Best Chews for Teething Puppies: What's Safe and What to Avoid

Teething is one of the most challenging stages of puppyhood — for your pup and for your furniture. Between 3 and 7 months of age, puppies lose their baby teeth and their adult teeth push through, causing discomfort, itching, and an overwhelming urge to chew everything.

The good news? The right chew can soothe sore gums, keep your puppy occupied, and support healthy dental development. Here's what you need to know.

Why Do Puppies Need to Chew?

Chewing is a natural and necessary behaviour for teething puppies. It helps relieve the pressure and discomfort caused by emerging adult teeth, and it also supports jaw development. Without appropriate outlets, puppies will find their own — usually your shoes, sofa, or skirting boards.

What to Look for in a Teething Chew

Not all chews are suitable for puppies. When choosing a teething chew, look for:

• Softness — Puppy teeth and gums are delicate. Avoid anything too hard that could crack a tooth.
• Natural ingredients — Avoid artificial preservatives, colours, and flavourings.
• Appropriate size — Always match the chew size to your puppy's breed and weight.
• Digestibility — Choose chews that break down safely if swallowed in small pieces.

Best Chews for Teething Puppies

 

1. Veggie Chews

Vegetable-based chews are a gentle, low-calorie option that's ideal for puppies with sensitive stomachs. They're typically softer in texture and come in a range of flavours that puppies love. Look for chews made from sweet potato, carrot, or beetroot for a natural, nutritious option.

👉 Shop our Veggie Chews

2. Long-Lasting Natural Chews

For puppies who are enthusiastic chewers, a longer-lasting natural chew can keep them occupied and out of mischief. Always supervise your puppy with any chew and remove it once it becomes small enough to swallow whole.

👉 Shop Long Lasting Treats

Chews to Avoid for Teething Puppies

• Rawhide — Can splinter, cause blockages, and is often treated with chemicals. Not recommended for puppies.
• Bones (cooked) — Cooked bones can splinter dangerously. Always avoid these.
• Very hard chews — If you can't dent it with your thumbnail, it's too hard for a puppy.
• Chews with artificial additives — Stick to natural, single or minimal ingredient options.

Tips for Supervising Your Teething Puppy

• Always supervise your puppy with a new chew until you know how they interact with it.
• Remove the chew once it becomes small enough to swallow in one piece.
• Rotate chews to keep things interesting and prevent boredom.
• Store chews in a cool, dry place to keep them fresh.

Final Thoughts

Teething doesn't have to be a nightmare. With the right chews, you can keep your puppy comfortable, your belongings intact, and build healthy chewing habits that last a lifetime. Always choose natural, appropriately sized chews and supervise your pup — especially in the early stages.

Browse our full range of natural puppy chews at Pawtastic Munchies — made with simple, quality ingredients your pup will love.