Toys to Avoid:

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Most veterinary dentists recommend preventing puppies from chewing “anything hard.” That can include objects made of nylon, bones, and antlers. Avoid anything that won’t bend.

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It is also recommended that you avoid giving your dog toys that resemble items around your house (like shoes) that you do not want them to chew on.

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Toys that your puppy probably shouldn’t chew on include those that have:

• Long strings and ribbons

• Squeakers inside

• Foam stuffing

• Sharp angles or corners

(You should also avoid toys that are smaller than your dog’s mouth. You don’t want to run an even higher risk of your puppy swallowing and choking on it!)

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Safe Toys

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Although no toy can be considered 100% safe because dogs willingly choose to chew on almost anything and everything, your vet can recommend appropriate toys for your dog’s breed and size. No matter what those toys are, however, it is important that you monitor your dog while it is playing with it and make sure to stay up to date with the state the toy is in. Discard any toys that look like your puppy has thoroughly enjoyed (i.e., look past their “prime”) playing with already.

Having said all of that, chewing toys are obviously important for puppies. They sooth their aching gums and teach them what is and what is not appropriate for them to play with.

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Food Puzzles

​A great way to keep dogs engaged, challenge them cognitively, and slow their eating down. These are inexpensive and a great investment. I switch them out often.

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Rope them out Toys

Before offering these toys to your dog, make sure they are made with high-quality rope. Cheaply made products break easier, and your dog may be able to pull off and digest the fibers.

(The standard of quality should really be considered for all toys. Top-quality products are safer for your pet and will last longer [more bang for your buck!]).

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Durable Rubber

This is the most popular toy for a teething dog, but you want to ensure that it is just the right consistency—hard but not too hard.

A simple test to determine this is called the “fingernail test.” Simply put, a toy passes this test if you can leave an indent in it with your fingernail.

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Frozen Chew Toys and Teething Treats

Some toys are designed to be frozen, and they can help relieve your dog’s gum pain and reduce gum swelling. You can also find food-friendly toys that can be stuffed with treats and then frozen.

There are other special treats that are specifically crafted for teething puppies.

(If you’re on a budget, you may consider tying a wet washcloth in a knot and then leaving it in the freezer or substituting ice cubes*).

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Other Recommendations for Teething Puppies

Get your puppy used to having something in its mouth other than a toy or food. This can be accomplished by brushing your dog’s teeth. Not only is this a healthy and helpful practice in terms of hygiene (dental problems are among the most common ailments for dogs), but it also aids you in retrieving objects from your dog’s mouth without the risk of a nasty bite to the hand. Ask your vet for suggestions on appropriate brushes and toothpaste (do not use products made for humans!) and request a demonstration of the proper technique for brushing your dog’s teeth.

Also, it’s important not to force your dog to become comfortable with this routine. Allow them to be curious and playful at first—let them familiarize themselves with the objects before you shove them into their mouths.

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