Puppies chew—constantly. It’s a normal part of growing up, especially during the teething phase when their gums are sore, and their baby teeth are falling out. Chewing also helps them explore their environment and stay mentally stimulated.
But just because chewing is natural doesn’t mean everything they chew is safe. Some treats and toys can be too hard, too large, or made with ingredients that upset their digestion. Others might pose a choking risk if they break apart too easily.
That’s why choosing the right chew is more than just grabbing what looks fun off the shelf. It means thinking about your puppy’s age, size, chewing habits, and what’s actually safe for their stage of development.
In this guide, we’ll walk through the chews you can trust, the ones to avoid, and how to tell the difference—so your puppy stays happy, healthy, and out of trouble.
1. Why Chewing is Essential for Puppies
Chewing plays a much bigger role in a puppy’s development than most people realize. It’s not just about keeping them busy—it’s how they relieve teething discomfort, strengthen their jaw muscles, and learn how to use their mouths appropriately.
During the teething stage, their gums can feel sore and inflamed. Having something safe to chew on provides relief and helps loosen baby teeth to make way for adult ones. It also keeps them from chewing on things they shouldn’t—like furniture or shoes.
Beyond teething, chewing supports mental stimulation. It gives puppies something to focus on when they’re bored or anxious and can even help them settle down during quiet time.
The key is making sure they’re chewing the right things—because safe habits start early.
2. Safe Chew Options for Puppies
Puppies benefit from chews that are simple, digestible, and appropriate for their age. These treats not only help with teething discomfort but also keep your pup engaged in a healthy way.
Some safe and commonly used options include:
- Soft rubber toys designed for young dogs
- Freeze-dried animal parts like tendons or ears
- Natural rope toys made without plastic coatings or loose fibers
- Single-ingredient chews, such as bully sticks
- DIY frozen carrot sticks or apple slices (in moderation)
One common question pet parents ask is—are bully sticks safe for puppies? When bought from trusted sources and given in the correct size, they’re often considered a safer alternative to heavily processed or artificial chews. Always check that what you’re buying contains no added chemicals or harsh treatments.
2.1 How to Choose the Right One
Even among safe options, picking the right chew depends on your puppy’s size, habits, and age.
- Size: The chew should be big enough to avoid choking but manageable enough for your puppy to hold onto.
- Texture: Younger or teething pups need softer textures, while determined chewers may need something more durable.
- Ingredients: Look for short, clear ingredient lists—ideally just one whole-food item.
- Chewing Style: Observe how your puppy chews—do they nibble, gnaw, or try to swallow pieces whole? Let that guide your choices.
If you’re unsure what to start with, go small, stay safe, and keep an eye on how your puppy responds. You can always level up once you know what works.
3. Chews to Avoid for Young Dogs
There are plenty of chews marketed for dogs that just aren’t safe for puppies. Some pose choking hazards, while others can cause digestive upset or damage to developing teeth.
Here are a few types to steer clear of:
- Rawhide: It can be hard to digest. Often processed with chemicals and known for causing intestinal blockages.
- Cooked bones: These can splinter easily and injure your puppy’s mouth or digestive tract.
- Antlers and hooves: Too hard for young teeth and can lead to fractures or gum damage.
- Plastic or synthetic toys: Unless made specifically for puppies, these can be chewed apart and swallowed, causing harm.
Many of these are marketed toward adult dogs but are not appropriate for young pups with smaller jaws and softer teeth.
4. Tips for Safe Chew Time
Even the safest chew treats can become dangerous if used improperly. Here are some basic safety tips to follow:
- Always supervise your puppy while they chew, especially with new treats.
- Introduce new chews slowly to check for any digestive upset or sensitivity.
- Discard chews when they become small enough to be swallowed.
- Clean reusable chew toys often to prevent bacteria buildup.
- Limit chew time at first—start with 10–15 minutes and work up gradually.
Creating a safe chew environment helps your puppy enjoy their treats without added risk.
Conclusion
Chewing is an important part of growing up for puppies—but what they chew makes all the difference. Choosing safe, age-appropriate treats helps support healthy habits and keeps potential risks at bay. With the right options and a bit of supervision, chew time can be both fun and safe.
