Despite their massive size, Great Danes are known for being incredibly lethargic and affectionate towards their owners.
The phrase “gentle giant” perfectly describes this breed and they are renowned for being the largest lap dogs in the world. Despite their size, they have an incredibly calm temperament. Although he is amongst the largest of canines, he has a loving personality and adores everyone he meets.
Which toys are the most suitable for this big and calm Great Dane?
Shall we take a look at it?
Our Picks for the Top Toys for Great Danes
Best Chew Toys for Great Danes – KONG Extreme Dog Toy, XX-Large
KONG toys are well-known for their ability to withstand the pressure of almost any mouth.
Considering that this reputation has been consistently upheld over time, it is only logical to endorse this enormous toy as a suitable plaything for your Great Dane. However, it is not solely the toy’s remarkable resilience that convinces us.
Developing a consistent routine around the KONG Extreme can help your Great Dane combat feelings of anxiety or distress. The treat-holding feature of the toy plays a significant role in this as it gives your canine a goal to focus on, redirecting their energy in a positive manner. As a result, your dog will be occupied trying to access the delectable treat inside the toy, in turn helping to alleviate any nervousness or separation anxiety they may experience.
Moreover, the peculiar shape of the toy and its unpredictable bounces hold significant promise to amuse your dog even in your absence, without any treats concealed inside.
It’s advisable to ensure that your dog has enough space to play with the KONG Extreme when you give it to him, or else you may end up regretting it.
Best Bones for Great Danes – USA Bones & Chews Elk Antler
How can you make a mistake when choosing a chew toy that is from Mother Nature?
The antlers of elks are shed naturally to facilitate the growth of new ones, which means that the chews made from them are completely renewable and cruelty-free. Additionally, these chews are devoid of any chemicals, and do not cause allergies or emit unpleasant smells.
Not only does this benefit teeth and gums, it also provides necessary trace minerals like calcium and phosphorous to your Great Dane.
Virtually Indestructible Ball
Playing with a large breed such as a Great Dane may call for creative ideas and unconventional approaches.
A big ball can provide Great Danes with excellent entertainment as they enjoy swatting, gnawing on, or indulging in overall playful naughtiness with it.
The breed’s potency in its jaws coupled with its playful and lively nature as puppies may lead to a ball’s destruction if it’s not sturdy enough.
Luckily, the ball is able to withstand rough play, which is why it’s called “Virtually Indestructible”. Constructed from high-quality polyurethane, it is definitely designed for the vigorous play of large dogs.
Jolly Pets Romp-n-Roll
What could be a better favorite toy for dogs than a ball? Yes, a ball that comes with a rope!
There’s endless fun to be had with this smashing combination. Toss it about, chase it, fetch it, pull it, chew it, play tug-of-war… you get the picture.
Not only is it enjoyable, it also provides dental and jaw strengthening benefits. Made of non-toxic material that cannot be punctured, your Great Dane can safely play with it for extended periods of time.
USA Bones & Chews Rope & Bones
Do you notice our fondness for toys that come with ropes? This excellent chewing toy possesses an extra boost of appeal due to the rope feature.
This toy is proudly made in the USA and is of superior quality. The rope segments come in vibrant colors and are crafted from a blend of cotton fibers. Additionally, the bones are completely organic and have been roasted to perfection to ensure they maintain the right level of moisture and don’t become brittle or prone to splintering.
This is a fantastic combination of a toy and a treat that effectively supports the health of a dog’s teeth and gums.
Great Danes at Play
While Great Danes do possess a calm temperament, they still require ample opportunities for physical activity and recreation. However, it is worth noting that the activities that are suitable for Great Danes tend to be relatively intricate compared to those that other dogs of their size can partake in.
If your Great Dane is an adult, you should be ready to spend between 30 minutes to an hour exercising with him every day, based on his age. If your furry friend is a puppy, increase the exercise time to 90 minutes.
This is where it becomes a little tricky. The Great Dane has been selectively bred as a house pet and prefers to avoid prolonged exposure to the elements, particularly if it is excessively hot or cold. Nonetheless, since young Great Danes often have the urge to run around wildly, it is critical to engage them in outdoor activities to allow them to release their energy.
Great Danes’ friendly demeanor may result in them enjoying some gentle playful behavior with their owner, such as standing on their hind legs and making eye contact. However, it is important to regulate these activities to prevent unintentional injuries resulting from excessive exuberance.
It is essential to provide a spacious area for your Great Dane, no matter where you choose to have fun with it. Living in an apartment is not suitable for this breed. If you have a house, ensure that you have a backyard available for outdoor playtime.
It is advisable to keep an eye on your Great Dane puppy when he is playing outside as they are known to dig and can easily destroy your garden without hesitation. Given their size, even as a puppy, the amount of damage they can cause is substantial.
What Toys are Best Suited for Great Danes?
Since Great Danes enjoy moving around during outdoor activities, items that can be utilized in a game of fetch are quite suitable. Additionally, they will get a lot of amusement from batting and going after balls independently. Because of their large size, they can perform well while running around with large balls that would be proportional to the size of a toy breed.
Providing great danes with the right dog toys can fulfill their inner dog’s desires and contribute to dental health. Dental issues are an especially concerning risk for this breed, making chew toys an advantageous choice as they can help prevent preventable dental problems.
BONUS: Best Dog Toys, According to the Experts: Our Dogs
Dogs are the ultimate companions, often welcoming us with adorable grins and wagging tails. They are known for their affectionate, fun-loving personalities, yet they can also be highly selective and particular when it comes to toys. Picking out the perfect playthings for our furry pals often requires a trial-and-error approach, and can be a challenging task. So, in order to make sure we get it right, we’ve enlisted the help of some true experts: our beloved canines, who are rewarded with treats and affection for their input.
It is advisable for dog enthusiasts to explore the possibility of discovering top-quality dog toys that will keep their beloved pets engaged and entertained even in their absence, instead of consistently engaging in games such as throwing balls or playing tug of war repeatedly.
Numerous options exist when it comes to dog toys, ranging from frisbees, balls, squeakers, puzzles, to food-focused gadgets. However, it’s common knowledge among dog owners that a toy can either captivate or fail to amuse the pet. It’s possible for a dog to display no interest in a toy or gnaw on it briefly, leaving it in tatters. Consequently, how can one determine the most suitable dog toys that will provide extended periods of playtime and amusement?
Our canine friends were consulted as experts.
Here, you’ll discover a diverse range of dog toys that cater to different peculiarities and inclinations of each canine. Regardless of your pet’s size, tendencies for chewing or tugging, you’ll undoubtedly discover an item on this list that will capture their affection. These are the top-notch dog toys that have succeeded in mesmerizing our dogs entirely.
Outward Hound Dog Tornado Puzzle
If you have a dog that craves your attention all the time, you would go to any lengths to keep them occupied for a little while. This puzzle toy will help you achieve just that. It comprises three revolving trays where you can hide treats, compelling your dog to put in some effort for their treat.
Wild Knots Bears Durable Dog Toy
This particular toy is capable of enduring a lot of wear and tear and it caters to all of the activities that may keep a dog occupied indefinitely. It is equipped with a rope and several squeakers to attract and maintain their attention, and my dog typically uses it as their cuddle toy.
Kong Extreme Dog Toy
When pets are left alone, they tend to become anxious and may resort to nibbling holes in the living room carpet if they do not have anything to chew on. To avoid this, it is recommended to give them Kongs filled with peanut butter or mozzarella cheese, or a combination of both, before leaving for a few hours. This will keep your furry friends content and engaged until you return.
Fluff and Tuff Ball
Many dogs can easily shred most plush toys in mere minutes, but this Fluff and Tuff ball can withstand weeks of rough play without showing any signs of damage.
Outward Hound Dog Hide N’ Slide Puzzle
Apart from their owners, dogs have a strong affection for two things: toys and food. With this puzzle, you can combine both elements to offer your furry friend hours of amusement. It serves as a great alternative when you’re unable to take your dog for a walk in the evenings. Although it seems intricate with its moving plastic pieces, setting it up is pretty simple. You only need to conceal some treats or kibble in the hidden compartments, place the plastic door over them, slide the slider across to keep the door closed, and you’re good to go.
Aerobie Dogobie Disc
The silicone disc is highly durable and simple to throw and retrieve. Its vibrant hues make it effortless to locate even if it lands in the foliage.
FAQs
Do dogs really need toys?
Toys may seem unimportant for dogs, but they are crucial to their overall welfare as well as your own serenity. A dog that is not bored, but rather tired and mentally stimulated, tends to be less mischievous than one that is idle. Toys have the power to reshape undesirable actions, provide mental stimulation, exhaust the dog, and present an ideal channel for those dogs that love to chew destructively.
What kind of toys do dogs love the most?
To find the best toys for your dog, it’s important to consider their unique personality and energy levels. Dog toys can typically be categorized into three groups.
- Active toys: Balls and frisbees, as well as ropes and woven toys for tugging, are great for interactive play and getting your dog their much-needed exercise. If your dog is very active, such toys can also be used as training motivators.
- Enrichment toys: These toys keep your dog occupied and mentally stimulated. They can range from puzzles and treat-dispensing toys to a durable, rubber toy that you stuff with treats like the Kong. By working to get at the treats, your dog is trying to “solve a problem,” which stimulates their brain and gives them something to do. These kinds of toys are designed to keep your dog engaged when you’re busy with something else or not able to with them.
- Comfort toys: Did you have a favorite stuffy or doll when you were a child? Dogs aren’t all that different and can get just as much comfort out of carrying around a favorite toy. Anxious dogs in particular might benefit from having a stuffed companion. Just be careful since some dogs are aggressive chewers and shouldn’t be given soft toys. And avoid stuffies with squeakers, which can be easily removed and swallowed.
What are the best dog toys for chewers?
It’s common for dogs to engage in chewing, but if your pet has a tendency to chew on inappropriate items, it’s best to provide appropriate substitutes. Cooked bones are not recommended due to their potential to break into small fragments that can harm the dog’s throat or digestive system. A better alternative is a commercially produced easily digestible item such as Greenies or a hard rubber chew such as a Nylabone or Kong. Always seek your veterinarian’s advice on the safest options for your dog.
