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Choosing the right teething toy for your dog can be a daunting task, especially with so many options available.
Dogs typically start teething between three to six months old, and this process can last up to six months.
A good teething toy should be durable and made from non-toxic materials, such as rubber or nylon.
Some teething toys are designed with a specific texture or shape to help soothe sore gums, like those with bumps or ridges.
Choosing a Teething Toy
Puppies love to chew, and teething toys are designed to provide relief for sore gums.
The best toys for a teething puppy provide a firm, flexible surface to bite down on, which eases discomfort and encourages the teething process.
Puppies love soft, stuffed toys, but they're not durable enough to be left alone with your little one for long.
To ensure safety, look for soft toys with reinforced seams, and consider stuffingless toys instead.
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Squeakers need to be removed as soon as possible, and toys with 'add-ons' like eyes, noses, or collars are a choking hazard.
You can also check out the following safety tips to ensure your puppy's teething toy is safe:
- Pick out soft toys which have reinforced, or double stitched, seams.
- Stuffingless toys are safer than stuffed ones.
- Squeakers need to be watched for and removed as soon as they see the light of day.
- Avoid toys with 'add ons' such as eyes, noses, collars etc.
- Avoid toys with poorly attached legs, arms or other appendages.
By choosing a safe and durable teething toy, you can help your puppy feel more comfortable and support their dental development.
Teething Toy Options
Teething toy options abound, and it's great to have so many choices. Kong puppy chew dog toys are a popular pick for their durability and ability to withstand serious chewing. They come in a variety of sizes and can be stuffed with treats for long-lasting play.
For a softer option, plush toys are a favorite among young dogs. They provide comfort and are often easier to chew when puppy teeth are loose. However, they're not the most durable choice and may require replacement if the fabric gets worn or the stuffing starts to come out.
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Kong and Nylabone toys are also great options, offering a range of shapes, sizes, and flavors to suit your pup's individual needs. Some popular Nylabone picks include the Just for Puppies Regular, Chicken Flavor and the Orka Mini Bone. Other brands like PetStages offer similar options, such as their Orka range made from bouncy, non-toxic rubber.
Good Options for Puppies
Puppies love to chew, and teething toys are a great way to keep them occupied and happy. You can find a variety of teething toys that are specifically designed for puppies.
Kong toys are a classic choice for puppies and dogs of all ages. They're made from durable natural rubber and come in different sizes and shapes.
Plush toys are also a favorite among young dogs. They're soft and comforting, but they may not stand up to heavy chewing.
If you're looking for a more durable option, consider a rope toy like the Booda Multi Color 2-Knot Rope Bone Dog Toy. It's made from sturdy material and comes in different sizes and colors.
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Fresh carrots can also be used as teething toys. They're a great alternative to traditional toys and can be given to your puppy raw, lightly steamed, or frozen.
Here are some popular teething toys that are safe and durable:
- Kong Puppy Chew Dog Toy
- Nylabone Teething Ring Puppy Chew Toy
- Booda Multi Color 2-Knot Rope Bone Dog Toy
- Nylabone Just for Puppies Regular, Chicken Flavor
- Petstages ORKA Mini Bone
Remember to always supervise your puppy when giving them teething toys, and to take them away if they become worn or damaged.
Size
Choosing the right size for your puppy's teething toys is crucial to prevent choking hazards and ensure they last long enough to provide relief during teething. A chew toy that's too small can easily get lodged in your puppy's throat.
Small-breed puppies require smaller toys, while larger breeds like German Shepherds need bigger toys that can withstand their jaw strength. If you're unsure of your puppy's size, it's better to opt for a larger toy to prevent it from being torn up immediately.
Paying close attention to your puppy's behavior when introducing new toys is essential, especially if they're not edible. This will help you identify any potential choking hazards or signs of over-exuberance.
Teething Toy Features
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Teething toys can be a lifesaver during heatwaves, keeping your puppy cool and calm. The NWK Cooling Chew Toy is a great example of this, as it's freezable and can help cool your pet down.
Some teething toys are designed to provide a fun and interactive way to clean your dog's teeth. The MAMMOTH Flossy Chew has cotton-blend fibers that floss your dog's teeth as they chew and play.
Freezable teething toys like the NWK Cooling Chew Toy can be a great way to keep your puppy occupied and happy. They're perfect for hot summer days when your dog needs a cool treat.
The MAMMOTH Flossy Chew is also a great option for tug of war, making it a versatile toy that's fun for both you and your dog.
Ingredients or Materials
When choosing a teething toy for your dog, it's essential to consider the ingredients or materials used.
Look for toys made from durable, non-toxic materials such as rubber or nylon. These materials are gentle on your dog's teeth and gums.
Some teething toys are filled with a soft, squishy material called KONG Classic rubber. This material is designed to withstand aggressive chewing and can help soothe sore gums.
A good teething toy should also be easy to clean and disinfect.
Freezable and Cooling Options
Freezable puppy teething toys are better than regular teething toys because they help to cool tender gums.
Having something cool to chew helps with the pain of teething in puppies, just like it does for human babies with warm, red cheeks.
Frozen teething toys can be designed specifically for pups, with treat pocket compartments that can be filled with water, treats, or dog-friendly spreads before being frozen.
Treat pocket compartments can be filled with water, treats or dog-friendly spreads before being frozen.
Simply soak and freeze the bone and cloth for cool textured teething relief.
Specific Teething Toy Examples
The West Paw Design Tux Interactive Dog Toy is a great example of a teething toy for dogs. This toy is made from a non-toxic material called Zogoflex, which is gentle on gums and teeth.
Many dog owners swear by the Kong Classic Dog Toy, which is a durable rubber toy that can be filled with treats or peanut butter to provide relief for sore gums. The Kong is also dishwasher safe.
The Nylabone DuraChew Textured Ring Dog Toy is another popular choice, with its unique textured surface that helps to clean teeth and reduce tartar buildup.
Pet Qwerks Dental Breath Stick
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The Pet Qwerks BarkBone Dental Breath Stick Dog Chew Toy is a great option for pet owners. Made from durable, FDA-compliant nylon, it's easy on your dog's teeth.
This dental stick is tough on doggie breath, thanks to its mint flavoring and sodium copper chlorophyll.
Mammoth Flossy Chew
The Mammoth Flossy Chew is a great option for dogs who love to play tug of war. Its cotton-blend fibers floss your doggo's teeth as they chew and play.
This rope toy is perfect for dogs who enjoy a good game of tug. The cotton-blend fibers are gentle on your dog's teeth and gums.
The Mammoth Flossy Chew is made with durable materials that can withstand even the most enthusiastic chewers.
Znoka Squeak Dog Toy
The Znoka Squeak Dog Toy is a great option for pet owners who want to provide their furry friends with a durable and fun teething toy. It's made for rough play, which means it can withstand even the most enthusiastic chewers.
Its textured surface is perfect for little teeth to grab onto, providing relief from the discomfort of teething.
Teething Symptoms and Care
At around 4 months of age, puppies begin the teething process, which can be a painful time for them.
Their baby teeth will start to fall out and their adult teeth will push through the gums to replace them. This process can be uncomfortable for puppies, and they'll often look for things to chew on to soothe the pain.
Puppies will be chewing on everything they can find, including furniture, shoes, and even your favorite belongings. This is why teething toys are essential for their dental hygiene and overall well-being.
Made of pup-safe materials, teething toys are designed specifically with tiny puppy teeth and gums in mind, making them a great solution for soothing tender gums.
Frequently Asked Questions
What do vets recommend for dogs to chew?
Vets recommend rubber or silicone chew toys that are large enough to prevent choking hazards and have no holes. These pliable materials are gentle on dogs' teeth and provide a safe and durable chewing experience.
What are good treats for teething dogs?
For teething dogs, good options include rubber chew toys, hard treat chews, and frozen treats that provide relief and support healthy teething development. These alternatives to teething gels and other remedies can help soothe sore gums and promote healthy tooth growth.
Sources
- https://www.whole-dog-journal.com/puppies/how-to-choose-the-best-puppy-teething-toys/
- https://www.raisingrascal.com/puppy-teething-toys.html
- https://nymag.com/strategist/article/best-things-for-teething-puppies.html
- https://www.womansday.com/life/pet-care/g31211959/puppy-teething-toys/
- https://heydjangles.com/freezable-puppy-teething-toys/
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