The Best Toys for Teething Puppies

So, you’ve brought home a puppy and life as you knew it seems to have turned on its head. The cute furball runs and prances about the house, and suddenly, your whole world revolves around their every little move. You’re gushing, you’re smitten, you’re hopeless in love. Until this little goofball turns into a chewy monster, driving those pin needle teeth through everything—from shoes to furniture to your arms. Well, this relentless chewing isn’t just a quirk, it’s a sign that your puppy is teething—a phase that lasts several months. The only way you can protect your home and your belongings during this time, as well as keep your pet safe by making sure they don’t end up chewing on something hazardous, is by stocking up on puppy teething toys. 

Now, the question is which ones to buy? Given the endless array of options, choosing cost-effective and durable puppy toys can seem overwhelming, especially if you’re new to pet parenting or just someone who struggles with indecisiveness while shopping. Allow me to help with this selection of the best toys for teething puppies, carefully handpicked to simplify at least one puppy parenting decision for you.  

Why Teething Toys are Essential for Puppies

At around three weeks of age, puppies begin teething—a process that continues till they’re about six months old. During this time, their baby teeth (yes, those sharp pin needle teeth I was referring to) are replaced with adult teeth. The process can cause their gums to become sore and inflamed, causing them considerable discomfort. Chewing helps provide teething relief for puppies.

Dr. Sarah Wooten, DVM, says, “Teething is a natural but uncomfortable process for puppies. Chewing helps relieve gum soreness and promotes the healthy eruption of adult teeth.” That’s why puppies tend to chew on anything and everything in their reach. Without proper puppy teething toys at their disposal, your pet may turn to inappropriate objects for relief, which can lead to destructive behaviors and potential hazards.

In fact, studies on canine behavior reinforce the importance of proper chewing outlets during the teething phase. A 2018 study published in Frontiers in Veterinary Science found that dogs with access to appropriate chewing materials were less likely to exhibit destructive behaviors. It also found that early interventions, such as providing teething toys, help reduce anxiety and promote healthy mental development in puppies. Here is how the right teething toys help teething puppies: 

• Soothing gum pain: These toys provide teething made of soft, chewable materials relief for puppies, by helping relieve the tension in their tender gums 
• Encouraging healthy chewing habits: Providing safe chew toys for puppies can be the first lesson in differentiating desirable behaviors from undesirable ones. When you offer your pup a chew toy, you’re teaching them what’s acceptable to chew on and what’s not. If left to their devices, they may learn to gnaw on household items instead
• Preventing dental issues: Chewing helps scrape away plaque and build stronger jaws, setting the foundation for long-term dental health. Dr. Gary Richter, a renowned veterinarian, explains, “Chewing is a vital activity for oral health. Starting this habit early can prevent dental disease in adulthood.”

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How to Choose the Right Toy for Your Teething Puppy

Before we talk about the best toys for teething puppies, let’s discuss what you must look for in a chew toy. This is important because not all teething toys are created equal and choosing ones that are not made of quality materials or are not the correct shape or size can not only prove ineffective but can also pose a risk to your pet’s health. For instance, if a toy is too brittle and begins to fall apart as your puppy chews on it, there is a risk of choking or indigestion harmful materials like plastic. To avoid these pitfalls, here are a few things you need to keep in mind when choosing a toy for your teething puppy:   

• Choose toys made of safe materials: Safe chew toys for puppies are ones that are made of non-toxic materials like soft rubber, silicone, or nylon. Avoid anything too hard that could damage their baby teeth or toys made of hard plastics or brittle materials that can splinter and hurt your puppy’s gums
• Check for size appropriateness: The toy should be the right size for your puppy—big enough to prevent choking but small enough for them to comfortably chew
• Look for durability: Given that puppies chew relentlessly, you need to look for durable puppy toys that will not only last them a while but also are not too hard for their baby teeth  
• Interactive features can help: Toys with interactive features can be great for keeping your puppy engaged for prolonged durations. Toys with flavors or treat compartments can be a good choice if your puppy keeps preferring your shoes and slippers to the selection of teething toys you’ve bought for them 
• Look for soothing properties: Frozen teething toys for puppies as well as those with textured surfaces can be more effective in providing relief for inflamed gums. They help massage sore gums while keeping your puppy engaged
• Prioritize chewing benefits: Apart from providing relief to aching and tender gums, puppy teething toys also play an important role in promoting dental health by reducing plaque and tartar buildup as your puppy chews. It’s best to choose toys like rope chews or rubber designs with grooves, which are excellent for oral hygiene.

Best Toys for Teething Puppies

As may be clear by now, teething toys aren’t just accessories, they’re essential tools for ensuring that your puppy navigates this challenging stage comfortably and safely. As Dr. Wooten puts it, “Investing in good teething toys is investing in your puppy’s overall well-being. It’s a small effort with lifelong benefits.” Now, it’s important that you choose toys that suit your pet’s needs and prove effective in providing relief. This selection of the best toys for teething puppies might help simplify that choice for you. 

1. KONG Puppy Toy

This classic favorite is one of the most effective and durable puppy toys. Made of soft rubber, it is perfect for soothing sore gums without damaging those tiny teeth. You can fill it with treats or freeze it with some peanut butter in the hollow insides to use it as a fun, long-lasting distraction. The unpredictable bounce makes it great for interactive play!

USPs: Durable, versatile, and designed specifically for teething pups.

2. Nylabone Puppy Chew Ring

Made of soft, puppy-safe material, this chew ring is among the best puppy toys for teething relief because it’s gentle on their gums but tough enough to withstand eager chewers. It’s flavored, making it irresistible for your pup, and designed to promote dental hygiene.

USPs: Combines dental care and gum relief in a fun design.

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3. Benebone Puppy Dental Chew

Shaped like a wishbone and infused with real flavors like bacon or peanut butter, this chew is not only one of the best toys to provide teething relief for puppies but also to keep your little furball entertained for hours. It’s easy for little paws to hold and is made of soft puppy-friendly material, which means it’s gentle on your pup’s growing teeth.

USPs: Flavor-packed and ergonomically designed for easy chewing.

4. Petstages Cool Teething Stick

If you’re looking for frozen teething toys for puppies, your search ends with Petstages Cool Teething Stick. Soak this stick in water and freeze it. Chewing on this frozen toy will give your puppy instant cooling relief for their aching gums. Its unique fabric texture also helps clean their teeth while they chew.

USPs: Affordable, easy to freeze, and soothing for hot, inflamed gums.

5. Outward Hound Puppy Hide-a-Squirrel

This soft plush toy combines the fun of chewing with mental stimulation, making it one of the most innovative puppy teething toys. The mini squirrels are gentle on sensitive gums, and the squeakers inside make playtime exciting. While it’s not meant for heavy chewing, it’s ideal for younger puppies.

USPs: Combines soft chewing relief with mental engagement.

6. Goughnuts Puppy Chew Ring

Looking for durable puppy toys for a power chewer with a formidable jaw? This toy is for you! It’s made from natural rubber and is virtually indestructible while still gentle enough for teething puppies.

USPs: Built to last—even for tough chewers—while protecting those sensitive puppy teeth.

7. Rope Toys for Puppies

Simple but effective, rope toys are among the most bankable and affordable chew toys for teething puppies. They’re great for chewing as well as a good game of tug-of-war, which all dogs love. Look for ones made of soft cotton to ensure they’re rough play doesn’t damage your  pup’s gums or teeth.

USPs: Versatile and perfect for teething and interactive play.

8. Chuckit! Puppy Chew Ball

This lightweight rubber ball is another one of the popular versatile puppy toys. It is soft enough to provide teething relief to puppies yet durable enough for a game of fetch and solo play. Its bright colors and easy-to-grip texture can easily make it your pet’s favorite.

USPs: Ideal for fetch-loving puppies who also need teething relief.

9. ZippyPaws Skinny Peltz No-Stuffing Plush Toys

For puppies who love soft toys but tend to tear them apart, these no-stuffing plush toys are a lifesaver. These safe and effective teething toys for dogs are designed to be gentle on the teeth and gums and have squeakers to keep your furry baby entertained.

USPs: Soft, safe, and mess-free for comfort chewers.

10. Frozen Carrot or DIY Wet Washcloth

Did you know you can fashion the best toys for teething puppies with something as simple as a carrot or a washcloth? Yes, sometimes the simplest solutions are the best. A frozen carrot provides a natural, edible teething option, while a frozen washcloth is an inexpensive way to soothe irritated gums.

USPs: Budget-friendly and easy to make at home.

FAQs

1. What materials are safe for puppy teething toys?

Safe materials for puppy teething toys include rubber, nylon, and durable silicone. These are tough enough to withstand chewing without breaking into harmful pieces. Natural materials like rope or certain untreated wood are also good options if they’re specifically designed for pets. Avoid toys made with small parts, toxic chemicals, or those that can splinter easily. 

2. Can I give my puppy frozen toys?

Yes, you can give your puppy frozen toys, as they are great for soothing sore gums during teething. Freeze durable rubber toys filled with water, broth, or dog-safe treats to provide both comfort and mental stimulation. Ensure the toys are specifically designed for dogs and won’t splinter or crack when frozen. 

Takeaway

There you have it, a well-rounded mix of effective, safe, and affordable chew toys for teething puppies. However, to keep your pup interested in their toys and not veer off into undesirable chewing behaviors, it’s vital to experiment with a variety of toys and see which ones your little one enjoys the most. Offering your pup a mix of textures, flavors, and functions will keep their curiosity piqued while giving their gums the relief they need. Plus, with the right toys, your furniture and shoes stay safe—a win for everyone!