Puppies are adorable and lively creatures that bring joy and excitement to any home. However, they can also be a handful, especially during their teething phase. Teething can cause discomfort and pain in puppies, leading to destructive behavior and inappropriate chewing. Providing chew toys for puppies can help alleviate their discomfort and keep them from chewing on inappropriate items. In this blog, we’ll discuss the best chew toys for puppies while teething.
Why do Puppies Need Chew Toys?
Puppies go through a teething phase between the ages of 3 and 6 months when their baby teeth fall out, and their adult teeth start coming in. During this time, their gums become sore and itchy, and they feel the need to chew on something to relieve the discomfort. Chewing also helps to strengthen their jaw muscles and clean their teeth, promoting good oral health. Providing puppies with chew toys helps to redirect their chewing behavior away from inappropriate items, such as furniture and shoes.
Factors to Consider when Choosing Chew Toys for Puppies
Before buying chew toys for your puppy, there are a few factors to consider. Firstly, choose to chew toys made from non-toxic materials, as puppies are known to swallow small pieces of toys. Secondly, consider the size of the toy. Choose toys that are appropriate for your puppy’s age and size, as toys that are too small can be a choking hazard, and toys that are too big can be difficult for puppies to hold and chew. Lastly, consider the texture of the toy. Puppies have different chewing preferences, and some may prefer soft toys, while others may prefer harder toys.
Best Chew Toys for Puppies
Rubber Chew Toys
Rubber chew toys are a great option for teething puppies. They are durable and can withstand a lot of chewing. Rubber chew toys come in a variety of shapes and sizes, making them perfect for different breeds and sizes of puppies. Some rubber chew toys also have ridges and bumps, which can help soothe your puppy’s sore gums.
Rope Toys
Rope toys are another popular chew toy for puppies. They are made of durable, woven material that can withstand a lot of chewing. Rope toys are also great for playing tug-of-war with your puppy, which can help them expend energy and reduce destructive behavior. However, it’s important to supervise your puppy while they play with rope toys to prevent them from accidentally swallowing any loose strands.
KONG Toys
KONG toys are a popular choice for both puppies and adult dogs. They are made of durable, chew-resistant rubber and can be filled with treats or peanut butter to provide extra stimulation for your puppy. KONG toys also come in a variety of sizes, making them perfect for different breeds and sizes of puppies.
Dental Chew Toys
Dental chew toys are designed to clean your puppy’s teeth while they chew. They are made of durable, rubber material with ridges and bumps that help clean teeth and massage gums. Dental chew toys can also help prevent bad breath and reduce the risk of gum disease.
Nylabone Toys
Nylabone toys are a great option for teething puppies. They are made of durable, nylon material that can withstand a lot of chewing. Nylabone toys also come in a variety of flavors, which can help entice your puppy to chew on them.
Benebone Real Flavor Dental Chew
The Benebone Real Flavor Dental Chew is a flavored chew toy made from nylon and infused with real flavors such as bacon and chicken. This toy is designed to clean teeth and promote good oral health while satisfying a puppy’s urge to chew.
Soft Chew Toys
Soft chew toys are a great option for puppies with sensitive teeth or gums. They are made of soft, plush material that is gentle on your puppy’s mouth. Soft chew toys also come in a variety of shapes and sizes, making them perfect for different breeds and sizes of puppies.
Frozen Chew Toys
Frozen chew toys are a great option for teething puppies. They can help soothe sore gums and provide relief from pain and discomfort. Simply wet a washcloth, twist it into a rope shape, and freeze it for a few hours. Once frozen, the washcloth will provide a cool and soothing surface for your puppy to chew on.
Hard Rubber Chew Toys
Hard rubber chew toys are another great option for teething puppies. They are made of durable, chew-resistant rubber and can provide a satisfying chewing experience for your puppy. Hard rubber chew toys also come in a variety of shapes and sizes, making them perfect for different breeds and sizes of puppies.
Rawhide Chew Toys
Rawhide chew toys are a popular choice for many dog owners. They are made of dried animal skin and can provide a satisfying chewing experience for your puppy. However, it’s important to supervise your puppy while they chew on rawhide toys to prevent them from accidentally swallowing any large pieces.
Conclusion
Chew toys are an essential item for puppies who are teething. It helps them to relieve their discomfort and provides a healthy outlet for their chewing needs. However, not all chew toys are created equal, and it’s essential to choose the right one for your puppy. The best chew toys for puppies while teething should be made of safe and durable materials, easy to clean, and should fit your puppy’s age, size, and chewing behavior. By selecting the right chew toy, you can keep your puppy entertained and happy, while also protecting your furniture, shoes, and other household items. Always supervise your puppy while playing with a chew toy and replace it when it becomes too worn or damaged. With the right chew toy, you can ensure that your puppy’s teething phase is a positive experience for both you and your furry friend.