As a responsible puppy owner, it's your duty to provide your puppy with the necessary tools to get through the teething stage. Our suggested, top-rated teething toys are the perfect solution for your puppy (and your peace of mind). Simply choose the best option for your puppy's unique needs, and watch as they enjoy the benefits of a happy, comfortable teething experience
Puppies start teething at around 3-4 months old, and the process can last until they are about 6 months old. During this time, your puppy will be in a lot of pain and will be looking for ways to soothe his or her gums. That's a long time to be in pain and discomfort. And while chewing is a healthy and sometimes necessary part of growing up for most pups, you probably don’t want them chewing up expensive furniture or your favorite shoes. That means you’ll need some chew toys! But what toys should you look for to make these months as easy as possible?
First, the toy should be soft enough that it won't damage your pup's gums, but it should also be sturdy enough to withstand vigorous chewing, and large enough that your pup can not fit the toy completely in their mouth. Second, the toy should be interesting and engaging for your puppy, so he or she doesn't get bored of it quickly. Lastly, the toy should be easy for you to clean (because nobody likes chewing on a gunky mess)!
Some great options for teething chew toys include:
1 - A rubber Kong toy: Kong toys are great because they are soft and bouncy, but also very durable. You can stuff them with peanut butter or other treats to keep your pup’s interest.
2 - Nylabone Dura Chew: This is a great option for aggressive chewers. It is made of semi-hard nylon, so it usually stands up well to vigorous chewing. We commonly recommend these toys as some of the toughest, longest-lasting, most durable chew toys in our store. Many Nylabones incorporate interesting textures and even flavors to keep your pup engaged.
3 - Nylabone Puppy Teething Ring: This option is specifically for teething puppies. It is made of softer (yet still plenty durable) material than larger Nylabones. This makes the toy gentler on your pup. You can also freeze these toys to create a gum-soothing chew session.
4 - Goughnuts Maxx 50 Stick: Made to last in the USA, this rubber stick toy is perfect for medium to large-breed puppies. It is soft enough to be gentle on gums, but also durable enough to withstand lots of chewing. Plus, it’s likely durable enough to last into your pup's adulthood.
6 - Mammoth Flossy Chews Cotton Blend Rope Tug: This rope toy is perfect for teething puppies. It is made of soft cotton, so it won't damage gums, but it is also sturdy enough to withstand lots of chewing.
What type of toys should you avoid?
While every dog is different and you should always cater the toys you purchase to your pup's individual needs, there are some types of toys that generally might not be appropriate for a teething puppy. These types of toys have an increased potential to hurt your puppy and even break their teeth.
Hard toys - If your puppy is teething, their enamel is still soft and fragile to handle vigorous chewing on a hard-shell toy. This includes things like hard plastic and even wood in some cases.
Sharp toys - While adult dogs often enjoy edges, ridges, and spikes to chomp down on, sharp edges or harsh corners on a toy can damage your puppy's gums. This is especially true if the toy is made from a hard material.
Toys with small parts - You should be careful when giving any dog a toy with small parts. However, small parts that can be easily broken off, swallowed, or choked on are especially dangerous for teething puppies.
Wrapping Up
Congratulations on your new puppy! Providing your puppy with the right chew toys during the teething stage is an important part of being a responsible pet owner. By choosing toys that are soft, sturdy, interesting, and easy to clean, you can help your puppy through this difficult and painful process while also protecting your belongings. By following the recommendations and tips provided, you can give your puppy the best chance at a happy, comfortable teething experience. Enjoy your new furry friend!