Teething is a normal stage of puppy hood often beginning at around three months of age. It can be a painful stage for most puppies, so it is recommended that chew toys are made available for them. A toy for a teething puppy gives the pet something soothing and safe to chomp on; one that is a better alternative than slippers or leather shoes.
Teething puppies chew on things because of several reasons. One, it helps in relieving pain brought about by teething. It is also a way for puppies to explore their environment. Moreover, even when pups grow up, they would still chew from time to time to clean their teeth, soothe anxiety, and alleviate boredom.
In short, it is in a dog’s nature to chew. Moreover, our pets will do so on anything they can reach to such as shoes, chair, and even couch pillows. That’s why it is practical to give your teething pup a chew toy.
Chew toys can save your other household items from being damaged by teething pups. Moreover, chew toys are considered safe for pups. These are soft and thus won’t damage or fracture puppy teeth. Chew toys are also durable enough to handle aggressive biting of puppies.
Things to consider when shopping for a chew toy
Puppies can be categorized into three according to their chew personality– inhaler, destroyer, and nibbler. Inhalers or gulpers are those who bite off huge chunks of chew toys. Destroyers are those that will crush everything given to them. Nibblers, meanwhile, will take their time in chewing the treats given to them.
While there are numerous chew toys for puppies that you can choose from, it is recommended that you consider the following factors when shopping for a chew toy:
- Size. The toy should not be too small for your puppy as he could accidentally swallow or choke on it.
- Hardness. How would you know that a toy is too hard or firm for your puppy? Simply apply the thumbnail test by pressing it with your thumbnail. If the puppy chew toy doesn’t give, then it is too hard for your puppy and could potentially result in broken or fractured teeth.
- Coating. Avoid chewing toys with a coating such as the coating on pig’s ears as it can cause digestive problems.
- Attractiveness. The chew toy should be entertaining or attractive enough for puppies to play with it.
- Ease of cleaning. The ideal chew toy for puppies is dishwasher-safe for ease and convenience in cleaning.
Best Chew Toys for Teething Puppies
- Kong Classic Dog Toy
Widely considered as the gold standard in dog chew toys, the Kong Classic dog birthday gifts is durable and appealing for most canines. The irregular cone shape alone is enough to pique the curiosity of your pet. Pinning it down is also hard for most puppies, challenging them in the process. Its hollow center, meanwhile, can be filled with treats to entice dogs further to try it.
Available in various sizes, this toy for a teething puppy is durable and won’t be easily destructed by puppies and even adult dogs. This is also a reasonably priced chew toy.
- Nylabone Key Ring
If you are worried that your pup’s teeth will get damaged from chewing, then consider getting this chew toy from Nylabone. Perhaps the softest chew toy for puppies in the market today, it also features raised bristles for cleaning teeth and preventing the buildup of tartar. Moreover, the different textures of the chew toy can massage the gums of the puppy for improved oral health.
It is available in three sizes– extra small, small, and large. Made from a soft thermoplastic polymer, it is strong enough to handle aggressive biting. Take note, however, that it is only designed for puppies and not intended for the use of adult dogs.
- N-Bone Puppy Teething Ring Chicken Flavor
This toy for a teething puppy is edible. However, it is formulated with calcium and DHA to support the nutritional needs of puppies. If you are curious about its ingredients, then know that this teething ring is made from vegetable glycerin, dried potatoes, and with a natural chicken flavor.
It is also designed in such a way that pups will be able to hold onto it. The texture provides a soothing and fulfilling outlet for dog chewing.
