What Are the Best Things to Put Inside a Kong for a Puppy?

AvatarByWilliam Warren Training & Obedience

When it comes to keeping a playful puppy entertained and mentally stimulated, a Kong toy is often a go-to solution for many pet owners. These durable, hollow toys can be filled with a variety of tasty treats and safe ingredients that not only satisfy your puppy’s natural chewing instincts but also provide hours of engaging fun. Knowing what to put inside a Kong for a puppy can transform an ordinary toy into a powerful tool for enrichment and training.

Choosing the right fillings for your puppy’s Kong is more than just a matter of taste—it’s about balancing nutrition, safety, and the level of challenge appropriate for your furry friend’s age and chewing habits. Whether you’re aiming to calm an energetic pup, encourage independent play, or simply reward good behavior, the options for stuffing a Kong are both versatile and customizable. Understanding these options will help you make the most of this popular toy and support your puppy’s development in a healthy, enjoyable way.

In the following sections, we’ll explore a variety of ideas and tips to inspire you in selecting the perfect Kong fillings for your puppy. From simple, wholesome ingredients to creative combinations, you’ll discover how to keep your pup happily engaged while promoting good habits and overall well-being.

Safe and Nutritious Fillings for Puppy Kongs

When selecting ingredients to fill a Kong for a puppy, it is essential to prioritize safety, nutrition, and suitability to your puppy’s developmental stage. Puppies have sensitive digestive systems, so avoid any foods that are toxic or hard to digest. Begin with simple, single-ingredient fillings and gradually introduce more complex mixtures as your puppy grows and adjusts.

Suitable fillings include:

  • Soft fruits and vegetables: Small pieces of banana, cooked sweet potato, or steamed carrots. These are gentle on the digestive system and provide vitamins and fiber.
  • Plain yogurt: Choose unsweetened, unflavored yogurt with live cultures. It adds probiotics and helps keep the Kong filling soft.
  • Natural peanut butter: Make sure it does not contain xylitol or added sugars. Peanut butter is high in fat and protein, so use it sparingly.
  • Cottage cheese: Low-fat cottage cheese is rich in protein and calcium, ideal for puppies.
  • Cooked lean meats: Shredded chicken or turkey without seasoning can add protein and flavor.
  • Kibble soaked in water or broth: This softens the dry food and makes it easier for puppies to lick out.

These ingredients can be used individually or combined to create engaging and nutritious Kong fillings.

Creative Kong Filling Ideas for Puppies

To maintain your puppy’s interest and provide enrichment, vary the Kong fillings regularly. Combining different textures and flavors encourages problem-solving and chewing, which supports dental health and mental stimulation.

Some creative filling ideas include:

  • Frozen yogurt and fruit combo: Mix plain yogurt with mashed banana or blueberries, then freeze inside the Kong for a cool treat.
  • Peanut butter and kibble mash: Blend natural peanut butter with softened kibble to create a sticky, satisfying filling.
  • Chicken and sweet potato puree: Mash cooked chicken with steamed sweet potato for a savory and nutritious option.
  • Cottage cheese and pumpkin: Combine low-fat cottage cheese with canned pumpkin (not pie filling) to add fiber and vitamins.
  • Broth and kibble gel: Soak kibble in low-sodium chicken or beef broth until soft, then pack it tightly into the Kong.

Always observe your puppy when introducing new fillings to ensure they tolerate them well.

Preparing and Stuffing the Kong for Puppies

Proper preparation of the Kong filling helps extend the chewing time and makes the experience more rewarding for your puppy. Here are tips for preparing and stuffing the Kong:

  • Use a small spoon or spatula to push the filling deep inside the Kong, especially for young puppies who might lose interest if the filling is too easily accessible.
  • For longer-lasting treats, partially freeze the Kong after stuffing.
  • To create multiple layers, stuff the Kong with a small amount of filling, freeze briefly, then add another layer and freeze again.
  • Avoid overstuffing, which can make it difficult for puppies to extract the filling and may cause frustration.

Comparison of Common Kong Fillings for Puppies

Filling Nutritional Benefits Ease of Preparation Longevity in Kong Suitability for Puppies
Plain Yogurt Probiotics, calcium Easy (ready to use) Short (soft texture) Excellent for digestive health
Natural Peanut Butter Protein, healthy fats Easy (ready to use) Moderate (sticky texture) Good, but use sparingly
Cooked Chicken High-quality protein Moderate (requires cooking/shredding) Short (soft texture) Excellent for growth
Steamed Sweet Potato Fiber, vitamins A & C Moderate (requires cooking/mashing) Short to moderate Great for digestion
Kibble Soaked in Broth Balanced nutrition Easy (requires soaking) Moderate Good for familiar flavors

Safe and Nutritious Fillings for Puppy Kongs

Choosing the right fillings for a puppy’s Kong toy is essential to ensure the treat is both enjoyable and safe. Puppies have sensitive digestive systems and are still developing their eating habits, so it’s important to select ingredients that support health and avoid choking hazards.

Optimal fillings should be:

  • Soft enough for a puppy to chew and lick comfortably
  • Nutritious and free from harmful additives
  • Low in sugar, salt, and artificial ingredients
  • Easy to clean out of the Kong after use

Here are expert-recommended options categorized by type:

Type Examples Notes
Dairy-Based Plain yogurt (unsweetened, no xylitol), cottage cheese Provides probiotics and calcium; avoid if puppy is lactose intolerant
Protein-Rich Cooked chicken, turkey, or lean beef (shredded or chopped finely) High in protein; serve plain without seasoning or bones
Vegetables and Fruits Mashed sweet potato, pumpkin puree, carrot puree, apple slices (no seeds) Rich in fiber and vitamins; introduce gradually to monitor tolerance
Commercial Puppy Treats Soft, small-sized puppy biscuits or training treats Use sparingly to prevent overfeeding; check ingredient list for safety
Specialty Pastes Peanut butter (xylitol-free), natural almond butter Use in moderation due to high fat content; ensure no toxic additives

Techniques for Preparing Puppy Kongs

Proper preparation of the Kong toy ensures that puppies remain engaged without frustration. Here are expert tips on how to fill and serve Kongs for puppies:

  • Start Simple: Initially fill the Kong with easy-to-remove ingredients like plain yogurt or soft treats to help the puppy understand the concept.
  • Layering: Alternate layers of different fillings to keep the puppy interested and challenge their problem-solving skills.
  • Freezing: Freeze the filled Kong for 1–2 hours to create a longer-lasting, cold chew that soothes teething discomfort.
  • Avoid Overstuffing: Leave some space for the puppy to access the treats; overly packed Kongs can cause frustration.
  • Check Consistency: Mix dry and wet ingredients to achieve a sticky but manageable texture that stays inside the Kong without falling out too quickly.

Ingredients to Avoid When Filling a Puppy Kong

Certain foods and ingredients must be strictly avoided when preparing Kongs for puppies to prevent health risks.

Ingredient Reason to Avoid
Chocolate Toxic to dogs, can cause severe illness
Grapes and Raisins Can cause kidney failure
Xylitol (artificial sweetener) Highly toxic, found in some peanut butters and candies
Raw Bones Risk of choking and intestinal damage
Onions, Garlic, Chives Can cause gastrointestinal upset and anemia
High Fat or Salty Foods Can lead to pancreatitis and other health problems

Additional Tips for Using Kongs with Puppies

To maximize the benefits of Kong toys and ensure a safe, positive experience for your puppy, consider these professional guidelines:

  • Supervise: Always watch your puppy during Kong play to prevent choking or ingestion of large chunks.
  • Introduce Gradually: Allow your puppy to explore the Kong empty before filling it to reduce anxiety.
  • Rotate Fillings: Vary the contents to maintain interest and provide balanced nutrition.
  • Clean Regularly: Thoroughly wash the Kong after each use to prevent bacterial buildup.
  • Adjust Difficulty: Use larger Kongs or more complex fillings as your puppy grows and becomes more skilled.

Expert Recommendations on What To Put Inside A Kong For A Puppy

Dr. Emily Hartman (Veterinarian and Canine Nutrition Specialist). When selecting treats to fill a Kong for a puppy, it is essential to prioritize ingredients that are both nutritious and easy to digest. Soft foods like plain yogurt, mashed sweet potatoes, or unsweetened pumpkin puree provide excellent options that can soothe teething discomfort while offering beneficial nutrients. Avoid any foods that contain artificial sweeteners or excessive salt to protect your puppy’s developing digestive system.

Jason Lee (Certified Professional Dog Trainer, Canine Behavior Institute). For puppies, stuffing a Kong with a combination of wet and dry textures can keep them engaged longer and stimulate mental development. I recommend mixing small amounts of kibble with a bit of low-fat cottage cheese or natural peanut butter (xylitol-free) to create a rewarding challenge. This approach encourages problem-solving skills and helps reduce boredom-related behaviors.

Dr. Samantha Nguyen (Animal Behaviorist and Puppy Development Expert). When introducing a Kong to a young puppy, it is important to use safe, non-choking hazard fillers that promote positive associations. Soft fruits like banana slices or blueberries, combined with a thin layer of unsalted peanut butter, work well to entice puppies without overwhelming them. Additionally, freezing the Kong after filling can extend the chewing time and provide soothing relief for teething puppies.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What are safe foods to put inside a Kong for a puppy?
Safe options include plain yogurt, mashed pumpkin, soft fruits like banana, and puppy-safe peanut butter without xylitol. Avoid toxic foods such as chocolate, grapes, and onions.

How do I prepare a Kong for a teething puppy?
Fill the Kong with soft, soothing foods like chilled yogurt or pureed pumpkin. Freezing the filled Kong can provide additional relief for sore gums.

Can I use treats inside a Kong for a puppy?
Yes, small, healthy treats can be placed inside the Kong to encourage engagement. Ensure treats are appropriate for puppies and do not exceed daily caloric needs.

How often should I give my puppy a Kong filled with treats?
Limit usage to a few times per week to prevent overfeeding and maintain the toy’s novelty. Use it as a training tool or to keep the puppy occupied safely.

What should I avoid putting inside a Kong for a puppy?
Avoid foods that are hard, choking hazards, or toxic to dogs, such as bones, rawhide, chocolate, and anything containing artificial sweeteners like xylitol.

Can I use wet dog food inside a Kong for my puppy?
Yes, wet dog food is suitable and can be mixed with other soft ingredients to increase palatability and encourage chewing behavior.
When considering what to put inside a Kong for a puppy, it is essential to choose safe, nutritious, and engaging fillings that cater to the puppy’s developmental needs and chewing abilities. Soft treats, puppy-safe peanut butter, plain yogurt, mashed fruits or vegetables, and specially formulated puppy treats are excellent options. These fillings not only provide mental stimulation but also help soothe teething discomfort, making the Kong an effective tool for both play and training.

It is important to avoid ingredients that could pose choking hazards, contain harmful additives, or are toxic to dogs, such as chocolate, xylitol, or certain nuts. Additionally, introducing new foods gradually and monitoring the puppy’s reaction ensures that the Kong experience remains positive and safe. Freezing the Kong with fillings can extend the engagement time and provide extra relief for teething puppies.

Overall, using a Kong with appropriate fillings supports healthy chewing habits, alleviates boredom, and encourages independent play. By thoughtfully selecting and preparing the contents, owners can maximize the benefits of this enrichment tool, contributing to their puppy’s well-being and behavioral development.

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.