Teething is a challenging phase for both puppies and their owners. As your furry friend’s baby teeth make way for adult teeth, they’ll experience discomfort and an irresistible urge to chew. Providing the best chew toys for teething puppies can save your furniture, shoes, and sanity while keeping your pup happy and healthy. In this guide, we’ll explore the top chew toys for teething puppies, what to look for, and tips to make this phase easier for your little one.
Why Do Puppies Need Chew Toys During Teething?
Teething typically begins around 3-4 months and can last until 6-8 months. During this time, puppies experience:
- Sore gums: Chewing helps relieve pain and pressure.
- Exploration: Puppies use their mouths to explore the world.
- Destructive behavior: Without proper chew toys, they’ll turn to furniture, shoes, or other household items.
Chew toys provide a safe outlet for your puppy’s chewing instincts and help promote healthy dental development.
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What to Look for in a Chew Toy for Teething Puppies
When choosing a chew toy, consider the following factors:
- Safety: Non-toxic materials and no small parts that can be swallowed.
- Durability: Tough enough to withstand sharp puppy teeth but gentle on gums.
- Texture: Textured surfaces help massage sore gums and clean teeth.
- Size: Appropriate for your puppy’s breed and age.
- Ease of Cleaning: Machine-washable or easy to clean to maintain hygiene.
Top 5 Chew Toys for Teething Puppies
1. KONG Puppy Toy
- Why It’s Great: Made from soft, durable rubber, the KONG Puppy Toy is perfect for soothing sore gums. You can stuff it with treats or freeze it for added relief.
- Best For: Interactive play and mental stimulation.
- Price: 10−10−15
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2. Nylabone Puppy Chew Toys
- Why It’s Great: Designed specifically for teething puppies, Nylabone toys come in various textures and flavors to keep your pup engaged.
- Best For: Long-lasting chewing and dental health.
- Price: 5−5−10
3. Benebone Puppy Chew Toy
- Why It’s Great: Made from nylon and infused with real bacon flavor, this toy is highly durable and enticing for puppies.
- Best For: Aggressive chewers.
- Price: 10−10−15
4. Petstages Cool Teething Stick
- Why It’s Great: This toy can be chilled in the fridge to provide extra relief for sore gums. Its textured surface helps clean teeth and massage gums.
- Best For: Soothing discomfort and reducing inflammation.
- Price: 8−8−12
5. Outward Hound Hide-A-Squirrel Puzzle Toy
- Why It’s Great: Combines chewing with mental stimulation. Puppies can chew on the plush squirrel while enjoying a fun puzzle game.
- Best For: Playful puppies who love interactive toys.
- Price: 15−15−20
Tips for Using Chew Toys Safely
- Supervise Playtime: Always monitor your puppy to ensure they don’t swallow small pieces.
- Rotate Toys: Keep your puppy interested by rotating their toys regularly.
- Clean Regularly: Wash chew toys to prevent bacteria buildup.
- Avoid Hard Toys: Steer clear of toys that are too hard, as they can damage your puppy’s teeth.
Final Thoughts
Teething is a natural but challenging phase for puppies, and the best chew toys for teething puppies can make all the difference. By choosing safe, durable, and engaging toys, you can help your puppy through this stage while protecting your home from their chewing instincts. Remember, patience and supervision are key—soon, your pup will have a healthy set of adult teeth and a lifetime of happy chewing ahead!
FAQs On Chew Toys for Teething Puppies
Q.1 What is the best thing for a puppy to chew on when teething?
The best things for a teething puppy to chew on are soft, durable, and textured toys designed specifically for teething. Some top options include:
KONG Puppy Toy: Soft rubber that’s gentle on gums and can be stuffed with treats or frozen for extra relief.
Nylabone Puppy Chew Toys: Textured and flavored to keep puppies engaged while soothing their gums.
Petstages Cool Teething Stick: Can be chilled in the fridge to provide cooling relief for sore gums.
Q.2 At what age can puppies have teething toys?
Puppies can start using teething toys as early as 8 weeks old, when they begin to explore the world with their mouths. Teething typically starts around 3-4 months and lasts until 6-8 months, so it’s important to provide appropriate chew toys throughout this phase.
Tip: Choose toys specifically labeled for puppies, as they are softer and safer for developing teeth and gums.
Q.3 What is the safest thing for puppies to chew on?
The safest chew toys for puppies are made from non-toxic, durable materials and are specifically designed for teething. Look for:
Soft rubber toys (e.g., KONG Puppy Toy)
Textured nylon toys (e.g., Nylabone Puppy Chew Toys)
Chillable toys (e.g., Petstages Cool Teething Stick)
Avoid: Hard toys, bones, antlers, or anything that can splinter or break into small pieces.
Q.4 Are hard or soft toys better for teething puppies?
Soft toys are better for teething puppies because they are gentle on sore gums and less likely to damage developing teeth. Hard toys can be too harsh and may cause fractures or other dental issues.
Tip: Look for toys labeled “for puppies” or “soft chew” to ensure they’re appropriate for your pup’s age and teething stage.
