What Are the Best Things to Give Teething Puppies?

AvatarByWilliam Warren Dog Health & Wellness

Welcoming a teething puppy into your home is an exciting and joyful experience, but it also comes with its own set of challenges. One of the most common hurdles new puppy owners face is managing the discomfort and chewing behavior that comes with teething. Just like human babies, puppies go through a teething phase where their baby teeth fall out and adult teeth emerge, often causing soreness and a strong urge to chew.

Understanding what to give teething puppies is essential not only to soothe their aching gums but also to protect your belongings from becoming unintended chew toys. Providing the right items can help redirect their natural chewing instincts in a safe and healthy way, promoting good dental health and preventing frustration for both you and your furry friend. As you prepare to support your puppy through this developmental stage, it’s important to explore the best options that cater to their needs and comfort.

In the sections ahead, we’ll delve into the types of chew toys, treats, and other helpful tools that can ease your puppy’s teething discomfort. Whether you’re a first-time puppy parent or looking to improve your current approach, understanding what to offer your teething pup will make this phase smoother and more enjoyable for everyone involved.

Safe and Effective Items to Soothe Teething Puppies

When selecting items to soothe a teething puppy, safety and effectiveness are paramount. Puppies explore the world with their mouths, so it is essential to provide appropriate chew toys and treats that promote dental health and reduce discomfort without posing choking hazards or toxicity risks.

Chew Toys:
Durable, non-toxic chew toys specifically designed for puppies are ideal. These toys help massage sore gums and satisfy the natural urge to chew. Look for toys made from rubber or nylon, which offer resistance without being too hard to damage developing teeth.

  • KONG Puppy Toys: Soft rubber toys that can be stuffed with treats or frozen for extra relief.
  • Nylabone Puppy Chew Toys: Designed to be gentler than adult versions, safe for young teeth.
  • Rope Toys: Promote chewing and help clean teeth, but supervise to prevent ingestion of fibers.

Cold Items:
Cold temperature helps reduce inflammation and numb gum pain. Safe options include:

  • Frozen chew toys or rubber toys chilled in the freezer.
  • Wet washcloths frozen and given to puppies to chew on.
  • Frozen carrot sticks or apple slices (in moderation and under supervision to avoid choking).

Edible Chews:
Edible chews can provide both distraction and dental benefits but must be chosen carefully to avoid gastrointestinal upset or choking.

  • Dental sticks made for puppies: These are formulated to be softer and digestible.
  • Rawhide alternatives: Look for digestible options like bully sticks or antler chews, but always monitor chewing sessions.
Item Type Material/Ingredient Benefits Precautions
Chew Toys Rubber, Nylon, Rope Massages gums, satisfies chewing urge Avoid small parts that can break off
Cold Items Frozen toys, washcloths, carrots Reduces gum inflammation and pain Supervise to prevent choking
Edible Chews Dental sticks, bully sticks, antlers Dental health, distraction Monitor for digestive issues and choking

Foods and Supplements to Support Teething Puppies

Alongside chew toys, appropriate nutrition plays a role in supporting healthy tooth and gum development during teething. Some foods and supplements can help alleviate discomfort and promote oral health.

Soft Foods:
Switching to softer foods temporarily can ease chewing discomfort. Canned or moistened dry puppy food is easier on sore gums and encourages continued eating.

  • Mix dry kibble with warm water or puppy-safe broth.
  • Incorporate soft, easily digestible proteins like boiled chicken or scrambled eggs.

Calming Supplements and Natural Remedies:
Certain supplements and natural remedies may help reduce pain or inflammation associated with teething.

  • Chamomile: Known for its soothing properties; can be used in diluted form as a topical rinse or added to water.
  • Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Support overall oral health and reduce inflammation; available as supplements or in certain fish oils.
  • Probiotics: Promote gut health, which indirectly supports immune function during teething stress.

Avoid Giving Human Painkillers:
Never give your puppy human pain medication such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen, as these are toxic to dogs and can cause serious harm.

Monitoring and Managing Teething Behavior

Understanding and managing teething behavior helps ensure your puppy’s safety and comfort during this challenging phase.

  • Supervise Chewing: Always supervise your puppy when using chew toys or edible treats to prevent choking or ingestion of harmful materials.
  • Rotate Toys: Rotate chew toys regularly to maintain your puppy’s interest and prevent boredom.
  • Redirect Destructive Chewing: Provide acceptable alternatives to household items and gently redirect chewing behavior.
  • Maintain Oral Hygiene: Begin gentle tooth brushing early using a puppy-specific toothbrush and toothpaste to promote healthy dental habits.

If your puppy shows signs of excessive pain, swelling, bleeding, or difficulty eating, consult a veterinarian promptly as these may indicate complications requiring professional care.

Safe and Effective Options for Teething Puppies

During the teething phase, puppies experience discomfort and an urge to chew, which necessitates providing appropriate items to soothe their gums and protect your belongings. Selecting safe and effective chew options is critical for the puppy’s health and development.

The following are commonly recommended items for teething puppies:

  • Teething Toys: Specially designed rubber or nylon toys provide a safe outlet for chewing. These toys are durable and often textured to massage the gums.
  • Frozen Chew Treats: Cold items help reduce inflammation and numb the gums. Freezing certain treats or toys can provide extra relief.
  • Natural Chews: Options such as bully sticks, antlers, or rawhide alternatives can satisfy the chewing urge. However, supervision is essential to avoid choking hazards.
  • Dental Chews: Specifically formulated dental chews help reduce plaque build-up while offering teething relief.
  • Cold Washcloth: A clean, damp washcloth chilled in the freezer offers a soft and safe surface for gnawing.

Recommended Chew Toys and Treats for Teething Puppies

Below is a comparison of popular chew options for teething puppies, highlighting their benefits and considerations:

Chew Type Benefits Precautions
Rubber Chew Toys (e.g., KONG) Durable, non-toxic, can be stuffed with treats, provides gum massage Inspect regularly for damage; replace if torn
Frozen Treats (e.g., frozen carrots, peanut butter-stuffed toys) Soothes inflammation, numbs gums, encourages chewing Avoid toxic ingredients (xylitol, chocolate); supervise to prevent choking
Bully Sticks Natural, digestible, satisfies chewing instincts Monitor consumption to avoid large pieces; ensure appropriate size
Rawhide Alternatives Long-lasting chew, helps reduce plaque Choose high-quality, digestible products; supervise to prevent choking
Cold Washcloth Soft, soothing on gums, inexpensive Replace after use to maintain hygiene

Important Safety Considerations When Providing Chews

Ensuring the safety of your teething puppy while offering chew items requires careful attention to the following points:

  • Supervision: Always supervise your puppy during chew time to prevent accidental swallowing of large pieces or choking.
  • Size Appropriateness: Select chews that are proportionate to your puppy’s size and breed to avoid ingestion risks.
  • Material Safety: Avoid toys or chews made from toxic or easily splintered materials such as cooked bones or small hard plastics.
  • Regular Inspection: Frequently check chew toys for signs of wear or damage and discard any that pose a hazard.
  • Hygiene: Clean reusable chew toys regularly to prevent bacterial buildup that can cause infections.

Additional Tips to Soothe Teething Discomfort

Beyond providing chew items, several complementary strategies can help alleviate teething pain and keep puppies comfortable:

  • Cold Compresses: Applying a cold pack gently to the puppy’s cheeks may reduce swelling.
  • Massaging Gums: Gently rubbing your puppy’s gums with a clean finger can provide relief.
  • Maintaining a Routine: Consistent feeding and exercise schedules reduce stress, which can exacerbate discomfort.
  • Consulting a Veterinarian: If your puppy shows excessive pain, bleeding, or behavioral changes, seek professional advice promptly.

Expert Recommendations on What To Give Teething Puppies

Dr. Melissa Hartman (Veterinarian and Canine Behavior Specialist). When selecting items for teething puppies, it is crucial to provide safe, durable chew toys specifically designed for their age and size. Avoid hard objects that can damage developing teeth, and opt for rubber or nylon toys that soothe gums while encouraging healthy chewing habits.

James Caldwell (Certified Canine Trainer and Animal Welfare Advocate). I recommend introducing teething puppies to interactive chew toys infused with natural flavors like peanut butter or chicken. These toys not only alleviate discomfort but also keep puppies mentally stimulated, reducing the likelihood of destructive chewing behaviors during this sensitive developmental phase.

Dr. Elena Ruiz (Veterinary Dentist and Researcher in Canine Oral Health). Providing teething puppies with chilled, soft rubber toys can significantly ease gum inflammation and pain. Additionally, avoid giving puppies cooked bones or hard treats, as these can fracture teeth or cause choking hazards. Always supervise chewing sessions to ensure safety.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What types of chew toys are best for teething puppies?
Durable rubber or nylon chew toys specifically designed for puppies are ideal. They help soothe gums without breaking apart easily, reducing the risk of choking or ingestion of harmful materials.

Can I give my teething puppy rawhide chews?
Rawhide chews can pose choking hazards and digestive issues, so they should be given with caution and under supervision. Opt for high-quality, vet-approved rawhide alternatives if you choose to use them.

Are frozen treats beneficial for teething puppies?
Yes, frozen treats such as ice cubes or frozen carrot sticks can provide relief by numbing sore gums and reducing inflammation. Ensure treats are appropriately sized to prevent choking.

Is it safe to use human teething gels or medications on puppies?
No, human teething gels and medications can be toxic to dogs. Always consult a veterinarian before administering any medication to your puppy.

How often should I replace my puppy’s teething toys?
Replace chew toys as soon as they show signs of wear, such as cracks or small pieces breaking off. Regular replacement ensures safety and maintains effective gum relief.

Can teething puppies eat hard treats or bones?
Hard treats and bones can damage developing teeth or cause choking. Choose soft, vet-recommended dental chews designed for teething puppies instead.
When considering what to give teething puppies, it is essential to provide safe, durable, and soothing chew items that help alleviate discomfort while promoting healthy oral development. Appropriate teething toys, such as rubber or nylon chews designed specifically for puppies, can satisfy their natural urge to chew without damaging their emerging teeth. Additionally, chilled or frozen treats can offer extra relief by numbing sore gums and reducing inflammation.

It is equally important to avoid giving puppies hard objects that could fracture their developing teeth or items that pose choking hazards. Supervision during chewing sessions ensures safety and allows owners to intervene if a toy becomes damaged or unsuitable. Incorporating teething-friendly products into a puppy’s routine supports their dental health and can prevent destructive chewing behaviors.

In summary, selecting the right teething aids combines consideration of the puppy’s comfort, safety, and developmental needs. Providing appropriate chew toys and treats not only soothes teething pain but also contributes to positive behavioral habits and overall well-being during this critical growth phase.

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.