Best Chew Toys for Teething Puppies: Soothe and Entertain

Discover the best chew toys for teething puppies—soothe discomfort, encourage healthy chewing, and keep your playful pup happily entertained.

Teething is one of the most challenging and delicate phases in a puppy’s life. Much like human babies, puppies experience sore gums, discomfort, and an irresistible urge to chew as their new teeth come in. For many pet owners, this period also marks the beginning of chewed shoes, furniture, and other valuables. Fortunately, choosing the right chew toys can provide much-needed relief for puppies while also promoting healthy habits and protecting your belongings.

In this in-depth guide, we explore the best chew toys for teething puppies, backed by practical insights, detailed features, and real-life experiences. Whether you’re a first-time puppy parent or a seasoned dog lover, this article will help you navigate the teething journey with less stress and more tail wags.

Why Chew Toys Matter During Teething

Chew toys aren’t just for play. They serve vital roles in a puppy’s early development:

• Pain Relief: Chewing helps massage inflamed gums and alleviate the discomfort caused by erupting teeth.
• Healthy Dental Habits: The right textures stimulate saliva production and help reduce plaque and tartar buildup.
• Behavioral Redirection: Puppies will chew on something—chew toys help steer them away from dangerous or destructive items.
• Emotional Comfort: Chewing provides calming stimulation and helps manage anxiety, especially when a puppy is alone.

When I brought home my Labrador puppy, Luna, the first week was chaos. She gnawed on chair legs and even tried chewing on a phone charger. Once we introduced the right chew toys, the situation drastically improved. Luna had something safe to satisfy her chewing instinct, and we had fewer casualties around the house.

Top 5 Chew Toys for Teething Puppies

Below are five tried-and-true chew toys that combine durability, safety, and entertainment.

1. KONG Puppy Toy

A favorite among vets and dog trainers, the KONG Puppy Toy is crafted from gentle rubber specifically for teething dogs.

Features:

• Soft yet durable rubber
• Hollow center for treats or peanut butter
• Unpredictable bounce for added fun

Benefits:

• Soothes sore gums
• Keeps puppies engaged with treat stuffing
• Can double as a fetch toy

Fill it with plain yogurt and freeze it overnight—your pup will stay busy and cool at the same time.

2. Nylabone Puppy Teething Rings

Perfect for persistent chewers, these teething rings are designed with dental health in mind.

Features:

• Textured surface to clean teeth and massage gums
• Durable nylon build
• Available in puppy-safe flavors

Benefits:

• Long-lasting even for aggressive chewers
• Encourages healthy chewing patterns
• Helps reduce destructive tendencies

A friend of mine used this toy with her Golden Retriever pup, Max. He went from chewing his crate bedding to peacefully gnawing on these rings every night.

3. Benebone Puppy Dental Chew

Benebone creates ergonomically designed chews infused with real flavor. The puppy version is gentler but just as satisfying.

Features:

• Infused with real bacon, peanut butter, or chicken
• Unique shape for gripping
• Textured ridges for gum stimulation

Benefits:

• Highly palatable
• Easy to hold and chew
• Helps promote dental hygiene

Pro Tip: This toy is better suited for supervised chewing due to its hard texture.

4. Petstages Cool Teething Stick

If your puppy needs extra relief, especially during hot months, this freezable toy is a lifesaver.

Features:

• Can be soaked in water and frozen
• Crunchy feel that appeals to puppies
• Fabric exterior with internal stuffing

Benefits:

• Cold sensation helps numb gum pain
• Satisfies urge to bite
• Lightweight and easy to carry

When my cousin’s Beagle, Olive, was teething, she refused rubber toys. But this cooling stick became her go-to comfort item, especially in the summer.

5. Outward Hound Invincibles Plush Toy

For pups who crave softness but are known toy destroyers, this plush is made to survive rough play.

Features:

• Durable, reinforced stitching
• Squeakers that keep working even when punctured
• Soft texture that’s gentle on gums

Benefits:

• Combines comfort with entertainment
• Encourages interactive play
• Built to last longer than standard plush toys

This toy worked wonders for my sister’s miniature Schnauzer, who usually tore through toys in minutes. It kept him busy without the mess.

Safety Guidelines When Choosing Chew Toys

Not all chew toys are created equal. Consider the following tips to ensure safety:

1. Non-Toxic Materials: Always check for BPA-free plastics and food-grade rubber.
2. Avoid Small Parts: Steer clear of toys with buttons, bells, or loose parts.
3. Monitor Wear and Tear: Regularly inspect toys for cracks or sharp edges.
4. Right Size: Choose a toy appropriate for your puppy’s breed and size.
5. Supervise Playtime: Especially with new toys, always keep an eye on your pup.

According to the American Kennel Club, choosing age-appropriate and size-appropriate toys significantly lowers the risk of accidental choking or ingestion.

Bonus Tips to Soothe Teething Puppies

In addition to chew toys, here are some extra strategies to help your puppy through teething:

• Frozen Treats: Freeze carrots or apple slices (without seeds) as a healthy snack.
• Cold Washcloth: Wet and freeze a small towel for them to gnaw on.
• Gentle Massage: Lightly rub your puppy’s gums with a clean finger.
• Routine: Keep your puppy on a consistent schedule to avoid stress-related chewing.

Navigating the Teething Phase with Confidence

Teething doesn’t have to be a nightmare for you or your pup. By understanding your puppy’s needs and providing the right chew toys, you can make this phase more comfortable and less destructive. From the durable KONG to the cooling relief of Petstages, there’s something out there to match every puppy’s preferences.

Investing in the right toys isn’t just about protecting your furniture—it’s about supporting your puppy’s development, health, and happiness.

💬 We want to hear from you! Has your puppy found a favorite chew toy? Do you have teething tips that worked wonders? Share your experiences in the comments below and help fellow pet parents get through this chewy chapter!

For more information on accessories and toys for your pet, check out our accessories and toys category.

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