Having a teething puppy can be a challenging time for both the puppy and the owner. As their adult teeth start to come in, puppies experience discomfort and often look for relief by chewing on anything they can find. This can lead to damage to furniture, shoes, and other household items. To prevent this, it’s essential to provide your teething puppy with appropriate toys that will soothe their gums and keep them entertained. In this article, we will explore the best dog toys for teething puppies.
Why Do Puppies Chew During Teething?
Teething is a natural process for puppies, just as it is for human babies. As their adult teeth start to come in, puppies experience discomfort and sometimes even pain. Chewing helps to alleviate this discomfort by providing pressure on the gums and helping the teeth to break through the surface. It also helps to keep their teeth clean and healthy.
What to Look for in Teething Toys
When choosing teething toys for your puppy, there are a few important factors to consider. Firstly, you want to make sure that the toy is made from safe, non-toxic materials. Puppies are prone to chewing and ingesting small parts, so it’s crucial to choose toys that won’t pose a choking hazard. Additionally, you want to look for toys that are durable and able to withstand the sharp teeth of a teething puppy. Finally, it’s a good idea to choose toys that can provide some mental stimulation and entertainment for your puppy.
1. Kong Puppy
The Kong Puppy is a classic choice for teething puppies. Made from durable rubber, it can withstand even the most aggressive chewers. The unique shape of the toy provides a challenge for the puppy, as they have to figure out how to get the treats out from inside. This provides mental stimulation and keeps them entertained for hours.
2. Nylabone Puppy Chew
The Nylabone Puppy Chew is another popular choice for teething puppies. Made from tough nylon, it is designed to withstand the sharp teeth of a puppy. The textured surface helps to clean their teeth and soothe their gums. It comes in various sizes and flavors, making it a versatile option for different puppies.
3. Benebone Puppy Chew Toy
The Benebone Puppy Chew Toy is a great option for puppies who love to chew. Made from durable nylon, it can withstand the toughest chewers. The unique shape and flavor of the toy make it even more enticing for the puppy. It also helps to clean their teeth and massage their gums.
4. Outward Hound Hide-A-Squirrel
The Outward Hound Hide-A-Squirrel is a fun and interactive toy for teething puppies. It consists of a plush tree trunk and several squeaky squirrels that can be stuffed inside. The puppy has to figure out how to remove the squirrels from the trunk, providing mental stimulation and entertainment. It’s a great way to keep your puppy occupied and distracted from chewing on other things.
5. Chuckit! Ultra Ball
The Chuckit! Ultra Ball is a durable and bouncy toy that is perfect for teething puppies. Made from natural rubber, it can withstand the sharp teeth of a puppy. The bright color makes it easy to spot and the bounciness adds an element of fun to playtime. It’s a great toy for outdoor play and can be used for fetch.
6. JW Pet Hol-ee Roller
The JW Pet Hol-ee Roller is a versatile toy that can be used for teething puppies. Made from durable rubber, it can withstand the chewing of a puppy. The unique design allows you to stuff treats inside, providing mental stimulation and reward for your puppy. It can also be used for interactive play and can be thrown and chased.
7. ZippyPaws Burrow Squeaky Hide and Seek Plush Toy
The ZippyPaws Burrow Squeaky Hide and Seek Plush Toy is a cute and interactive toy for teething puppies. It consists of a plush tree trunk and several squeaky animals that can be stuffed inside. The puppy has to figure out how to remove the animals from the trunk, providing mental stimulation and entertainment. It’s a great way to keep your puppy engaged and distracted from chewing on other things.
8. Petstages Cool Teething Stick
The Petstages Cool Teething Stick is designed specifically for teething puppies. It is made from a soft and flexible material that soothes the puppy’s gums. The stick can be frozen to provide extra relief for the puppy’s sore gums. It also has a crunchy texture that helps to clean their teeth. This toy is a great choice for puppies who are experiencing discomfort from teething.
9. KONG Cozie Marvin the Moose
The KONG Cozie Marvin the Moose is a soft and cuddly toy that is perfect for teething puppies. Made from plush material, it is gentle on their gums and provides comfort during teething. The toy also contains a squeaker, adding an element of fun and excitement for your puppy. It’s a great toy for both playtime and nap time.
10. Tuffy’s Mega Ring
The Tuffy’s Mega Ring is a durable and tough toy that is ideal for teething puppies. Made from multiple layers of durable material, it can withstand even the most aggressive chewers. The ring shape makes it easy for the puppy to hold and chew on. It’s a great toy for interactive play and can be used for tug-of-war.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. How do I know if my puppy is teething?
Some signs that your puppy is teething include increased chewing on objects, swollen or red gums, drooling, and irritability. You may also notice that your puppy is not eating as much or is reluctant to chew on their regular toys.
2. When do puppies start teething?
Puppies usually start teething at around 3 to 4 months of age. The process can last for several months as their adult teeth come in and replace their puppy teeth.
3. Can I give my puppy ice cubes to chew on?
Ice cubes can provide temporary relief for teething puppies. However, it’s important to monitor your puppy while they are chewing on ice cubes to prevent choking or dental damage.
4. How often should I replace my puppy’s teething toys?
Teething toys should be replaced if they become damaged or worn out. It’s a good idea to regularly inspect your puppy’s toys for any signs of wear and tear.
5. Are there any toys I should avoid giving to my teething puppy?
Avoid giving your teething puppy toys that are too hard or have small parts that can be easily chewed off and swallowed. Also, be cautious with toys that are made from toxic materials or have been treated with chemicals.
6. Can I use a frozen washcloth as a teething toy for my puppy?
A frozen washcloth can be a great homemade teething toy for your puppy. Simply wet a washcloth, twist it, and place it in the freezer for a few hours. The cold and texture of the washcloth can provide relief for your puppy’s teething gums.
7. How can I prevent my puppy from chewing on furniture?
To prevent your puppy from chewing on furniture, make sure to provide them with plenty of appropriate teething toys. You can also use deterrent sprays or cover furniture legs with bitter-tasting substances to discourage chewing.
8. Can I give my puppy bones to chew on during teething?
It’s not recommended to give your puppy bones to chew on during teething. Bones can splinter and cause choking or dental issues. It’s safer to stick to specially designed teething toys that are made for puppies.
9. How can I make teething toys more enticing for my puppy?
You can make teething toys more enticing for your puppy by stuffing them with treats or freezing them. The added challenge and the different textures can make the toys more appealing to your teething puppy.
10. Should I supervise my puppy while they are playing with teething toys?
It’s important to supervise your puppy while they are playing with teething toys, especially if they are prone to chewing and ingesting small parts. This will help to ensure their safety and prevent any accidents from happening.
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