Top 10 Essential Toys for Rhodesian Ridgebacks: Active Dog Guide

Rhodesian Ridgebacks are big, energetic dogs that need plenty of mental and physical stimulation. Picking the right toys for your Ridgeback is key to keeping them happy and healthy. The right playthings can help burn off extra energy and prevent boredom.

Toys for Rhodesian Ridgebacks should be tough, durable, and engaging to match their size and personality. When choosing toys, think about your dog’s chewing habits, activity level, and favorite games. A mix of toys for different purposes will keep your Ridgeback entertained and active throughout the day.

1. Kong Classic Dog Toy

The Kong Classic Dog Toy is a must-have for your Rhodesian Ridgeback. This durable rubber toy is designed to withstand strong chewing, making it perfect for this large, powerful breed. You can fill the Kong with treats or peanut butter to keep your Ridgeback engaged for hours. This helps satisfy their natural chewing instincts and provides mental stimulation.

2. Chuckit! Ultra Ball

The Chuckit! Ultra Ball is a top choice for Rhodesian Ridgebacks. This toy is designed to withstand the strong jaws of large breeds like your Ridgeback. The ball is made from durable rubber that can handle intense chewing. It’s bouncy and buoyant, perfect for fetch games on land or in water.

3. Nylabone Dura Chew

Rhodesian Ridgebacks are powerful chewers, and they need toys that can stand up to their strong jaws. The Nylabone Dura Chew is a great option for these large, energetic dogs. Made from tough nylon, this toy is designed to last. It can withstand even the most intense chewing sessions, giving your Ridgeback a long-lasting plaything.

4. Outward Hound Hide-A-Squirrel

The Outward Hound Hide-A-Squirrel plush puzzle toy is a great choice for your Rhodesian Ridgeback. This interactive toy taps into your dog’s natural hunting instincts, keeping them engaged and entertained. The toy consists of a plush tree trunk with holes and several squeaky squirrels. You can hide the squirrels inside the trunk for your Ridgeback to find and remove.

5. Benebone Wishbone Chew Toy

The Benebone Wishbone Chew Toy is an excellent choice for your Rhodesian Ridgeback. It’s designed for aggressive chewers, making it perfect for this strong and energetic breed. Your Ridgeback will love the real bacon flavor infused into this toy. The unique wishbone shape allows for easy gripping, so your dog can hold and chew comfortably.

6. PetSafe Busy Buddy Tug-A-Jug

The PetSafe Busy Buddy Tug-A-Jug is an excellent toy for your Rhodesian Ridgeback. It’s designed to challenge and reward your dog simultaneously, making it perfect for this intelligent and energetic breed. This toy appeals to all five of your Ridgeback’s senses. Your dog can see, smell, and hear the treats inside while moving the Tug-A-Jug around to get them.

7. Jolly Pets Romp-n-Roll Ball

The Jolly Pets Romp-n-Roll Ball is a great toy for your Rhodesian Ridgeback. This versatile ball can be kicked, tugged, thrown, carried, and launched, making it perfect for active play. Your Ridgeback will love the ball’s durability. It’s designed to keep its shape even if punctured, so you don’t have to worry about it deflating during playtime.

8. West Paw Zogoflex Hurley

The West Paw Zogoflex Hurley is a top choice for Rhodesian Ridgebacks. This durable bone-shaped toy is made in the USA from tough Zogoflex material. Your Ridgeback will love chewing on this toy. It’s a safe alternative to wooden sticks and can withstand heavy chewing. The Hurley is bouncy and floats, making it great for fetch games on land or in water.

9. ZippyPaws Skinny Peltz

ZippyPaws Skinny Peltz are a great toy option for your Rhodesian Ridgeback. These plush dog toys come in a set of three, featuring woodland creatures like a fox, raccoon, and squirrel. What makes these toys special is their lack of stuffing. This means less mess if your Ridgeback manages to tear them apart. It’s a practical choice for dogs who love to play rough.

10. Ethical Pet Skinneeez

Ethical Pet Skinneeez are a great toy option for your Rhodesian Ridgeback. These toys are stuffing-free, which means less mess if your dog manages to tear them. The lack of stuffing also allows the squeaker to move freely inside the toy. This feature keeps your Ridgeback interested and engaged for longer periods.

Can’t Decide On Just One Toy? Build a Box of Toys

If you want to buy multiple toys, it’s more practical and cost-effective to build a box of toys. Choose as many toys as you want in your box, from categories like soft & chewy treats, crunchy treats, tug toys, plush toys, fetch toys and jerky treats. There are also fun and quirky add-ons like dog beer, freeze-dried treats, bully sticks and more.

Your box will be built with products that are specifically designed for large dogs like Rhodesian Ridgebacks. You can either choose a one-time box or a subscription if you want to get a box every month, every two months or every three months.

Understanding the Needs of Rhodesian Ridgebacks

Rhodesian Ridgebacks are unique dogs with specific needs. They require plenty of exercise and mental stimulation to stay happy and healthy.

Physical Characteristics and Activity Levels

Rhodesian Ridgebacks are large, powerful dogs with high energy levels. They need lots of physical activity to stay fit and content. You should plan for at least 1-2 hours of exercise daily. This can include walks, runs, or playtime in a fenced yard.

Ridgebacks excel in activities like:

• Hiking
• Jogging
• Agility training
• Swimming

Their strong build means they need durable toys. Choose toys that can withstand their powerful jaws and won’t break easily.

Mental Stimulation Requirements

Rhodesian Ridgebacks are smart dogs that need mental challenges. Without enough brain work, they may become bored and destructive.

You can keep your Ridgeback’s mind active with:

• Puzzle toys
• Training sessions
• Scent work games
• Hide-and-seek with toys or treats

Interactive toys are great for this breed. They encourage problem-solving and keep your dog engaged. Rotate your Ridgeback’s toys regularly. This keeps things interesting and prevents boredom. Remember, a tired Ridgeback is a happy Ridgeback. Balancing physical exercise with mental stimulation is key to a well-behaved, content dog.

Safety Considerations for Dog Toys

Choosing safe toys for your Rhodesian Ridgeback is crucial. You need to think about durability, materials, and size to keep your dog happy and healthy.

Durability and Material Safety

• Pick toys made from tough, non-toxic materials. Rubber toys like the KONG Classic are great choices. They can stand up to heavy chewing and won’t break into small pieces.
• Avoid toys with small parts that could come off. These might be swallowed and cause choking or digestive issues.
• Check toys regularly for wear and tear. Replace them if you see any damage. This helps prevent your dog from eating pieces that could harm them.
• Natural chew toys can be safe options too. But always supervise your dog when they’re chewing on natural items like bones or antlers.

Size Appropriateness for Rhodesian Ridgebacks

• Rhodesian Ridgebacks are large, strong dogs. You need to pick toys that match their size and strength.
• Toys should be big enough that your dog can’t swallow them whole. A good rule is to choose toys larger than your dog’s mouth.
• Balls like the Planet Dog Orbee-Tuff are a good size for Ridgebacks. They’re too big to be a choking hazard but still easy for your dog to carry and play with.
• Avoid small toys meant for smaller breeds. These can be dangerous for your Ridgeback. Stick to toys designed for large breeds to keep playtime safe and fun.