Teething is a natural but sometimes frustrating stage for puppies. Just like human babies, puppies experience sore gums and a strong urge to chew as their adult teeth come in. The right chew toys can provide relief, protect your furniture, and keep your puppy happily occupied. Choosing safe, durable, and age-appropriate options is key to making teething easier for both you and your pup.
Why Safe Chew Toys Are Important
Not all chew toys are created equal. Unsafe toys can break into sharp pieces, damage your puppy’s teeth, or pose a choking hazard. Puppies have smaller jaws and developing teeth, so they need softer yet durable options that are designed for teething stages.
Qualities of a Safe Chew Toy
A good teething toy should be made from non-toxic materials, be size-appropriate for your puppy’s breed, and have no small parts that could be swallowed. It should also be easy to clean, as puppies are prone to drooling while chewing.
Best Chew Toy Options for Teething Puppies
Soft Rubber Toys
Toys like the KONG Puppy are designed with gentle rubber that soothes gums without being too hard. You can even stuff them with treats or freeze them for extra relief.
Nylon Chew Toys
Brands like Nylabone Puppy Chews make softer versions for young dogs. They’re durable, safe, and available in fun shapes and flavors.
Rope Toys
Cotton rope toys are great for gentle chewing and also help clean teeth naturally. Be sure to choose high-quality ropes that won’t fray easily.
Frozen Treat Toys
Some toys are designed to hold water or broth, which you can freeze to provide cooling relief for sore gums. This also keeps your puppy entertained for longer periods.
Plush Toys with Reinforced Seams
While plush toys aren’t ideal for heavy chewers, reinforced plush options can provide comfort and light chewing satisfaction for younger or gentler puppies.
Toys to Avoid During Teething
Avoid bones that are too hard, small toys that could be swallowed, or cheaply made items that break apart easily. Also steer clear of human items like old shoes or socks—this can encourage bad chewing habits later.
Tips for Using Chew Toys Effectively
- Rotate toys to keep your puppy interested
- Supervise chewing sessions, especially with new toys
- Wash toys regularly to prevent bacteria buildup
- Offer a variety of textures to keep your puppy engaged
Final Thoughts
The right chew toys can make the teething stage much smoother for your puppy and protect your belongings from unwanted damage. By choosing safe, size-appropriate, and engaging toys, you’ll help your pup through this temporary phase while encouraging healthy chewing habits for life. 🐾 PetsDogPuppy