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Puppy teeth are sharp. And when those baby chompers start falling out, your shoes, baseboards, and fingers can quickly become targets. The fix? The best chew toys for teething puppies are designed to soothe sore gums, distract destructive instincts, and keep your pup (and your belongings) safe.
Table of Contents
| Best Overall | Best Edible | Best Cooling |
|---|---|---|
 |  |  |
| KONG Classic Puppy | N-Bone Teething Rings | Petstages Cool Stick |
| View on Amazon | View on Amazon | View on Amazon |
| View on Chewy | View on Chewy | View on Chewy |
| Read Review | Read Review | Read Review |
Why Are Puppy Teething Toys So Important?
Teething isn’t just uncomfortable for your puppy—it can quickly become destructive. Without proper chew outlets, those sharp little teeth will target anything that feels good on sore gums, including shoes, kids’ toys, and even your baseboards.
This stage is also when your puppy is learning boundaries. The right chew toys for teething puppies do more than soothe pain. They:
- Redirect destructive chewing
- Keep your puppy occupied and mentally engaged
- Help establish healthy, lifelong habits
Think of chew toys as both a comfort and a training tool. When your puppy learns to focus on the best puppy chews early, they’re far less likely to grow into an adult dog with destructive chewing habits.
In the sections ahead, we’ll walk through what to look for in the best chew toys for teething puppies, along with our top picks for every type of chewer, from small breeds to aggressive chompers.
For a full breakdown of the teething process, see our puppy teething timeline.
6 Tips For Choosing The Best Chew Toys For Teething Puppies
Choosing the right teething toy is about more than keeping your shoes safe. The best puppy chews are designed to soothe sore gums, redirect destructive chewing, and support healthy habits that last into adulthood.
Here’s what to keep in mind when shopping for your pup:
1. Material
Look for toys made from safe, non-toxic materials like BPA-free rubber, nylon, or soft rubber blends. Some toys can even be frozen for added gum relief. (For more cooling ideas, check out our DIY frozen dog treats.)
2. Durability
Puppy jaws are surprisingly strong. A teething toy should bend without breaking apart. Fragile toys can splinter, creating choking hazards and costly vet visits.
3. Size
Always match toy size to your puppy’s breed and age. Too small = choking risk. Too large = no gum relief. Your dog swallowing the wrong-sized toy can lead to costly vet bills, or even worse.
4. Texture
The best toys offer soft but firm resistance. A mix of textures—like ridges, bumps, or plush overlays—helps massage gums and keeps puppies engaged.
5. Flavored vs. Treat-Fillable
Some toys come pre-flavored, while others are designed to be filled with peanut butter, kibble, or frozen treats. Flavored toys may hold attention longer, but fillable toys let you control the ingredients. (We’ve got a list of safe human foods for dogs if you want healthy fillers.)
6. Crate-Safe Chews
If you’re crate training, choose durable rubber toys that won’t splinter. Avoid leaving frozen toys in the crate for extended periods — they can be too hard on gums if chewed aggressively.
Pro Tip: Always supervise playtime. Even the best chew toys for teething puppies can break down over time, and it’s important to replace them before they become unsafe.
Choosing Toys By Age
Your puppy’s chewing needs change quickly as they grow. Matching toys to their age helps ensure both comfort and safety.
6–8 Weeks Old
At this stage, puppies are just starting to teethe. Their mouths are tiny, and their gums are tender.
- Stick to small, gentle toys made of soft rubber or nylon.
- A starter pack like the Nylabone Puppy Starter Kit can help.
- Avoid leaving harder toys in the crate at this age. A small KONG Puppy is a safe option.
2–4 Months Old
Teeth are getting sharper, and your arms might be feeling it.
- Introduce flavored teething toys like natural teething rings.
- Stuffable toys (like KONGs with frozen, dog-safe peanut butter) are especially helpful.
- This is a good time to start shaping healthy chewing habits.
4–6 Months Old
This is when many puppies start losing their baby teeth.
- Size up to medium toys if your puppy is growing fast.
- Rotate toys often to prevent boredom.
- For larger breeds, this is when chew strength really ramps up.
Pro tip: training redirection is key — see our guide on how to stop dogs and puppies from biting.
7–9 Months Old
This is a critical growth period. Smaller toys won’t hold up anymore. This is especially true if you have a large breed like a Labrador whose toy needs grow as they age.
- Choose larger, more durable toys that match your dog’s growing jaw strength.
- By now, puppies should have lost most of their baby teeth.
10–12 Months Old
Teething is almost over.
- Your pup will have a nearly full set of adult teeth.
- Transition to adult chew toys designed for longevity.
1 Year+
Congratulations — you’ve made it through the teething gauntlet.
- Now you can buy toys with a longer shelf life and a sturdier build.
- Size still matters: avoid toys that are too small and could become choking hazards.
What To Avoid With Puppy Teething Toys
Not every toy on the shelf is safe for teething pups. Skip these common troublemakers:
- Cheap knockoffs: Poor-quality toys can splinter or shred into dangerous pieces.
- Toys with BPA: Always check labels and stick to BPA-free materials.
- Kid-lookalike toys: If it resembles your child’s stuffed animals or playthings, your puppy may not know the difference.
- Most plush toys: They’re fun for fetch or cuddles but don’t provide real teething relief and often end up shredded.
Best Chew Toys For Teething Puppies
These are some of the best options as your puppy starts to grow. Each of these toys can help during the training and teething process. We’d recommend that you buy several of them and see what your pup responds to best.
Best Overall: KONG Puppy Teething Chew Toy Review
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The KONG Puppy is one of the most popular and reliable chew toys for teething puppies. Made of durable natural rubber, it’s soft enough to be gentle on sore gums but tough enough to handle vigorous chewing. The hollow center can be stuffed with treats or frozen snacks, keeping your puppy busy and comfortable for hours.
- Durable design: Long-lasting rubber stands up to heavy chewing.
- Soothes gums: Provides relief during the toughest teething days.
- Interactive play: Fill with peanut butter, kibble, or frozen goodies.
- Multiple sizes: From tiny breeds to large pups.
- Trusted brand: Over 40 years of proven durability.
Best For: Puppies of all sizes, especially during crate training or solo play.
Tester’s Note: Several of our team members have found the KONG Puppy to be nearly indestructible and a lifesaver for redirecting chewing away from shoes and furniture. Stuffed and frozen, it’s one of the best chew toys for teething puppies that also doubles as a training tool.
Price
Best Edible: Chicken Flavored N-Bone Puppy Teething Rings Review
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The N-Bone Puppy Teething Rings are one of the few edible chews made specifically for teething puppies. Shaped like a ring, they’re easy for small mouths to grip and provide both chewing relief and a tasty reward.
- Edible & digestible: Safe to chew and swallow.
- Fortified with DHA & Omega-3s: Supports brain and eye development.
- No corn, wheat, or soy: Cleaner ingredients than many edible chews.
- Tasty chicken flavor: Keeps puppies coming back for more.
Best For: Puppies who need a safe, edible chew to help with teething discomfort.
Tester’s Note: These chews don’t last as long as rubber toys, but they’re excellent for supervised chewing sessions. Puppies love the flavor, and the ring shape is ideal for soothing sore gums.
Price
- Bag of 6 rings: $7.99
Best Cooling: Petstages Cool Teething Stick for Dogs Review
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The Petstages Cool Teething Stick is designed specifically to soothe sore puppy gums. Its unique fabric shell can be soaked in water and frozen, turning it into a cooling chew that reduces inflammation and numbs discomfort during the worst teething days.
- Made for teething relief: Frozen texture eases pain while keeping puppies engaged.
- Gentle on gums: Softer than hard rubber or nylon toys, making it safe for young mouths.
- Lightweight design: Easy for small puppies to carry and chew.
- Budget-friendly: Affordable enough to keep spares in rotation.
Best For: Puppies that need extra cooling comfort during the peak teething stage.
Tester’s Note: While we haven’t tested this toy with our own dogs yet, many puppy parents report it’s a go-to freezer-friendly option. It won’t last as long as a rubber KONG, but it’s one of the best chew toys for teething puppies to rotate in when your pup needs quick gum relief.
Price
Best For Moderate Chewers: Benebone Puppy 2-Pack Dental Chew/Wishbone Chew Toys Review
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The Benebone Puppy Wishbone offers a flavored, ergonomic design that makes chewing both fun and comfortable. Made in the USA, these chews are flavored with real bacon, chicken, or peanut butter, which keeps puppies engaged.
- Ergonomic wishbone design: Easy for puppies to grip.
- Gentle formula: Softer than adult Benebones, made for puppy teeth.
- Multiple flavors: Bacon, chicken, and peanut butter.
- Durable but not edible: Made to last, not to be swallowed.
Best For: Puppies with a moderate chewing style who need extra flavor to stay interested.
Tester’s Note: Our pups loved the scent and flavor of these bones. They don’t crumble like edible chews, but because they’re not edible, we only recommend them for supervised play.
Price
Best For Larger Breeds: West Paw Zogoflex Small Tux Tough Treat Dispensing Dog Chew Toy Review
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The West Paw Zogoflex Tux is a durable, interactive toy that’s perfect for large breed puppies with strong jaws. It can be filled with treats or frozen goodies, offering both mental stimulation and teething relief.
- Tough design: Holds up to powerful chewers.
- Treat-dispensing: Can be filled with snacks or frozen for gum relief.
- Safe & eco-friendly: Made with BPA-free, recyclable materials.
- Dishwasher-safe: Easy to clean.
- Guaranteed against damage: Backed by West Paw’s strong warranty.
Best For: Large breed puppies who need something stronger than a standard chew toy.
Tester’s Note: While it’s a bit heavier than other toys, this is one of the best puppy chews for keeping large breed pups busy. The guarantee also makes it a safe investment for dogs that destroy most toys.
Price
Best For Soft Chewers: fabdog Hedgehog faball Squeaky Dog Toy Review
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The fabdog Hedgehog faball is a plush, squeaky toy that doubles as a cuddle buddy and a gentle chew for teething pups. With its soft cotton covering and hidden squeaker, it’s designed for comfort and play rather than heavy-duty chewing.
- Soft and lightweight: Easy for puppies to carry.
- Plush texture: Provides a gentle gum massage during teething.
- Squeaker inside: Keeps play sessions engaging.
- Machine-washable: Simple to keep clean after slobbery play.
Best For: Puppies who love softer toys for comfort but still need something to chew on.
Tester’s Note: Our dog Georgie carried this toy everywhere — it became his favorite nap-time buddy and lasted nearly six months before wearing out. While it’s not designed for aggressive chewers, it’s one of the best puppy chews for light chewers and cuddlers.
Price
- Starts at $14.02
More Chew Toys For Teething Puppies
While the toys above are our top picks, there are plenty of other great options worth considering. These additional toys may not have made our core winners list, but they’re still safe, effective, and popular choices for soothing sore gums and keeping destructive chewing under control.
Depending on your puppy’s size, chewing style, and personality, one of these may end up being their favorite.
KONG Puppy Goodie Bone Dog Toy Review
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The KONG Puppy Goodie Bone is a softer version of the classic bone shape, designed just for teething puppies. Its ends can be stuffed with treats or frozen snacks, making it both interactive and soothing for sore gums.
- Made from KONG’s natural rubber: Gentle but durable for puppy chewing.
- Treat-dispensing design: Keeps puppies busy and mentally stimulated.
- Irregular bounce: Adds extra fun during playtime and fetch.
- Budget-friendly: Affordable enough to keep multiples on hand.
Best For: Puppies who need a chew-and-treat combo toy that works both for solo chewing and interactive play.
Tester’s Note: We found the rubber ends massage gums effectively, and the treat slots make it easy to keep puppies entertained. It’s not quite as long-lasting as the KONG Classic, but it’s still one of the best chew toys for teething puppies under 9 months old.
Price
JW Pet Hol-ee Roller Dog Toy Review
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The JW Pet Hol-ee Roller is part chew toy, part puzzle. Its rubber lattice design makes it easy to grip, bounce, and stuff with treats or bones for added engagement.
- Interactive design: Open structure lets you hide treats inside.
- Durable rubber: Stands up to chewing while staying flexible.
- Lightweight: Easy for puppies to carry and chase.
- Easy to clean: Rinses quickly thanks to its open shape.
Best For: Puppies who enjoy interactive play and need both mental and physical stimulation.
Tester’s Note: Georgie loved rolling this toy around to get at hidden treats. The rubber had just enough give to feel satisfying without wearing down too fast. It quickly became a favorite fetch toy, as the unpredictable bounce added an extra layer of fun.
Price
West Paw Qwizl Tough Treat Dispensing Dog Chew Toy Review
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The West Paw Qwizl is a puzzle-style chew toy that keeps puppies occupied while satisfying their chewing instincts. Its elongated, hollow shape is perfect for holding treats, peanut butter, or long-lasting chews.
- Durable Zogoflex material: Tough yet gentle on puppy gums.
- Treat-dispensing design: Holds snacks securely for longer play.
- Curved shape: Easy for puppies to grip with their paws.
- Dishwasher-safe: Simple to clean and sanitize.
- Eco-friendly: Non-toxic, recyclable, and made in the USA.
Best For: Puppies who need extra mental stimulation along with chewing relief.
Tester’s Note: Georgie enjoyed the challenge of this toy, though sometimes the treats were tricky to get out. The durability and ease of cleaning made it one of our favorite puzzle-style chews, even if it required a little help from us during play.
Price
Mammoth Pet Products Flossy Chews Color Monkey Fist Ball with Rope Ends Review
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The Mammoth Flossy Chews Rope Toy combines chewing relief with interactive play. Made from durable cotton-poly yarns, it’s designed for tugging, tossing, and gentle chewing—all while helping clean your puppy’s teeth.
- Durable rope design: Knotted for extra strength.
- Promotes dental health: Fibers help reduce plaque and tartar.
- Versatile play: Works for tug-of-war, fetch, or solo chewing.
- Multiple sizes: Suitable for small to large breed puppies.
Best For: Puppies who love tugging games and rope textures.
Tester’s Note: Georgie quickly took to the rope ends, which provided satisfying resistance for his sore gums. The natural fraying over time actually added extra texture for chewing, though we kept a close eye to ensure he didn’t swallow loose fibers.
Rope toys are a popular and versatile option for puppy teething. They offer a range of benefits, and when used correctly, they can relieve your puppy’s sore gums while also promoting dental health and satisfying their natural chewing instincts. However, it’s critical you supervise playtime closely; the fibers, if ingested, can create intestinal issues.
Price
- Starts at $7.49
Pupford Himalayan Yak Cheese Review
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The Pupford Yak Cheese Chews are a natural, long-lasting alternative to rubber toys. Made from a simple blend of yak and cow milk, salt, and lime juice, they offer a firm texture that helps puppies satisfy their chewing instincts while easing teething discomfort.
- All-natural ingredients: Free from artificial additives.
- Long-lasting: Hard texture stands up to extended chewing.
- Low-calorie: A healthier chew option than many edible treats.
- Versatile: Leftover pieces can be microwaved into crunchy puffs.
Best For: Puppies that need a long-lasting edible chew to redirect chewing away from furniture or shoes.
Tester’s Note: Georgie stayed busy with these chews for days at a time. We loved that they provided relief from teething pain while also keeping him occupied. As with any edible chew, supervision is a must—especially once the chew gets small enough to become a choking risk.
Price
- Starts at $12.98 (3-pack)
5 Tips For Caring For Puppy Teething Toys
Caring for teething toys for puppies is essential to ensure they remain effective, safe, and free from harmful bacteria. Proper maintenance not only extends the life of the toys but also contributes to your puppy’s overall health and well-being.
1. Inspect Regularly
Check toys often for wear and tear. Look for frayed edges, cracks, or loose parts. If a toy starts breaking down, replace it immediately to avoid choking hazards.
2. Keep Them Clean
Puppy toys collect drool and bacteria fast. Wash toys with mild soap and water or follow the manufacturer’s instructions. Some rubber toys are even dishwasher-safe. (Related: best dog-safe cleaning products).
3. Rotate Toys
Don’t let your pup get bored. Rotate a few toys in and out each week to keep playtime exciting and give you a chance to clean the ones not in use.
4. Supervise Playtime
Never assume a toy is 100% safe. Supervision is key, especially with edible chews or toys that can splinter.
5. Store Properly
Keep toys in a cool, dry place when not in use. Leaving them outside can weaken materials and expose them to bacteria.
Pro Tip: Chew toys aren’t just for solo play. Engaging with your puppy strengthens your bond and helps you monitor their chewing habits.
Protecting Your Puppy Beyond Teething
Chew toys can save your furniture, but they’re not a fix for everything puppies get into. From swallowing the wrong toy to unexpected accidents and illnesses, vet bills can add up quickly during the first year (and throughout your pup’s lifetime).
You may want to consider investing in pet insurance. The earlier you sign up, the better — most providers don’t cover pre-existing conditions, so it’s important to get protection before health concerns arise.
If you’re welcoming a new pup, see our guide to the best pet insurance providers and compare plans before the teething stage turns into something more serious.
Frequently Asked Questions
Still not sure which toy is best for your teething puppy? Here are some of the most commonly asked questions we see from new owners of young dogs. If you don’t see yours here, hit us up in our comments.
Are Puppy Toys Breed-Specific?
Not really. Most toys can be used for any breed, but size matters. A toy that’s perfect for a Yorkie won’t be safe for a German Shepherd. Always choose the correct size for your pup’s mouth and chewing strength.
Can I Use A Toy While Crate Training?
Yes. In fact, a chew toy can make crate training much smoother. Just make sure it’s a durable, safe option that won’t splinter if left alone.
What Are The Best Chew Toys For Crates?
Rubber toys like KONGs are a favorite. They’re soft enough for sore gums, tough enough to last, and can be stuffed with treats to keep your puppy busy. Frozen, dog-safe peanut butter works especially well.
Which Toy Should I Get If I Have A Small Breed Puppy?
Choose small or extra-small toys made for puppies under 15 pounds. A Pomeranian or Chihuahua won’t be able to handle a medium-sized chew safely.
Which Toy Should I Get If I Have A Large Breed Puppy?
Larger breeds grow quickly, so start with medium toys and be ready to size up fast. Avoid anything too small that could be swallowed.
From Teething To Tough Chewers
Your puppy won’t stay small forever. Once teething is behind you, their chewing needs change, but the urge to chew never really goes away for many breeds. That’s when it’s time to look for toys built for strength and long-term play.
Check out our guide to the best dog toys for starters. We also review the best toys for giant breeds and the best indestructible dog toys for aggressive chewers to help you find durable favorites that will keep your dog happy well into adulthood.
What chew toys worked best for your teething pup? Share your experiences and favorite finds in the comments below. Your tips could help another new puppy parent get through this stage a little easier.
