When your puppy starts teething, it’s not only uncomfortable for them but can also result in chewed-up shoes, furniture, and just about anything within their reach. Choosing the right toys can make a significant difference in helping your dog cope with the teething process. In this guide, we’ll explore the best toys for teething dogs, why they’re beneficial, and what you should look for when selecting them.
Understanding the Teething Process
Puppies, like human babies, go through a teething process where they lose their baby teeth and gain adult teeth. When puppies are born, they have no teeth, but by the time they are about 3 weeks old, they start developing their deciduous teeth (also known as baby or milk teeth).
Do You Know How Many Teeth a Puppy Have?
A puppy will typically have 28 baby teeth by the time they are about 6 weeks old. These teeth include incisors, canines, and premolars. However, these are only temporary and will start to fall out to make room for their adult teeth.
As puppies grow, they begin losing their baby teeth around 12 to 16 weeks of age. Over the next several months, their adult teeth will start to come in. By the time the teething process is complete, a puppy will have a total of 42 permanent teeth — 20 on the top jaw and 22 on the bottom.1
What Is the Puppy Teething Timeline?
Puppies usually stop teething by the time they are 6 to 8 months old, when all their adult teeth have fully erupted. However, the discomfort associated with teething can last several months, typically starting around 3 months and subsiding once the adult teeth are fully in place.2
Teething can be a challenging time for both puppies and their owners. During this phase, puppies experience sore gums and an increased urge to chew on anything they can find. Providing appropriate teething toys can help soothe their discomfort and prevent them from chewing on inappropriate items, such as furniture or shoes.
Key Milestones in Puppy Teething:
- 3-4 weeks old: Baby teeth start to come in.
- 6 weeks old: Puppies have 28 baby teeth.
- 12-16 weeks old: Puppies start losing their baby teeth.
- 6-8 months old: Teething ends, and puppies have 42 permanent teeth.
Understanding the teething timeline and providing appropriate chew toys can help make this phase easier for both you and your puppy.
What Are Common Puppy Teething Symptoms?
Some typical signs that a puppy is teething include:
- Increased chewing behavior
- Drooling
- Mild irritability or fussiness
- Slight decrease in appetite
- Red or swollen gums
- Small spots of blood on chew toys
- Finding tiny fallen teeth around the house
Most puppies experience some discomfort during teething, but it’s generally not severely painful. Providing appropriate chew toys can help soothe sore gums.3
Also read: Essential Pet Care Tips For Dogs: Keep Healthy and Happy
Why Teething Toys are Important
Teething toys aren’t just about keeping your puppy comfortable. They serve several important purposes:
- Pain relief: The right toys can help soothe sore gums.
- Proper chewing habits: They teach your pup what’s okay to chew on.
- Dental health: Some toys can help clean teeth and massage gums.
- Mental stimulation: Chewing can be a great way to keep your dog’s mind active.
Now that we know why these toys are so crucial, let’s look at some of the best options out there.
Best Toys for Teething Dogs
1. KONG Puppy Toy

The KONG Puppy Toy is a classic, designed specifically for growing puppies. Made from soft rubber, it’s gentle on your dog’s gums but tough enough to withstand chewing. The unique shape also makes it bounce unpredictably, adding an element of fun during playtime.
Why It’s Great:
- Durable but gentle material
- Can be stuffed with treats for added stimulation
- Helps promote healthy chewing habits
2. Nylabone Puppy Chew Teething Rings

Nylabone’s Teething Rings are perfect for puppies with strong chewing instincts. Made from durable nylon, these rings come in different textures to massage your dog’s gums while also helping clean their teeth.
Why It’s Great:
- Multiple textures for soothing gums
- Encourages positive chewing behavior
- Long-lasting durability
3. Benebone Puppy Chew

This bacon-flavored chew toy is irresistible to puppies! Shaped like a wishbone, it’s easy for puppies to grip and gnaw on. While it’s tough, it’s also designed to be gentle on sensitive gums.
Why It’s Great:
- Bacon flavor for added appeal
- Easy-to-hold shape
- Durable, made specifically for teething puppies
4. MAMMOTH Flossy Chews Cottonblend Rope Toy

Rope toys are another excellent option for teething puppies. The MAMMOTH Flossy Chews Rope Toy not only helps relieve teething discomfort but also promotes good dental hygiene by flossing their teeth as they chew.
Why It’s Great:
- Helps clean teeth and gums
- Great for interactive play
- Durable and safe for puppies
5. Petstages Cool Teething Stick

This toy offers a unique solution for teething discomfort—it can be soaked in water and frozen to provide extra cooling relief for your puppy’s gums. The combination of cool temperatures and textured fabric makes it incredibly soothing.
Why It’s Great:
- Freeze for cooling relief
- Soft, textured fabric for gum massage
- Lightweight and easy to carry
6. Outward Hound Invincibles Plush Snake

If your pup loves plush toys but tends to destroy them quickly, the Outward Hound Invincibles Snake is a great option. It’s designed with tough seams and reinforced layers to stand up to rough chewing.
Why It’s Great:
- No stuffing, so it’s safer if ripped
- Squeakers continue to work even after being punctured
- Soft yet durable
7. KONG Puppy Teething Stick

The KONG Teething Stick has a fun, grooved design that is perfect for soothing sore gums. It’s also made from the same durable rubber as the KONG Puppy Toy and can be stuffed with treats or peanut butter for extra entertainment.
Why It’s Great:
- Grooved design massages gums
- Can be filled with treats
- Durable and long-lasting
8. N-Bone Puppy Teething Ring

This edible teething ring is both a treat and a toy. Made from natural ingredients, the N-Bone Teething Ring is designed to be gentle on your puppy’s tummy while satisfying their need to chew.
Why It’s Great:
- Edible and safe
- Satisfies hunger and teething needs
- Gentle on sensitive stomachs
9. ZippyPaws Skinny Peltz No Stuffing Squeaky Plush Toy

If your dog enjoys plush toys but you don’t want the mess of stuffing, this no-stuffing squeaky toy from ZippyPaws is an ideal solution. It’s soft on teething gums and comes with three squeakers for extra fun.
Why It’s Great:
- Soft for gentle gums
- Squeaky and interactive
- No stuffing, no mess
10. Chuckit! Ultra Rubber Ball

For active puppies, the Chuckit! Ultra Rubber Ball is a great way to keep them entertained while also satisfying their chewing needs. Made from durable rubber, this toy is bouncy, tough, and perfect for teething puppies.
Why It’s Great:
- High bounce for energetic play
- Durable rubber material
- Great for outdoor fetch sessions
What to Look for in Teething Toys
While all these toys are great options, the best choice depends on your individual puppy. Consider these factors when picking a toy:
- Safety: The toy should be sturdy and not break into small pieces that could be swallowed.
- Size: Pick a toy that’s the right size for your puppy’s mouth.
- Breed: Some breeds have stronger jaws and need tougher toys.
- Chewing style: Does your pup prefer to gnaw slowly or chomp aggressively?
- Texture: Look for toys with different textures to massage your puppy’s gums.
- Material: Choose non-toxic materials that are safe if ingested.
- Durability: The toy should be able to withstand lots of chewing.
Also read: Dog Breeds Checker
DIY Teething Relief
While store-bought toys are great, there are also some simple DIY options you can try:
- Frozen washcloth: Wet a clean washcloth, twist it into a rope shape, and freeze it. The cold cloth can soothe sore gums.
- Frozen carrot: A large, frozen carrot can make a great temporary chew toy. Just be sure to supervise and remove any small pieces that break off.
- Ice cubes: Some puppies love to chase and chew on ice cubes. It’s a free, easy way to provide some relief.
Remember, these DIY options should be used under supervision and aren’t meant to replace proper teething toys.
Safety First: What to Avoid
While we’ve covered the best toys for teething puppies, it’s equally important to know what to avoid:
- Toys with small parts that could be swallowed
- Extremely hard toys that could damage teeth
- Toys made from toxic materials
- Human items like shoes or socks (this teaches bad habits)
Always check toys regularly for wear and tear, and replace them if they start to break down.
Also read: Top 5 Vet-Approved Homemade Dog Food Recipes
Tips for Using Teething Toys Safely
Remember, teething is just a phase. With the right toys and a little patience, you and your puppy will get through it. Here are some extra tips to help during this time:
- Always supervise your puppy when they’re playing with a new toy.
- Check toys regularly for signs of wear and tear. Replace them if they start to break down.
- Make sure the toy is the right size for your puppy. Toys that are too small can be a choking hazard.
- Rotate your puppy’s toys to keep them interested and prevent overuse of any one toy.
- Consider puppy-proofing your home during this phase
- Clean toys regularly to prevent bacteria buildup.
- Regular vet check-ups to ensure teeth are coming in properly
Common Questions About Puppy Teething
When do puppies start teething? Puppies typically start teething around 3 to 4 months of age. This teething phase can last until they are about 6 to 8 months old when their adult teeth have fully come in.
How can I tell if my puppy is teething? Signs of teething include excessive chewing, drooling, swollen or bleeding gums, and sometimes a decreased appetite. You might also find tiny teeth around your home as your puppy loses their baby teeth.
Can teething toys help with my dog’s dental health? Yes, many teething toys are designed with textures that help clean your puppy’s teeth and gums, reducing plaque and tartar buildup. Regular use of teething toys can contribute to good oral hygiene for your dog.
Are some breeds more prone to teething problems? While all puppies go through teething, some breeds like Chihuahuas and Yorkshire Terriers may have more issues due to their small mouths and crowded teeth. Always consult with your vet if you’re concerned about your puppy’s teething process.
What should I look for when buying a teething toy for my dog? When choosing a teething toy, consider factors like durability, material (non-toxic), texture (to massage gums), and size (to prevent choking). Soft rubber or nylon toys are typically good choices for teething puppies.
Can I give my puppy ice cubes for teething? Ice cubes can provide temporary relief, but they can also pose a choking hazard or damage teeth if chewed too aggressively. Instead, try freezing a wet washcloth or using specially designed freezable teething toys.
Are rawhide chews good for teething puppies? While many dogs enjoy rawhide, it’s not recommended for teething puppies. Rawhide can break into small pieces that pose a choking hazard, and it may be too hard for sensitive puppy teeth and gums.
Can teething cause fever in puppies? Unlike in human babies, teething doesn’t typically cause fever in puppies. If your teething puppy has a fever, it’s best to consult with your veterinarian as it may be a sign of another issue.
Remember, every puppy is different. What works for one might not work for another. It might take some trial and error to find the perfect teething toys for your furry friend.
Teething can be a challenging time for puppies and their owners, but with the right toys, you can make it much easier. These 10 toys offer a variety of textures, shapes, and features to keep your teething puppy happy and healthy. From cooling relief to long-lasting chew toys, there’s something here for every pup.
By providing your puppy with appropriate teething toys, you’re not just saving your furniture – you’re also helping your furry friend develop good chewing habits that will last a lifetime. So go ahead, pick out a few toys from this list, and watch your puppy chew their way to adulthood with a wagging tail!
Remember, the teething phase doesn’t last forever. Before you know it, your puppy will have a full set of adult teeth and will be ready for new adventures. Until then, these toys will help make the teething process as smooth and painless as possible for both you and your furry best friend.
Happy chewing!