Puppies love to chew; it’s how they explore the world, soothe teething discomfort, and burn off energy. But when they get their teeth on your favorite shoes or furniture, it’s another story. That’s why finding the best chew toys for puppies is essential, not only to protect your belongings but to keep your furry friend happy, healthy, and mentally stimulated. In this detailed guide, we’ll explore durable, safe, and fun chew toys that stand the test of time, while helping you understand why they’re so important for your pup’s growth and well-being.
Understanding Why Puppies Need Chew Toys
Before diving into the best chew toys for puppies, it’s important to know why chewing is a natural and necessary behavior. Puppies go through a teething phase between 3 to 6 months, during which their gums can be sore and irritated. Chewing helps relieve that discomfort while strengthening their jaw muscles and keeping their teeth clean.
Beyond teething, chewing provides mental stimulation and helps prevent boredom-related behavior problems like biting, barking, or digging. The key is to provide toys that are safe, durable, and appropriately sized for your puppy’s age and breed.
What Makes a Good Puppy Chew Toy?
Not every toy labeled “chew toy” is suitable for puppies. The best chew toys for puppies are made from non-toxic materials, have an appropriate texture for young teeth, and are durable enough to withstand regular chewing without breaking into harmful pieces. They should also be engaging, encouraging your puppy to keep chewing the toy rather than your furniture.
Look for chew toys that:
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Are made from safe, high-quality rubber or nylon.
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Have some flexibility (not rock-hard).
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Are easy to clean.
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Offer interactive or treat-dispensing features for extra fun.
With these factors in mind, let’s explore the 10 best chew toys for puppies that last.
1. KONG Puppy Toy – The Classic Favorite
When it comes to durability and quality, the KONG Puppy Toy is unbeatable. Designed specifically for puppies’ developing teeth, it’s made from soft yet resilient rubber that can withstand enthusiastic chewing. What makes it one of the best chew toys for puppies is its versatility. You can fill it with treats, peanut butter, or kibble to keep your pup entertained for hours.
The unpredictable bounce makes playtime exciting, while the chewing action soothes teething pain. Many pet owners find that their dogs continue to use their KONG well into adulthood, proving its lasting value.
2. Nylabone Puppy Teething Rings - Gentle but Durable
Nylabone has long been trusted by pet parents, and their Puppy Teething Rings are a prime example of why. These rings are soft enough for young teeth but sturdy enough to last through months of chewing. Their textured surface helps clean teeth and massage sore gums, reducing plaque buildup even at an early age.
Unlike plush toys that get destroyed in minutes, Nylabone rings hold up remarkably well. They also come in various flavors, making them irresistible to puppies.
3. Benebone Puppy Wishbone - Flavored for Fun
The Benebone Puppy Wishbone stands out among the best chew toys for puppies because of its simple yet effective design. It’s made from a softer nylon than the adult version, making it safe for tiny teeth. What puppies love most are the natural flavors, real bacon, chicken, or peanut that run throughout the entire toy.
Its ergonomic wishbone shape allows puppies to grip it easily and chew from different angles. It’s perfect for independent play and helps build jaw strength during the teething stage.
4. West Paw Zogoflex Hurley Bone - Eco-Friendly Strength
If you’re looking for a chew toy that’s environmentally friendly and nearly indestructible, the West Paw Zogoflex Hurley Bone is a great choice. Made in the USA from recyclable materials, it’s both safe and sustainable. The toy has just the right blend of softness and toughness, firm enough to satisfy a strong chewer, yet gentle on growing teeth.
It also floats, making it ideal for water-loving puppies. Whether for fetch, tug-of-war, or solo chewing, this toy’s durability easily earns it a spot among the best chew toys for puppies.
5. Nylabone Puppy Chew Freezer Toy - Cooling Comfort for Teething
Teething can make puppies restless and uncomfortable. The Nylabone Puppy Chew Freezer Toy offers a simple solution: you can freeze it to provide soothing relief for sore gums. Made from soft, chew-resistant material, it gives a cooling sensation that reduces inflammation and helps puppies relax.
The textured design promotes dental health, and the fun shapes like keys or bones make it easy for your pup to grip and chew. It’s one of the most practical chew toys for managing teething discomfort naturally.
6. KONG Puppy Teething Stick – For Dental Health and Fun
Another gem from KONG, the Puppy Teething Stick is specifically engineered for oral care. The ridges along the stick help clean teeth and massage gums while your puppy chews. Made with KONG’s soft puppy rubber, it’s durable but not too hard, striking the perfect balance for teething dogs.
You can even smear the grooves with peanut butter or dental paste to encourage chewing and improve hygiene. Because of its clever design and long lifespan, it’s often ranked among the best chew toys for puppies.
7. Petstages Cool Teething Stick – A Sensory Soother
Puppies are drawn to toys that offer different textures, and the Petstages Cool Teething Stick delivers exactly that. This colorful toy can be soaked in water and frozen, creating a soothing chew for irritated gums. Its fabric-covered surface gives a satisfying crunch while staying gentle on puppy teeth.
It’s lightweight and easy for small breeds to carry, toss, and chew. Though softer than rubber toys, it’s surprisingly durable and ideal for supervised play during the teething months.
8. Goughnuts Puppy Ring – Built for Extreme Chewers
If you have a puppy that seems to destroy every toy within minutes, the Goughnuts Puppy Ring might be your answer. Specifically made for strong chewers, this toy uses a softer rubber formula than the adult version, making it safe but nearly indestructible.
The circular shape encourages continuous chewing and rolling play. Goughnuts toys are also designed with a safety indicator; if your pup chews down to the red inner layer, it’s time for a replacement. This smart design ensures safe, long-term chewing for even the most energetic pups.
9. Multipet Chilly Bone – The Ultimate Freezable Chew Toy
The Multipet Chilly Bone combines the benefits of a chew toy with the soothing effect of a teething aid. Simply wet the bone, place it in the freezer, and let your puppy enjoy a cool, gum-relieving experience. It’s made from durable canvas that withstands regular gnawing while providing a refreshing texture.
This toy is especially useful during hot weather or teething phases. It keeps your puppy occupied while promoting healthy chewing habits, making it one of the best chew toys for puppies who need both comfort and durability.
10. SmartPetLove Snuggle Puppy with Heartbeat – Comfort Beyond Chewing
While not a traditional chew toy, the SmartPetLove Snuggle Puppy deserves a spot on this list because it addresses another crucial need, emotional comfort. Many puppies struggle with separation anxiety when adjusting to a new home. This plush toy mimics the warmth and heartbeat of a mother dog, helping your pup feel calm and secure.
Although it’s not built for heavy chewing, many owners pair it with tougher chew toys to create a balanced setup, comfort and play in one. By reducing stress, it prevents destructive chewing caused by anxiety.
How to Choose the Right Chew Toy for Your Puppy
Choosing the best chew toys for puppies depends on your dog’s breed, age, and chewing style. Small breeds like Chihuahuas or Pomeranians may prefer softer rubber or fabric toys, while larger breeds like Labradors need tougher materials to prevent early wear.
Always supervise your puppy during playtime, especially with new toys. Check regularly for damage, and replace toys that show signs of fraying, cracking, or breaking apart. It’s also helpful to rotate different types of toys, rubber, nylon, plush, and treat-dispensing to keep your puppy engaged and mentally stimulated.
The Importance of Safe Materials
Puppies explore with their mouths, so safety should always come first. Avoid toys with small detachable parts that could become choking hazards, and stay away from low-quality plastics that may contain harmful chemicals. The best chew toys for puppies are usually labeled BPA-free, phthalate-free, and made from non-toxic materials.
Brands like KONG, West Paw, and Nylabone invest heavily in safety testing, ensuring their toys meet pet industry standards. A few extra rand spent on a quality toy is well worth your puppy’s health and your peace of mind.
Maintaining and Cleaning Puppy Chew Toys
Chew toys can quickly accumulate dirt, saliva, and bacteria, so regular cleaning is essential. Most rubber or nylon toys can be washed with warm water and mild soap, or even placed in the dishwasher if the manufacturer allows it. Plush toys should be machine-washed frequently, especially if your pup uses them for comfort or sleep.
Keeping toys clean not only protects your puppy’s health but also extends the toy’s lifespan. It ensures that your investment in the best chew toys for puppies truly pays off.
How Chew Toys Help with Training and Behavior
Beyond teething relief, chew toys can be powerful tools in training. Puppies often bite out of excitement or frustration, but redirecting their attention to a toy teaches them what’s acceptable to chew. Chew toys also serve as great rewards during obedience training, helping your pup associate good behavior with positive reinforcement.
Interactive chew toys, such as treat-dispensing KONGs or puzzle feeders, challenge your puppy’s brain and help reduce boredom. A mentally stimulated puppy is less likely to engage in destructive behavior, making chew toys an essential part of raising a well-behaved dog.
The Long-Term Benefits of Durable Chew Toys
Investing in long-lasting chew toys pays off in multiple ways. First, you’ll save money by not constantly replacing destroyed toys. Second, your puppy’s dental health benefits from consistent chewing, which reduces tartar buildup and keeps their teeth strong. Third, safe and durable toys create a foundation for healthy chewing habits that carry into adulthood.
When your puppy learns early on what’s appropriate to chew, they’re less likely to damage furniture, shoes, or other valuables later in life. The best chew toys for puppies essentially guide them toward good behavior while making the process enjoyable.
Final Thoughts
Every puppy deserves toys that are safe, fun, and built to last. From the classic KONG Puppy Toy to the Goughnuts Ring and the soothing Nylabone Freezer Toy, there’s something for every chewing style and personality. The key is to provide variety, supervise playtime, and maintain cleanliness to ensure your puppy’s health and happiness.
Choosing the best chew toys for puppies isn’t just about finding something durable, it’s about giving your growing dog a sense of comfort, stimulation, and security. With the right toys, your puppy can channel their natural instincts in healthy ways, building strong teeth, a calm mind, and a happy heart.