Best Puppy Chew Toys for Teething: Soothing Solutions for Your Growing Pup

Teething is a natural but uncomfortable phase for puppies, typically occurring between 3 to 6 months of age. During this time, puppies chew to relieve gum pain as their adult teeth emerge. Choosing the best puppy chew toys for teething can save your furniture, shoes, and hands while keeping your furry friend happy and healthy.

In this guide, we’ll explore the top-rated teething toys, answer common FAQs, and provide tips to help your puppy through this challenging stage.

Top 5 Types of Puppy Teething Toys

1. Rubber Chew Toys (Best for Durability & Gum Massage)

• KONG Puppy Toy – Made of soft, chewable rubber; can be stuffed with treats for added engagement
• Nylabone Puppy Chew – Gentle on baby teeth with puppy-safe flavors to encourage chewing

2. Freezable Toys (Best for Pain Relief)

• Petstages Cool Teething Stick – Can be chilled to numb sore gums
• KONG Puppy Teething Stick – Freezer-safe rubber provides cooling relief

3. Rope & Fabric Toys (Best for Gentle Chewers)

• Petstages Dogwood Stick – Safe wood-like texture for light chewers
• Cotton Rope Toys – Helps clean teeth while satisfying chewing urges

4. Edible Chews (Best for Long-Lasting Distraction)

• Whimzees Puppy Dental Chews – Natural, digestible options for teething pups
• Bully Sticks – High-protein chews (supervise to prevent choking)

5. Interactive Toys (Best for Mental Stimulation)

• West Paw Zogoflex Tux – Durable yet gentle; can be stuffed with treats
• Outward Hound Hide-A-Squirrel – Combines chewing with puzzle play

Puppy Teething FAQs

Q: How do I know if my puppy is teething?

A: Look for excessive chewing, drooling, red/swollen gums, irritability, and tiny teeth around your home.

Q: What makes a chew toy safe for teething puppies?

A: Safe toys should be:

• Soft enough not to damage baby teeth
• Free of small, swallowable parts
• Made of non-toxic materials
• Appropriately sized for your puppy’s breed

Q: How can I soothe my puppy’s teething pain?

A: Try:

• Chilled (not frozen) rubber toys
• Frozen washcloths
• Puppy-safe teething gels (consult your vet)
• Frozen carrot sticks (great natural option)

Q: When will my puppy stop teething?

A: Most puppies finish teething by 6-7 months, but chewing behavior may continue into adulthood.

Q: Are antlers or bones safe for teething puppies?

A: No – these are too hard and can crack baby teeth. Stick with softer rubber or fabric options.

Q: My puppy isn’t interested in chew toys – what should I do?

A: Try:

• Rubbing a small amount of peanut butter on toys
• Testing different textures (rubber vs. fabric)
• Playing with the toy yourself to spark interest
• Offering edible chews as an alternative

Q: How often should I replace my puppy’s chew toys?

A: Inspect weekly and replace when:

• Pieces start breaking off
• The toy becomes significantly worn down
• You notice sharp edges developing

Conclusion

Surviving the puppy teething phase requires patience and the right chew toys. The best options:
✔ Rubber toys like KONG for durability
✔ Freezable toys for pain relief
✔ Edible chews for long-lasting distraction
✔ Interactive toys for mental stimulation

Remember to:

• Always supervise chewing sessions
• Rotate toys to maintain interest
• Avoid hard materials that could damage teeth
• Consult your vet if you notice excessive discomfort

With these top-rated puppy teething toys, you’ll help your furry friend through this developmental stage while protecting your belongings.