Welcoming a new puppy into your home is a joyous occasion, but it often comes with a few challenges. If you've noticed your furniture legs, shoes and even your hands becoming the target of tiny, sharp teeth, you're likely in the midst of the teething phase. This is a natural and necessary stage for your pup, but it requires providing them with safe and appropriate outlets for their chewing instincts.
Navigating the world of puppy teething toys can be overwhelming. As a Joybuy Product Recommendation Officer, my role is to help you find practical solutions that are suitable for your new family member. This guide will walk you through what to look for in a good chew toy and offer some of our top recommendations to help soothe your puppy's gums and keep them happily engaged.
Before we look at specific products, it's helpful to understand what makes a toy a good choice for a teething puppy. Keeping these three points in mind will help you select items that are both safe and effective.
A puppy explores the world with its mouth, so the material of their toys is paramount. Look for toys made from non-toxic, durable materials. Natural rubber is often a reliable choice as it's tough yet has enough give to satisfy a chewing urge without being too hard on developing teeth. Other options include specific nylon blends designed for puppies. Always check that a toy is BPA-free and, where possible, made from food-safe materials, adhering to the safety standards you'd expect for any family member.
Puppy teeth are sharp, and a toy that isn't durable can quickly become a hazard. Small pieces that break off can pose a choking risk. It's crucial to select durable puppy toys designed to withstand persistent chewing. Equally important is size. A toy that is too small for your puppy can be swallowed, while one that is too large may be difficult for them to handle. Always choose toys specifically labelled for your puppy's current size and breed, especially when looking for toys for small puppies.
A good toy does more than just provide something to chew on; it offers puppy enrichment. Interactive puppy toys, such as those that can be filled with treats, turn chewing into a rewarding puzzle. This mental stimulation helps to alleviate boredom, which is often a root cause of destructive behaviour. Toys that make sounds or have interesting textures can also keep a puppy's attention for longer, redirecting their focus away from your belongings.
Here are a few carefully selected options that address the common needs of teething puppies, from soothing sore gums to providing mental stimulation.
Why It Stands Out: This toy combines a durable chew with the engaging challenge of an interactive treat dispenser. Its hollow design can be filled with your puppy's favourite kibble or treats, encouraging them to play and problem-solve to get their reward.
Pros:
Who is it for? This is an ideal choice for food-motivated puppies who need both a physical outlet for chewing and a mental challenge to prevent boredom. It’s a great tool for puppy enrichment.
Why It Stands Out: This chew toy is made from a unique blend of natural bamboo fibre and nylon, which is softer than many traditional nylon toys. It's infused with a real salmon scent to capture and hold a puppy's interest.
Pros:
Who is it for? Perfect for puppies and moderate chewers who are driven by scent. Its unique material makes it a good option for owners concerned about the hardness of traditional nylon puppy chew toys.
Why It Stands Out: Not all teething toys need to be hard. This soft plush toy is designed for the youngest puppies, offering comfort alongside gentle play. The internal rattle stimulates curiosity and makes it more engaging than a standard soft toy.
Pros:
Who is it for? An excellent choice for a new puppy starter kit. It’s best suited for very young puppies or those with a gentle disposition who enjoy carrying and cuddling their toys as much as chewing them.
Every puppy has a unique personality and chewing style. If the recommendations above aren't quite what you're looking for, or if you simply want to build a diverse toy box, there are many other choices available.
Explore our full range of puppy chews toys to find the perfect match for your new companion's needs.
You can provide your puppy with a variety of safe puppy chew toys. Good options include durable rubber toys (especially those you can freeze to soothe gums), softer nylon toys designed for puppies and comfortable plush toys for gentle mouthing. Always ensure the toy is specifically made for puppies and is the correct size for your dog's breed.
A safe puppy toy is one that is appropriately sized to prevent swallowing, made from non-toxic materials and durable enough to resist breaking into small, hazardous pieces. Check product labels for materials like BPA-free rubber or puppy-specific nylon. It is always recommended to supervise your puppy during playtime, especially with new toys, and to inspect their toys regularly for any signs of damage.
Puppies typically go through their most intense teething phase between three and six months of age as their adult teeth come in. However, their chewing instincts start much earlier. Providing appropriate teething toys from the moment you bring your puppy home helps establish good habits and provides them with comfort and stimulation throughout this developmental stage.