Perhaps the single most perfect embodiment of the “gentle giant” descriptor, the sheer magnitude of a Leonberger’s size and strength stands in direct contrast to his affectionate nature, unending patience, and overall sweetness.
Leonbergers are often compared to lions due to their lush mane and intimidating physique, but they’re more like sweeter, more devoted lap kitties in terms of attitude.
As regal and majestic they may be, these canines are anything but snobs. They’re at their happiest when they spend time with their families, whether they’re playing with kids or cuddling with their humans.
However, they’re merely homebodies: these dogs also excel at a wide range of jobs with their impressive intelligence levels, muscular build, and incredible work ethic.
Because Leonbergers are such bright, powerful canines, they need vigorous physical and mental exercises on a daily basis in order to thrive.
If you own a Leonberger or wish to get one of your own, it’s important to buy him durable, high-quality toys that will help him stay physically fit and mentally sharp. To help you make the right purchase, we’ve put together a quick rundown on the 5 best dog toys for Leonbergers!
1. Goughnuts Indestructible Ring Chew Toy: Ultra-Durable Chew Toy for Power Chewers
Small chew toys that are easily ripped apart may be a choking hazard to Leonbergers. Choose the Goughnuts Indestructible Ring Chew Toy for your huge pup instead! This large, nearly indestructible chew toy is designed by engineers who make rubber for spaceships, guaranteeing durability like no other.
Its ultra-tough material and heavy-duty construction ensure that it can outlast even the most aggressive chewing, allowing your pup to safely chew on it all day long if he pleases. Plus, it satisfies your pup’s urge to chew, helping keep him away from furniture, shoes, jewelry, and other valuable items.
- Indestructible chew toy built for power chewers
- Made from ultra-durable material
- Keeps your pup occupied and ensures he doesn’t chew on your belongings
2. KONG Durable Flyer: Offers Safe & More Fun Frisbee Games
Make fetch games and frisbee games a blast with the KONG Durable Flyer! This soft frisbee toy is crafted with natural rubber, making it fly farther and stay in the air longer. Every time you toss this toy, your pup is sure to leap and run to chase after it with energy and enthusiasm.
Unlike hard plastic frisbees, its flexible material also ensures a softer catch, meaning it won’t harm your pup’s teeth even when he plays rough or catches it mid-air. Its durable material also withstands regular use and powerful chewing—perfect for hours of fun outdoor games!
- Encourages your pup to run, jump, and play
- Ensures a softer catch that won’t harm your dog’s teeth
- Designed for durability even with regular use
3. Planet Dog Treat Dispensing Toy: Provides Mental Exercises & Encourages Healthy Eating Habits
Mental stimulation is a necessity for most dogs, and Leonbergers are no exception. The Planet Dog Treat Dispensing Toy exercises your pup’s brain and engages his senses; not only does it encourage slower eating for healthy digestion, but it also sharpens his problem-solving skills.
All you have to do is pop it open, fill it with treats, and give it to your pup—watch as he sniffs, paws, and tries different ways to get to all those yummy rewards! It’s also made with durable, BPA-free material that’s built for ultimate safety and durability. Best of all, it’s infused with mint oil to freshen your Leonberger’s breath as he plays and chews!
- Provides brain teasers while encouraging physical activity & slower eating
- Freshens nasty dog breath with mint oil
- Easy to clean and may be used as a fetch toy
4. Mammoth TireBiter Dog Toy: All-in-One Toy
Looking for a toy that does it all? The Mammoth TireBiter is a chew toy, tug toy, and throwing toy all in one package! The tire is made with natural, extra-strength rubber that can outlast powerful chewing, giving your pup hours of long-lasting chewing fun.
The tough cotton-poly rope is designed for challenging tug-of-war games, staying intact no matter how much your pup tugs and pulls. If your pup isn’t in the mood for this, you can simply toss this toy and get him to play fetch. This toy is perfect for both interactive and independent play, ensuring your Leonberger stays active whether he’s indoors or outdoors!
- Perfect for tugging or tossing games
- Outlasts aggressive chewing and cleans your pup’s teeth
- Can be used for both independent and interactive play
5. Nero Ball Ultra: Perfect Training Tool for Leonbergers
A training tool used by K-9 police officers and military dog handlers worldwide, the Nero Ball Ultra is a toy designed to help you train your pup successfully as well as enjoy playing with him. It comes with a rope that allows you to throw the ball further with less effort, making playtime more challenging for your pup and easier for you.
This way, you can play fetch with your pup for hours or train him on busy days without tiring yourself out. It’s designed to outlast regular use to encourage more movement and vigorous play without wearing out. As a bonus, you can remove the rope and have your pup use the ball as a chew toy!
- Makes games more enjoyable and less tiring
- Encourages your pup to follow commands and engage in vigorous activity
- Can also be used as a chew toy
How to Keep Your Leonberger Active
There’s truly nothing like the love of a Leonberger; their warmth, kindness, and utter devotion are rare and precious gifts anyone would be lucky to receive. However, even the sweetest Leonberger may become destructive if left to his own devices without stimulation. He may also become obese or depressed if he doesn’t get the vigorous exercise he needs daily.
Here are a few ways to make sure your Leonberger stays a fit, active, and happy pup:
Exercise your Leonberger for at least 2 hours every day
It’s important to walk your Leonberger for at least 1 to 2 hours daily; make sure to split these hours into 2 long walks. However, walks may not be enough to tire out your Leonberger and see to it that he expends all his energy.
If you’re an avid runner, biker, hiker, or swimmer, you can tag your Leonberger along on all your activities and adventures! Not only will this ensure your pup gets more physical activity, but it will also help you make memories with him.
Play with your Leonberger and give him mentally stimulating toys
Even if your Leonberger gets walked and enjoys a healthy amount of exercise every day, it’s still best to play with him and give him interactive toys. Remember: dogs don’t just need physical workouts. They need mental stimulation, too!
Puzzle toys and fetch toys are great choices for sharpening both your pup’s physical and cognitive skill sets. Plus, they can help keep him entertained and prevent separation anxiety when you’re out of the house.
Train your Leonberger and involve him in jobs or dog sports
Proper training will help increase your Leonberger’s physical activity and help him become a happy, obedient, and well-adjusted canine. Make sure to put him in group obedience classes for more training and better socialization.
Leonbergers also thrive when they’re given work to do: this breed excels at search-and-rescue training, lifeguarding, farming tasks, and therapy work. You can also involve him in dog sports such as agility, tracking, and dock diving.
In Closing
Massive in size yet softies at heart, Leonbergers are patient, warm-hearted dogs who love nothing more than spending quality time with their families. As such, it’s important to make sure you play with him every day and keep him occupied when you’re away.
Giving your Leonberger high-quality toys is the best way to achieve this. Go ahead and choose a toy from the list we’ve presented above. Any one of those options will make great tools for training, interactive games, and independent playtime—helping your pup stay fit and strengthening your relationship with him at the same time!