What Are the Best Chew Toys for Puppies Going Through Teething?

When you bring a new puppy home, it’s akin to bringing home a bundle of energy. And when your little canine friend starts teething, it’s a whole new level of excitement and chaos. Puppies typically start teething around three weeks and by the age of six months, they usually have their full set of permanent teeth. During this phase, they have a natural instinct to chew to relieve their discomfort. This is where chew toys can be a lifesaver. These toys not only soothe their sore gums but also keep them engaged and aid in their overall development. But what are the best chew toys available in the market for teething puppies?

The Importance of Size and Material in Chew Toys

It is essential to bear in mind that not all chew toys are created equal. The size and material of these toys play a pivotal role in their effectiveness and safety.

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The size of the toy should be appropriate for your dog’s size. A toy that is too small can be a choking hazard, whereas a toy that is too large may not interest your puppy. A good rule of thumb is to opt for a toy that your dog can comfortably hold and chew, but cannot swallow.

The material of the chew toy is another crucial aspect to consider. It should be durable, yet gentle enough not to damage the puppy’s teeth. Toys made of rubber are often a good choice as they are sturdy and can withstand even the most aggressive chewers. Moreover, they are soft enough not to hurt your puppy’s developing teeth and gums.

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The Top Chew Toys for Teething Puppies

When it comes to selecting the best chew toys, it’s necessary to check for quality, durability, and safety. This section highlights some of the best chew toys that are popular among dog parents.

KONG Puppy Toy: This is a highly-rated chew toy on Amazon. It is made from a unique rubber formula that is perfect for teething puppies. It’s gentle on the puppy’s teeth and gums, yet durable enough to provide long-lasting entertainment. The KONG Puppy Toy can also be filled with treats to keep your puppy engaged for longer periods.

Nylabone Puppy Chew Toy: This chew toy is specifically designed for teething puppies. It is made from soft, flexible material that is designed to prevent any damage to your puppy’s teeth. The textured surface also provides added dental benefits by cleaning the teeth and reducing plaque and tartar build-up.

Benebone Bacon Flavored Wishbone Chew Toy: This chew toy from Benebone is a favorite for its engaging shape and delicious bacon flavor. It’s made from durable nylon and is perfect for aggressive chewers.

Why Chew Toys Are Essential for Teething Puppies

Chew toys are more than just a means to keep your puppy occupied. They play a significant role during your puppy’s teething phase.

Chewing on toys provides relief from the discomfort associated with teething. The act of chewing stimulates the puppy’s gums, which aids in the eruption of new teeth. Moreover, it also helps in the removal of puppy teeth, making way for the adult teeth to grow in.

Chew toys also promote dental health. They help in the reduction of plaque and tartar build-up, thereby preventing dental diseases in the long run.

Moreover, having a designated chew toy teaches your puppy what is appropriate to chew on. This can save your household items from becoming victims of your teething puppy.

How to Encourage Your Puppy to Use Chew Toys

Sometimes, puppies may not show an immediate interest in the chew toys. However, there are ways to encourage them to use these toys.

One way is to engage in interactive play sessions with your puppy using the chew toy. Once your puppy associates the toy with fun and play, they are more likely to use it during their teething phase.

You can also opt for treat-dispensing or flavored chew toys. These types of toys provide additional stimulation and can make the chewing experience more enjoyable for your puppy.

Lastly, rotating the toys can also help to maintain your puppy’s interest. If they have access to the same toy all the time, they may grow bored of it. By introducing a new toy every few days, you can keep your puppy’s interest piqued.

Overall, selecting a suitable chew toy can play a significant role in your puppy’s teething phase. Remember to check for the size and material of the toy, and ensure it is safe and durable. With the right chew toy, your puppy’s teething period can be a more comfortable and enjoyable experience.

Selecting Safe Chew Toys: A Buyer’s Guide

Just as it is with babies, puppies also go through a teething phase. During this period, they are likely to chew on anything they can get their little paws on. Therefore, it is essential to provide them with safe and suitable chew toys.

Before you buy a chew toy, make sure to check its durability. Puppies can be quite aggressive chewers, and the last thing you want is for the toy to break into small pieces that could be swallowed or choked on. Hence, it’s not advisable to get toys made from soft plastic or thin rubber. KONG Puppy toys and Nylabone Puppy Chew toys are excellent examples of durable chew toys suitable for teething puppies.

Another aspect to consider is whether the toy is dishwasher safe. Cleanliness is extremely important as dirty toys can be a breeding ground for bacteria, which can cause infections. Therefore, being able to toss the chew toy in the dishwasher for a thorough cleaning is a big plus.

Avoid toys with small parts or decorations that can be chewed off and swallowed. This includes toys with squeakers, as many puppies find it a challenge to ‘kill the squeak’ and could ingest it in the process.

Lastly, also pay attention to the toy’s texture. A good teething toy should have varied surfaces – ridges, bumps, or soft spikes. This not only keeps your puppy interested but also provides a more effective gum massage.

How to Safely Use Chew Toys

Once you’ve selected the perfect chew toy for your teething puppy, the next step is to ensure it’s used safely. There are several pointers to keep in mind in this regard.

Firstly, never leave your puppy unattended while they’re using a chew toy. There’s always a small risk of choking, so it’s important to keep an eye on them.

Also, make a habit of inspecting the chew toys regularly for any signs of wear and tear. If a toy becomes damaged, replace it immediately to prevent your puppy from swallowing any broken pieces.

Another key point is to remember that chew toys are not a substitute for dental care. Even though chew toys can help reduce plaque and tartar build-up, they should be used in conjunction with regular tooth brushing and vet checks.

The size of the chew toy matters too. It should be large enough so that your puppy cannot swallow it, yet small enough for them to comfortably chew on. Never give a small puppy a chew toy designed for a large dog, as it could hurt their jaws.

Chew toys can be a wonderful tool to help your puppy through their teething phase. They provide relief from the discomfort and also keep the puppy entertained. However, it’s vital to choose the right chew toy and use it safely for the best results.

Conclusion

Providing your teething puppy with a suitable chew toy is one of the best ways to ease their discomfort and keep them occupied. There are a plethora of chew toys available in the market today, but not all of them are safe or effective. Always opt for durable, dishwasher-safe toys without small parts or decorations. And remember, even the best chew toy is not a substitute for proper dental care and supervision. By keeping these tips in mind, you can ensure that your puppy’s teething phase is as smooth and enjoyable as possible.