- Why Puppies Need to Chew
- Safe Chew Options for Teething Puppies
- Chews to Avoid During Teething
- Extra Tips for Managing Puppy Teething
Puppy teething usually begins around 3 weeks of age and continues until about 6 months old. You may start noticing chewing behaviour as early as 12 weeks, when your pup’s baby teeth begin falling out and adult teeth start pushing through.
During this stage, it’s perfectly normal for your puppy to chew anything they can reach—including furniture, shoes, or fingers!
Why Puppies Need to Chew
Chewing helps relieve the pain and irritation that comes with teething. But it’s also an important part of your puppy’s development. Chewing:
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Soothes sore gums
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Helps baby teeth fall out naturally
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Encourages proper jaw and tooth development
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Provides mental and physical stimulation
If puppies don’t have suitable things to chew on, they’ll likely find things that aren’t safe—so it’s important to guide their behaviour early.
Safe Chew Options for Teething Puppies
1. Soft Rubber Toys
Teething-specific toys from brands like KONG Puppy and Rogz are gentle yet tough enough for sore gums. Look for toys designed for puppies under 6 months old.
2. Freezable Chew Toys
Toys you can freeze help cool and soothe irritated gums. You can also freeze a clean, damp cloth for a DIY chew.
3. Edible Puppy Chews
Opt for dental chews made for young dogs. These are softer than adult versions and easier on developing teeth. Always check the age recommendation on the packaging.
4. Frozen Carrots
Frozen carrot sticks (peeled and cut into puppy-safe portions) are a natural, healthy chew with cooling relief.
5. Dry Puppy Kibble
Good-quality kibble provides nutritional support while encouraging gentle chewing. The early months of your puppy’s life are essential for healthy growth and development. That’s why Bobtail® 2-in-1 Milky Bones with Calcium are made with easily digestible milk protein—to help your pup get the nourishment he needs to grow into a strong, happy South African dog.
Always supervise your puppy when they’re chewing, no matter how “safe” the item may seem.
Chews to Avoid During Teething
Avoid giving your puppy anything that could be too hard or risky for their sensitive teeth and gums. That includes:
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Cooked or raw bones
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Antlers and hooves
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Hard nylon toys or adult dog chews
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Rawhide (which can pose a choking hazard)
If you’re unsure whether a toy or chew is safe, ask your vet or try our AI Vet tool for real-time advice.
Extra Tips for Managing Puppy Teething
Here’s how to keep teething under control:
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Rotate safe chew toys to keep things interesting.
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Redirect chewing away from household items using treats and praise.
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Keep shoes, cords, and valuables out of reach.
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Use a soft toothbrush to start a gentle dental routine early.
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If your pup avoids food, try soaking kibble in warm water for easier eating.
Some puppies experience mild discomfort, while others breeze through teething. Either way, consistent training and the right tools can make the process smoother for both of you.
Teething is a normal—and temporary—part of your puppy’s development. By offering safe, age-appropriate chews, you’ll help ease discomfort while setting your dog up for healthy habits later in life.
