Bringing a new puppy home is an exciting time, filled with joy and the anticipation of a furry companion who will be with you for years to come. As dog owners, we all want to ensure our beloved pets experience each stage of life as comfortably and painlessly as possible. This is particularly true when puppies begin teething, a process that typically starts around three weeks of age and continues as their “baby teeth” are replaced by permanent ones. By the time they reach six to seven months, most puppies will have their full set of adult teeth. During these crucial developmental phases, providing appropriate chew toys becomes paramount, not only for your puppy’s comfort but also for protecting your hands and feet from their enthusiastic chewing!
It’s crucial to understand which toys are safe and beneficial for teething puppies. This guide, drawing on veterinary advice, will help you navigate the options and make informed choices for your furry friend.
Toys to Avoid for Teething Puppies
Veterinary dental professionals generally advise against allowing puppies to chew on anything excessively hard. This category includes toys made from materials like nylon, as well as natural items such as bones and antlers. The general rule of thumb is to avoid any toy that is rigid and does not bend. Furthermore, it’s wise to steer clear of toys that closely resemble household items you don’t want your puppy to chew, such as shoes.
Toys with the following characteristics should also be avoided:
- Long strings and ribbons: These can be easily ingested and cause intestinal blockages.
- Squeakers inside: If a puppy manages to tear open a toy and swallow the squeaker, it can present a choking hazard or cause internal damage.
- Foam stuffing: Similar to squeakers, stuffing can be ingested and lead to digestive issues.
- Sharp angles or corners: These can potentially harm a puppy’s mouth or gums.
Additionally, always ensure that any toy is larger than your puppy’s mouth to minimize the risk of choking or accidental ingestion.
Safe and Recommended Chew Toys for Teething Puppies
While no toy can be declared 100% safe, as dogs can chew on almost anything, your veterinarian can offer recommendations tailored to your puppy’s specific breed and size. Regardless of the toy chosen, it is essential to supervise your puppy during playtime and regularly inspect the toy’s condition. Discard any toys that show significant wear and tear, as these can become hazardous.
Chewing is a natural and necessary behavior for puppies. It helps soothe their aching gums and teaches them what is and isn’t appropriate to chew on.
Durable Rope Toys
Opt for high-quality rope toys, as cheaper alternatives can break easily, leading to the ingestion of dangerous fibers. The quality of all pet products should be a primary consideration, as superior products are not only safer but also more durable.
Flexible Rubber Toys
Durable rubber toys are a popular choice for teething puppies. The ideal consistency is firm yet flexible. A simple test for this is the “fingernail test”: if you can leave an indentation in the toy with your fingernail, it likely has the right balance of hardness and flexibility.
Frozen Chew Toys and Teething Treats
Toys designed to be frozen can provide excellent relief for sore gums and reduce swelling. You can also find food-safe toys that can be stuffed with treats and then frozen. Specialized teething treats for puppies are also available. For a budget-friendly option, consider tying a wet washcloth into a knot and freezing it, or offering ice cubes (though consult your vet before giving ice cubes, as some professionals have reservations).
Some highly recommended toys for teething puppies include:
- KONG Puppy Toy: Often voted best overall for its durability and treat-dispensing capabilities.
- Nylabone Puppy Chew: Frequently recognized as the most affordable option.
- Apasiri Chew for Aggressive Chewers: Praised for its durability, suitable for powerful chewers.
- Nylabone Puppy Starter Kit: A great value pack offering a variety of chewing options.
- Benebone Wishbone: A favorite for its appealing flavors that dogs love.
- CHIWAVA Standing Stick Animal Chews: Noted for its cute and engaging design.
- Benebone Zaggler: Excellent for interactive play and encouraging chewing.
- Nylabone Chill & Chew Puppy: Specifically designed to be soothing for teething gums and teeth.
- Petstages Mini Bone Tug: A versatile toy that can be used for tugging and chewing.
- ZHEBU Dog Chew: Often highlighted for its effectiveness in cleaning a dog’s teeth.
- Nylabone Wishbone Chew: Designed to be easy for puppies to chew and manage.
Other Essential Recommendations for Teething Puppies
Introducing your puppy to the practice of teeth brushing early on is highly beneficial. Beyond promoting good dental hygiene, which is crucial for preventing common canine ailments, it also accustoms your puppy to having its mouth handled. This can make it easier to retrieve objects if they accidentally swallow something, without the risk of a bite. Your veterinarian can advise on appropriate brushes and toothpastes (never use human products!) and demonstrate the correct brushing technique. Remember to approach this routine gradually, allowing your puppy to explore the tools with curiosity before attempting to brush.
Will My Dog Ever Stop Chewing?
The short answer is no, not entirely. Chewing, biting, and licking are normal behaviors that dogs use to explore their environment, learn, and cope with stress. While the intensity of these behaviors may decrease around 18 months of age, they rarely disappear completely. If your dog’s chewing habits remain excessive or aggressive, seeking professional advice from your veterinarian or a certified animal behaviorist is recommended. Excessive chewing can sometimes be a sign of underlying anxiety or boredom, and addressing the root cause is key.
Expert Advice from Your Veterinarian
Finding the right teething toys for your puppy is a crucial part of their development. While no toy is completely risk-free, by considering your dog’s breed, size, and chewing habits, and by consulting with your veterinarian, you can identify suitable options that will provide comfort and encourage appropriate play behaviors. Remember, your active supervision is paramount in ensuring your puppy’s safety. Always discard worn-out toys to prevent your dog from ingesting small pieces, which can lead to serious health issues and costly veterinary care.
If you have any further questions about the best teething toys for your puppy or need personalized recommendations, don’t hesitate to ask during your next veterinary visit. To schedule an appointment, please call our animal hospital at (732) 671-3110. Your veterinarian is your best resource for ensuring your puppy grows into a happy, healthy adult dog.
