Before you rush to buy chew toys, it’s important to understand why puppies bite everything in sight — from shoes to furniture legs. Biting isn’t bad behavior; it’s a natural stage in your puppy’s development.
Why Puppies Chew Constantly
Puppies explore the world using their mouths. During the teething stage (around 3–6 months), their gums itch as new teeth emerge. Chewing helps soothe that discomfort while also releasing pent-up energy.
Beyond teething, puppies bite to play, learn boundaries, and get attention. It’s how they interact with littermates and people. Without proper redirection, though, this behavior can lead to unwanted habits like biting hands, cords, or shoes.
The Role of Chew Toys
Chew toys are the safest way to redirect your puppy’s natural urge to bite toward something positive. The right toy provides:
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Relief from teething pain
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Mental and physical stimulation
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A safe outlet for chewing instincts
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Prevention of destructive behavior
But not all chew toys are created equal. Some materials can be too hard for young teeth, while others break apart easily — creating choking hazards. That’s why choosing safe, high-quality chew toys matters.
Tip from Trainers
Always keep at least two types of chew toys available — one soft (for comfort) and one firm (for challenge). This balance keeps your puppy engaged while protecting their teeth and gums.
The Top Chew Toys Puppies Absolutely Love
Now that we understand the why, let’s explore the what. Below are the best chew toys for puppies that love to bite — each selected for safety, durability, and engagement.
To make it fun, we’ll group them into themes instead of boring lists.
Category 1: Soothing Teething Toys — Gentle Relief for Aching Gums
When teething pain strikes, puppies look for soft resistance. That’s where cooling and rubber-based chew toys come in.
KONG Puppy Classic:
A global favorite, this toy is made from soft rubber that’s gentle on baby teeth. Stuff it with peanut butter or yogurt and freeze it — the cold sensation eases gum pain while rewarding your puppy for calm chewing.
Nylabone Chill & Chew:
Designed for teething pups, you can freeze this toy to create a cooling texture. Its unique ridges help massage sore gums, promoting healthy tooth growth.
Puppy Teething Ring:
Soft, flexible, and safe, these ring-style toys satisfy your pup’s need to chew without damaging their teeth. Ideal for breeds with smaller jaws.
Category 2: Interactive and Treat-Filled Chew Toys — Mental Stimulation Included
Smart play keeps your puppy busy and mentally active. Interactive chew toys double as brain exercises that strengthen focus and reduce boredom.
Outward Hound Treat Puzzle Chew:
Your pup must roll or nudge this toy to release treats hidden inside. It keeps them occupied for long stretches, making it perfect for energetic or easily bored breeds.
PetSafe Busy Buddy Twist ‘n Treat:
This adjustable toy dispenses snacks slowly as your puppy chews and twists it. It’s both a mental puzzle and a satisfying chew experience.
West Paw Zogoflex Qwizl:
Made from eco-friendly material, this toy is strong yet flexible. It holds treats inside, motivating your puppy to work and chew safely for rewards.
Category 3: Durable Chew Toys for Power Biters
Some puppies chew like tiny alligators. For them, tough, non-toxic materials are a must. These toys stand up to hours of gnawing while keeping teeth clean.
Benebone Wishbone Puppy Chew:
Made in the USA from nylon infused with real bacon flavor, this chew toy satisfies both taste and toughness. Its ergonomic wishbone design makes it easy for little paws to hold.
Goughnuts Puppy Ring:
Engineered for extreme chewers, it features a safety indicator — if your pup chews down to the red layer, it’s time for a replacement. Safe, strong, and vet-approved.
Natural Rope Toys:
Made from cotton or hemp, rope toys provide a great balance between fun and flossing. They clean teeth naturally while satisfying chewing instincts.
Pro tip: Always supervise playtime, especially with new toys. If a toy shows signs of tearing or shredding, replace it immediately.
How to Use Chew Toys to Train and Calm Your Puppy
You’ve got the toys — now let’s make them work for you. Chew toys aren’t just entertainment; they’re powerful training tools when used strategically.
Step A: Redirect, Don’t Scold
When your puppy bites furniture, calmly say “no” and redirect them to a chew toy. The goal is not punishment but replacement. Praise them immediately when they chew the toy instead. Positive reinforcement helps them understand what’s allowed.
Step B: Combine Chew Time with Training
Incorporate chew toys into obedience lessons. For example:
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After a successful “sit” or “stay,” offer a chew toy as a reward.
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Use chew sessions to teach “drop it” or “leave it.”
This method improves focus and impulse control while satisfying your puppy’s urge to bite.
Step C: Schedule Calm Chew Sessions
Chew toys are excellent tools for relaxation. Give your puppy a safe toy after meals or before bedtime to promote calmness. Over time, they’ll associate chewing with relaxation instead of hyperactivity.
Step D: Rotate Toys to Prevent Boredom
Don’t overwhelm your pup with too many toys at once. Rotate 3–4 every week to keep their interest fresh. When you bring an old toy back, your puppy will treat it like new!
Step E: Safety First, Always
Avoid toys that are too hard (can crack teeth) or have detachable parts. Choose vet-approved materials and replace worn-out toys regularly.
A well-managed chew routine creates a happy, calm, and well-behaved companion — one that learns through positive play.
Build Healthy Habits Early
The best chew toys for puppies that love to bite do more than protect your furniture — they teach discipline, relieve stress, and support growth. From soft teething rings to durable nylon bones, the right mix of toys helps your puppy develop healthy chewing habits that last a lifetime.
By giving your pup safe outlets and positive redirection, you’ll prevent destructive habits while nurturing a strong, trusting bond. Remember: consistency, patience, and love are the true secrets to raising a calm, confident dog.