good for tough chewers as they have a tendency of breaking and tear their toys apart very easily due to their rigorous chewing and tugging habits.
Large dog toys are made to be durable and tough that are made of strong materials. These materials can sustain extreme chewing and hence, are very good for tough chewers.
Large dog toys can cost anywhere between $6-$26 depending upon the type, design, material and brand. The most budget large dog toy would be the Nylabone Power Chew Large Dog Toy that costs around $6-$8.
A premium choice of large dog toy would be the Chuckit! Kick Fetch Ball Large Dog Toy that costs around $22-$25. The best large dog toy is the KONG – Extreme Large Dog Toys that costs around $13-$15.
According to us, the best large dog toy is the KONG – Extreme Large Dog Toys that allows your dog to chew and savor the hidden treat for hours.
A premium choice of large dog toys would be the Chuckit! Kick Fetch Ball Large Dog Toy that makes for a perfect game of fetch and offers a perfect grip while fetching.
One of the best large dog toys under a budget would be the Nylabone Power Chew Large Dog Toy that is very hard and perfect for aggressive chewers.
Final Note
Dogs can show varied behaviour towards their toys. Especially in the case of large dogs who are known to be aggressive and tough with their toys.
Therefore, large dog toys are specifically made to cater to their needs and allow them to treat their toys their way.
These toys are generally made of rubber or rope as well as cotton fibres that can sustain extreme chewing, pulling or tugging. These are. made of pet-safe materials and are extremely beneficial to keep your pet engaged.
Read our reviews on the best large dog toys while you can watch your giant mate enjoy and have a gala time.
References:
- Schade, V. C. (2021, February 10). Dog-Tested, Trainer-Approved Dog Toys. PetMD. Retrieved August 25, 2022, from https://www.petmd.com/dog/training/dog-tested-trainer-approved-dog-toys
- Tips for Buying Dog Toys | Pet Talk. (2022, March 11). VMBS News. Retrieved August 25, 2022, from https://vetmed.tamu.edu/news/pet-talk/tips-for-buying-dog-toys/
Dwana is our best team member when it comes to taking care of pets on daily basis. This is because she used to be a full-time pet sitter before joining DogLovesBest. Besides contributing her precious knowledge on dog care tips and everyday-use pet products, she still does dog walking as part of her hobby in her free time.
Contents
- A Quick Comparison of Our Favorites in 2023
- The 10 Best Large Dog Toys of 2023
- 1. KONG – Extreme Large Dog Toy — Best Overall
- 2. Chuckit! Kick Fetch Ball Large Dog Toy — Premium Choice
- 3. Nylabone Power Chew Large Dog Toy — Best Value
- 4. Outward Hound Nina Ottoson Puzzle Dog Toys
- 5. KONG Air Squeaker Dog Toy
- 6. The Dog’s Balls Tennis Balls for Large Dogs
- 7. Mary & Kate Pets XL Dog Rope Toys
- 8. goDog Amphibianz Durable Big Dog Plush Toy
- 9. Pet Champion Giant Dog Rope Toy
- 10. Elk Antler Dog Chew for Large and Extra Large Dogs
- Buyer’s Guide: Choosing the Best Large Dog Toys
- Types of Toys for Large Dogs
- Tips & Tricks for Playing with Large Dogs
- FAQs for the Best Large Dog Toys
- Final Note