Puppies explore the world with their mouths, and chewing is a natural and essential behavior. But with so many options available, it’s crucial to know What Is Good For Puppies To Chew On to ensure their safety and well-being. Choosing the right chew toys and items can alleviate teething discomfort, prevent destructive chewing, and promote healthy jaw development. This guide will explore safe and beneficial chewing options for your furry friend.
Why Do Puppies Need to Chew?
Chewing serves multiple purposes for puppies. First, it’s a way for them to explore their surroundings, similar to how human babies put things in their mouths. Secondly, chewing helps to relieve the pain and discomfort of teething. Lastly, it’s a natural behavior that helps keep them mentally stimulated and reduces boredom. Understanding these needs is key to providing them with appropriate and safe chew options. Without a good outlet, puppies might turn to inappropriate objects like furniture, shoes, or electrical cords.
What Happens During Teething?
Teething can be a particularly challenging time for puppies and their owners. They’ll experience discomfort as their baby teeth fall out and adult teeth come in. This process often leads to increased chewing activity as they seek relief. You’ll see your puppy frantically looking for things to gnaw on to soothe their sore gums. This behavior is completely normal, but requires careful management to ensure they don’t harm themselves. Understanding the stages of teething will allow you to better select safe chew options. For further information on this, you might find what is good for teething puppies to chew on very helpful.
Safe Chew Options for Puppies
Knowing the right things to provide for your puppy to chew on is crucial. It’s not just about giving them something; it’s about giving them safe options. Here are some of the best choices for your young pup:
- Rubber Chew Toys: These are durable, long-lasting, and come in various shapes and sizes. Look for toys made from high-quality, non-toxic rubber. Many of these toys also allow you to fill them with treats or peanut butter to make them even more engaging.
- Nylon Chew Toys: Made from sturdy nylon, these toys are another excellent option for powerful chewers. They are often designed with different textures to satisfy various chewing preferences. However, it’s essential to monitor the toy’s condition and discard it when it begins to break apart, as small pieces could be ingested.
- Rope Toys: These toys are great for both chewing and playing fetch. They can also help with dental hygiene as the fibers gently massage gums and clean teeth. Make sure that the rope toy is made from safe materials and is durable enough to prevent pieces from being pulled off and swallowed.
- Soft Plush Toys: These can provide comfort and satisfaction for puppies, especially for those who enjoy cuddling and carrying things around. However, they should be used under supervision to prevent the puppy from tearing them apart and ingesting the stuffing.
- Puppy-Specific Edible Chews: There are many commercially available chews designed specifically for puppies. These are usually softer than chews for adult dogs and are easier for puppies to digest. They often come in different flavors, making them a tasty and appealing option.
What About Bones?
The question of bones often comes up when discussing chew options. While some people believe that bones are a natural choice, they can be dangerous for puppies. Cooked bones splinter easily and can cause internal injuries. Raw bones also pose a risk due to potential bacterial contamination and the possibility of causing choking. If you’re considering bones for your puppy, do extensive research, and consult with your veterinarian first. For more information on this, you can review is it good for puppies to chew on bones.
Dr. Emily Carter, a leading veterinarian specializing in puppy care, notes, “Choosing safe chew toys is essential for preventing potential hazards and ensuring the healthy development of your puppy’s jaw. Focus on non-toxic materials and toys designed specifically for puppies.”
Things to Avoid
Knowing what is good for puppies to chew on also means knowing what they should absolutely avoid. Here are some things you should never give your puppy to chew on:
- Cooked Bones: As mentioned earlier, cooked bones splinter easily and can cause severe internal injuries or choking.
- Small Toys or Objects: Any toy or object that your puppy could potentially swallow is a serious choking hazard. This includes small parts that can be torn off larger toys.
- Household Items: Avoid giving your puppy old shoes, socks, or other household items to chew on. This can confuse them about what is okay and not okay to chew, leading to destructive behavior.
- Plastic Toys: Some hard plastic toys can easily break into sharp fragments that can cause harm if swallowed.
- Rawhides: While rawhides are popular chews for dogs, they can be problematic for puppies. They can be difficult for puppies to digest and can pose a choking hazard. If you do choose to give them rawhide, only provide it under close supervision.
- Anything Toxic: Ensure that your puppy has no access to anything that may contain toxic chemicals, like cleaning supplies.
How to Introduce New Chew Toys
Introducing new chew toys to your puppy should be a gradual process. Start by presenting one or two new toys at a time. Observe their reaction and see which ones they seem to prefer. Rotate toys regularly to keep them interested and to prevent boredom. Always supervise your puppy when they are playing with a new toy to ensure they are not breaking it down and swallowing pieces.
“It’s about variety and safety,” emphasizes Dr. Robert Miller, a renowned canine behaviorist. “Keep an eye on the condition of chew toys and replace them when they show signs of wear to ensure they stay safe for your puppy. This proactive approach will help with their chewing needs while protecting them.”
Addressing Specific Chewing Behaviors
Sometimes, despite our best efforts, puppies will still chew on things they shouldn’t. If you find your puppy chewing on inappropriate items, don’t punish them. Instead, calmly redirect their attention to an appropriate chew toy. Keep a variety of toys handy and readily accessible to redirect unwanted chewing.
What If My Puppy Is Still Chewing Inappropriately?
If your puppy continues to chew on items they shouldn’t despite your efforts to provide them with suitable options, it might be a sign of boredom, anxiety, or lack of mental stimulation. Consider these steps:
- Increase Exercise: Make sure your puppy is getting enough physical activity. A tired puppy is less likely to chew destructively.
- Mental Stimulation: Engage your puppy in puzzle toys or training sessions. This can help to keep their mind active and reduce boredom-related chewing.
- Create a Safe Space: Ensure your puppy has a designated “safe space,” such as a crate or pen, where they can feel secure and can relax.
- Puppy Proofing: Make sure to puppy-proof your home and remove anything that could be dangerous or irresistible for your puppy to chew on.
- Seek Professional Advice: If the behavior persists, consult with a professional dog trainer or behaviorist. They can help to identify underlying causes and develop strategies to manage the problem.
For specific recommendations on what type of chew toy might best suit your pup, you can read about what is a good chew for puppies. You might also find information on specific chew bone options in the article about what is a good chew bone for puppies.
Conclusion
Providing appropriate chew options is vital for the health, happiness, and safety of your puppy. Knowing what is good for puppies to chew on will not only satisfy their natural instincts but also prevent destructive behaviors and potential hazards. By choosing the right toys, being consistent with redirection, and providing plenty of exercise and mental stimulation, you can ensure your puppy has a safe and enjoyable chewing experience. Remember that each puppy is different, so finding what works best might require some experimentation.
FAQ
- Why is my puppy chewing everything?
Puppies chew for several reasons, including exploration, relieving teething discomfort, and fighting boredom. It’s a natural behavior but requires proper management. - How do I know if a chew toy is safe?
Choose toys made from high-quality, non-toxic materials. Avoid anything that can break into small pieces or pose a choking hazard. Always supervise your puppy when they are chewing. - Can I give my puppy bones to chew on?
Cooked bones are dangerous and should be avoided. Raw bones can pose risks too, so you should consult with your veterinarian before offering them. - What should I do if my puppy chews on something dangerous?
Contact your vet immediately if your puppy has ingested something harmful. Keep a close eye on your puppy to prevent them from getting access to dangerous items. - How often should I replace my puppy’s chew toys?
Inspect your puppy’s chew toys regularly. Replace them if they start to fall apart or become small enough to swallow. - Can I stop my puppy from chewing completely?
Chewing is a natural behavior and cannot be stopped completely. Focus on redirecting them to appropriate chew items, and ensuring they get enough exercise and mental stimulation. - What are some signs my puppy is teething?
Signs of teething include increased chewing, swollen gums, drooling, and sometimes a slight decrease in appetite. Providing appropriate chew toys can help ease their discomfort.
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