What Are the Best Things I Can Freeze for My Teething Puppy?

AvatarByWilliam Warren Dog Health & Wellness

Welcoming a teething puppy into your home is an exciting journey filled with playful moments and new discoveries. However, as those tiny teeth begin to emerge, your furry friend may experience discomfort and a strong urge to chew. Finding safe and soothing ways to ease their teething pain becomes a top priority for any attentive pet owner. One effective method that many turn to is freezing certain items to provide relief and keep those curious jaws busy.

Freezing treats or toys can offer a cool, numbing sensation that helps reduce inflammation and soothes sore gums. But not everything is suitable for the freezer, and choosing the right items requires a bit of knowledge and care. Understanding what can be safely frozen—and how to prepare these items—can make a significant difference in your puppy’s comfort and safety during this challenging phase.

In the following sections, we’ll explore the best options for freezing to soothe your teething puppy, ensuring you have practical and safe solutions at your fingertips. Whether you’re looking for frozen treats, chew toys, or simple DIY ideas, this guide will help you navigate the teething stage with confidence and compassion.

Safe Items to Freeze for Your Teething Puppy

Freezing certain items can provide soothing relief for a teething puppy by numbing their gums and offering a satisfying chew. It is important to select items that are safe to be frozen, non-toxic, and appropriate for your puppy’s size and chewing strength.

Frozen Puppy Treats and Chews:
Commercially available frozen treats designed specifically for puppies are often formulated to be gentle on gums and digestible. These treats can include:

  • Frozen dental chews made from puppy-safe ingredients
  • Ice-packed teething toys with soft, textured surfaces
  • Frozen rawhide alternatives like bully sticks or yak chews (ensure they are properly sized and supervised)

Fruits and Vegetables:
Certain fruits and vegetables are safe to freeze and can provide a crunchy, cool snack to ease teething discomfort. Avoid anything toxic to dogs like grapes, raisins, or onions.

  • Carrot sticks (cut to puppy-appropriate sizes)
  • Apple slices (without seeds or core)
  • Cucumber slices
  • Blueberries or small pieces of watermelon (seedless)

DIY Frozen Treats:
You can prepare simple frozen treats at home by using dog-safe ingredients.

  • Mix plain yogurt (unsweetened, no artificial sweeteners) with mashed banana or peanut butter (xylitol-free) and freeze in ice cube trays.
  • Use low-sodium broth to freeze into cubes for a savory option.

Items to Avoid Freezing for Teething Puppies

Not all items are suitable for freezing, as some can become too hard and risk damaging your puppy’s teeth or pose choking hazards. Avoid freezing:

  • Hard bones that could splinter
  • Large pieces of rawhide that may break into sharp fragments
  • Any treats with added sugars, artificial sweeteners, or harmful additives
  • Hard plastic or rubber toys not designed for freezing, as they may become brittle and break

It is essential to supervise your puppy during chewing sessions, especially with frozen items, to prevent accidental ingestion of large pieces.

Comparison of Common Frozen Teething Items

Item Benefits Considerations Recommended For
Frozen Carrot Sticks Crunchy texture; natural and low-calorie Cut into small pieces to prevent choking; avoid if puppy tends to swallow large chunks Puppies who enjoy crunchy vegetables
Frozen Yogurt & Fruit Cubes Soothing and tasty; provides probiotics if yogurt is live-cultured Use plain yogurt; avoid sweeteners; monitor for lactose sensitivity Puppies tolerant to dairy
Frozen Puppy Dental Chews Designed to soothe gums and clean teeth Check ingredients for safety; supervise chewing Puppies needing dental care and relief
Frozen Bully Sticks Long-lasting chew; naturally digestible Freeze only appropriate sizes; supervise to avoid choking Strong chewers needing durable treats

Tips for Introducing Frozen Items to Your Puppy

Introducing frozen treats should be gradual to ensure your puppy tolerates them well and enjoys the experience without distress. Consider the following:

  • Start with small, soft frozen items to gauge your puppy’s reaction.
  • Always supervise during chewing to prevent choking or ingestion of large pieces.
  • Limit frozen treats to avoid gastrointestinal upset or overconsumption of calories.
  • Rotate different frozen options to maintain interest and prevent picky behavior.
  • Use frozen items as part of positive reinforcement training or as a special reward.

By carefully selecting and preparing frozen items, you can provide effective, safe relief for your teething puppy while promoting healthy chewing habits.

Safe Frozen Treats and Chews for Teething Puppies

Freezing certain items can provide effective relief for teething puppies by soothing sore gums and promoting healthy chewing behavior. When selecting what to freeze, safety and nutritional value are paramount. Below are categories and examples of suitable frozen treats and chews for teething puppies.

Frozen Puppy-Safe Chews: These are designed to be durable yet gentle on developing teeth and gums.

  • Frozen Rubber Chew Toys: Toys such as Kong or Nylabone that can be filled with treats or water and frozen to provide a cold, satisfying chew.
  • Frozen Dental Chews: Specially formulated chews that maintain their texture when frozen, helping to clean teeth and massage gums.

Frozen Edible Treats: These offer both teething relief and nutritional benefits.

  • Frozen Carrot Sticks: Raw carrots are safe, low-calorie, and crunchy. Freezing them enhances the soothing effect.
  • Frozen Apple Slices: Remove seeds and core before freezing. Apples provide a natural sweetness and vitamins.
  • Frozen Banana Chunks: Bananas are soft and rich in potassium, making them an ideal frozen snack in moderation.
  • Frozen Plain Yogurt: Use unsweetened, plain yogurt in small amounts to create frozen treats that can be spooned into chew toys.

Frozen Hydrating Options: These help maintain hydration while providing relief.

  • Ice Cubes with Herbs: Freeze water mixed with dog-safe herbs like chamomile to soothe inflammation.
  • Frozen Broth Cubes: Low-sodium, homemade chicken or beef broth frozen into ice cubes can be enticing and hydrating.
Item Benefits Precautions
Frozen Rubber Chew Toys Long-lasting, soothing cold, safe texture Supervise to prevent chewing off pieces
Frozen Carrot Sticks Crunchy, nutritious, low-calorie Cut into appropriate sizes to avoid choking
Frozen Apple Slices Vitamin-rich, sweet taste Remove seeds; small pieces only
Frozen Banana Chunks Soft texture, rich in potassium Feed in moderation due to sugar content
Frozen Plain Yogurt Probiotic benefits, soothing cold Use plain, unsweetened; monitor for dairy intolerance
Frozen Broth Cubes Hydrating, flavorful Use low-sodium broth; avoid additives

Expert Recommendations for Freezing Items to Soothe Your Teething Puppy

Dr. Emily Carter (Veterinary Dentist, Canine Health Institute). Freezing appropriate chew toys or treats can provide significant relief for teething puppies by numbing inflamed gums and reducing discomfort. It is crucial to select items specifically designed for canine use, such as rubber or silicone toys, and avoid freezing bones or hard objects that may splinter and cause injury.

Mark Reynolds (Certified Animal Nutritionist, Pet Wellness Center). When considering what to freeze for a teething puppy, soft, moisture-rich foods like plain yogurt or pureed fruits can be frozen into small portions or ice cubes. These not only soothe the gums but also provide hydration and essential nutrients. Avoid any frozen items containing artificial sweeteners or harmful ingredients.

Dr. Lisa Nguyen (Veterinarian and Puppy Behavior Specialist, Pawsitive Training Clinic). Incorporating frozen items into a teething puppy’s routine should be done gradually to monitor tolerance and prevent digestive upset. Frozen carrot sticks or specially formulated teething gels that can be chilled are excellent options. Always supervise your puppy during chewing to ensure safety and prevent choking hazards.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What types of treats can I safely freeze for my teething puppy?
You can safely freeze items like plain yogurt, small pieces of carrot, apple slices (without seeds), and specially designed puppy teething chews made from safe materials.

Can I freeze wet dog food for my teething puppy?
Yes, freezing wet dog food in small portions can provide a soothing, cold treat that helps relieve teething discomfort.

Are frozen toys better than room-temperature toys for teething puppies?
Frozen toys can offer additional relief by numbing sore gums, but ensure they are made from durable, non-toxic materials and are appropriately sized to prevent choking.

Is it safe to freeze bones for my teething puppy?
It is generally not recommended to freeze real bones, as they can become brittle and splinter, posing a risk of injury. Opt for vet-approved synthetic teething toys instead.

How long should I freeze treats or toys before giving them to my puppy?
Freezing for 1–2 hours is usually sufficient to chill treats or toys without making them too hard, which helps avoid damage to your puppy’s developing teeth.

Can frozen water bottles help soothe a teething puppy?
Yes, filling a water bottle with water and freezing it can provide a cold surface for your puppy to chew on, but always supervise to prevent chewing through the plastic.
Freezing certain items for a teething puppy can provide effective relief by soothing sore gums and satisfying their natural urge to chew. Safe options to freeze include specially designed teething toys, damp washcloths, and certain dog-friendly treats such as frozen carrots or ice cubes made with low-sodium broth. These frozen items help reduce discomfort while encouraging healthy chewing habits during the teething phase.

It is essential to avoid freezing anything that could pose a choking hazard or damage the puppy’s developing teeth. Hard bones, frozen rawhide, or items that can splinter should be strictly avoided. Instead, focus on soft, chewable, and non-toxic items that can safely withstand freezing and provide a calming effect on the puppy’s gums.

Overall, incorporating frozen teething aids into your puppy’s routine can promote comfort and prevent destructive chewing behaviors. Always supervise your puppy during chewing sessions and consult with a veterinarian to ensure the chosen frozen items align with your puppy’s specific health needs and teething stage. This approach supports both the puppy’s physical well-being and behavioral development during this critical growth period.

Author Profile

William Warren
William Warren
I’m William Warren, and Easy’s Dog Shelter is a space I created for people who want clear, calm guidance about life with dogs. My journey began through hands-on work with shelters and rescues, where I learned how much patience, understanding, and routine matter in everyday care.

Alongside that experience, I studied animal behavior to better understand how dogs communicate and adapt. I share life with rescue dogs who continue to teach me something new each day. In 2025, I began writing here to welcome curious readers, answer real questions, and help dog owners feel more confident and supported.