When you’ve got a dog the size of a small horse, regular toys just don’t cut it. Giant breeds like Great Danes need toys that are not only safe and fun—but also strong enough to survive serious chewing, paw slaps, and full-body flops.
At Big Dog Things, we’re all about sourcing gear that holds up to real big dogs. And having tested our fair share with Mack the German Shepherd (and a few Dane friends), I’ve learned exactly what to look for.
1. Strength Comes First: Giant dogs = giant jaws. You need toys made from thick, heavy-duty rubber or rope—not flimsy plastic or thin fabrics.
Look for:
- Reinforced stitching
- Solid construction (not hollow)
- No small parts or weak seams
Recommended toys:
- Hard Ball for Large Dogs – nearly indestructible and great for fetch or chewing, available in 2 sizes
- Hard Red Ball on a Rope - heavy, satisfying to bite, and built for tug
2. Size Matters (More Than You Think): A toy that’s too small can be dangerous—easy to choke on, swallow, or ignore altogether. Giant breeds need oversized toys that match the scale of their mouths and paws.
Rule of thumb: If it looks like a regular dog toy in their mouth, it’s too small.
Recommended toys:
- Tug Toy – Black – big enough to grip and play safely, even during full-force tug
- Soft Indoor Ball - oversized and gentle for indoor play
3. Mental Enrichment Still Matters—But Make It Size-Appropriate: Just because your dog is big doesn’t mean they only need physical exercise. Mental stimulation is just as important, especially for calm but intelligent breeds like Great Danes.
That said, a lot of puzzle toys on the market are too small for giant breeds—with tiny compartments and lightweight construction that don’t suit big paws or large snouts.
Instead, try:
- DIY enrichment games (like hiding treats in rolled-up towels or boxes)
- Training sessions using tug or ball toys as rewards
- Scatter feeding using their regular kibble in open areas or on a snuffle mat
Recommended toys:
- Soft Indoor Ball – toss it, hide it, or ask your dog to “find it” indoors
- Tug Toy - Black - perfect as a high-value reward during obedience games
These activities give your dog something to think about—and mental work equals a tired, content dog.
4. Supervise & Rotate: Even the toughest toys don’t last forever. Always supervise play, especially with rope or rubber toys, and check for wear. Rotating toys weekly also keeps things fresh and exciting.
Bonus tip: Use different toys for different purposes—one for tug, one for fetch, one for chewing. This helps set boundaries and protects your gear.
Final Thoughts:
Giant breeds like Great Danes need toys built for their size, strength, and play style. Whether you’ve got a gentle giant or a playful powerhouse, the right toys will keep them safe, stimulated, and satisfied.
At Big Dog Things, every toy we stock is handpicked and tested on large (and giant) dogs—so you know it’s up to the task.