Chomp happens: The best chews for teething puppies

The quick version

• Teething puppies do best with lighter chews that suit smaller mouths and developing teeth.

• Skip very hard options like antlers, hooves and hard bones while those adult teeth are still coming through.

• Kangaroo tendons, jerky and moo tubes are puppy-friendly options to consider, while bully sticks are better saved for puppies over six months.

• Choose a chew that’s appropriate for your puppy’s age, size and chewing style. Every pup is different.

• Always supervise chew time, keep fresh water nearby and remove the chew once it becomes small enough to swallow.

• Teething usually starts at around three to four months, with most adult teeth in place by around six to seven months.

There’s a stage of puppyhood where everything gets assessed on one very important criterion: can I chew it?

Welcome to the wonders of teething.

As those baby teeth make way for adult ones, your puppy is going to be looking for some relief. The best chews for teething puppies are lighter, natural options that suit smaller mouths, always given under supervision.

In other words: this isn’t the time to bring out the heavy-duty stuff.

So, what does make a good puppy chew? Let’s get into it.

Why puppies need to chew during teething

Sore gums come with the territory. Chewing gives puppies an outlet for that discomfort and is a natural part of how they explore the world as they grow.

There’s a lot changing during puppy teething, and when they lose their teeth can differ from one dog to the next.

The important bit? Giving them something appropriate to chew while it’s all happening.

What to avoid while your puppy is teething

Not everything belongs in a puppy’s treat cupboard just yet. At this stage, it’s less about keeping them occupied for as long as possible and more about choosing something appropriate for where they’re at.

For now, avoid:

• Very hard chews like antlers, hooves and hard bones, which can put too much pressure on teething teeth.

• Cooked bones, which can splinter.

• Anything small enough to swallow whole, particularly as it gets worn down.

• Treats intended for older dogs without checking the age guidance first. Not all adult dog treats are suitable for puppies.

There’ll be plenty of time for tougher chewing later.

What are the best chews for teething puppies

So, what can go in the treat cupboard?

Kangaroo liver

Crunchy and easy to snap into small pieces, Kangaroo Liver has a different texture to Kangaroo Jerky and makes a handy reward for puppy training sessions.

Kangaroo jerky

Easy to tear into smaller pieces, Kangaroo Jerky is a handy option when you want something more bite-sized. It works well for early training, too.

Moo tubes

Hollow and easy to get stuck into, Moo Tubes give curious pups a different way to get their chew on.

Bully Sticks

Bully Sticks are one for later in the journey, once your puppy reaches six months.

Made from beef pizzle, bully sticks are a single-ingredient chew that gradually softens as your dog works on it.

Match the treat to your pup

Every puppy chews differently, so age and chewing style are worth keeping in mind. Options grouped by their life stage or chew level can help narrow things down.

How to introduce a chew safely

The chew itself is only half the story. How you offer it matters too. A few simple habits can help make treat time safer from the start.

• Choose the right size. It should be too large for your puppy to swallow whole and comfortable for them to hold.

• Keep watch. Stay nearby, particularly with something new, so you can see how your puppy handles it.

• Know when it’s done. As it gets worn down, check it regularly and take it away once it becomes small enough to gulp.

• Keep water nearby. Make sure there’s always fresh water available.

Rotating between a couple of options can add some variety and help you figure out what your puppy enjoys most.

Finding the best chews for your teething puppy

Teething puppies have a lot going on. New teeth coming in, old ones heading out and a very strong opinion that something should be in their mouth at all times.

Thankfully, this stage doesn’t last forever.

Give them a little time to work things out, and before you know it, those baby teeth will be history.

Promise.

Ready to find something that suits your little one? Explore our range of puppy-friendly treats.

No two puppies are exactly alike. If you’re unsure what’s right for your pup’s age, size or individual needs, or you have concerns about their teeth, gums or teething, chat with your vet for tailored advice. The information here is general only and isn’t a substitute for veterinary advice.

FAQ

How can I help my puppy with teething?

Give them appropriate things to chew, keep an eye on them during chew time and choose options that suit their age, size and chewing style. A little variety can help too, especially while you’re figuring out what they enjoy.

Most importantly, be patient. Teething is a big change for a little mouth, but it won’t last forever.

How long does puppy teething last?

Puppy teething usually gets underway at around three to four months, with most adult teeth in place by around six to seven months. There’s some wiggle room, though. Like most things with puppies, they don’t all run to exactly the same schedule.

Is it normal for puppies to lose their appetite while teething?

It can happen. Tender gums may make eating a little less appealing for some pups, particularly when there’s a lot going on in their mouth.

If your puppy stops eating, seems unwell or you’re worried about a change in appetite, have a chat with your vet.

Is a little bleeding normal when puppies are teething?

You might occasionally spot a small amount of blood as those baby teeth loosen and make their exit. A little can happen during the teething process, but persistent bleeding, swelling or obvious pain is one for your vet.

Do puppies swallow their baby teeth?

Sometimes! Baby teeth are tiny, and puppies can swallow them while eating or chewing without you ever noticing.

So if you’ve been waiting to collect a complete puppy tooth set, you may be waiting a while.

Does puppy teething affect behaviour?

For some pups, yes. Teething can come with extra mouthiness, restlessness or distraction, which isn’t particularly surprising when you consider what’s happening inside that little mouth.

Keeping things consistent and giving them appropriate outlets for all that chomping can help make the teething months a little easier for everyone.