During teething, a puppies need to chew is increased to try and relieve them from the discomfort they feel from their teeth trying to break through their gums. This causes them to chew almost anything and everything – including shoes, pillows and remotes. To try and prevent this a range of toys should be offered to try and ease the discomfort and to tempt them away from your shoes. As with any new toy and treat, the dog should be watched to make sure they don’t have a reaction to it, nor be able to fit it in their mouth and swallow it whole.
Rope Toys
Its important to get quality rope toys to prevent fibres breaking off in the dog’s mouth. Rope toys are effective as they floss their teeth at the same time as applying pressure and relieving the discomfort in their gums. When choosing the rope toy its key to pick a rope toy bigger than the puppies head to prevent them trying to swallow the rope toy whole and choking on it. Once its old and tatty its best to throw out the toy and replace it to try and prevent any bacteria lingering and growing or wash the toy at a 40°c cycle and above.
Kong Puppy
Kong does puppy versions which are a little softer than the normal Kong toys. Made of rubber, they provide the pressure needed to relieve their gums without being as tough as other Kongs. They work by having a hollow middle that can be filled with a spreadable treat – such as xylitol-free peanut butter – and frozen to give hours of fun. Nonetheless, care should be taken to watch the puppy with the toy as when the treat runs out they’re likely to just destroy the toy instead.
Puppy Nylabones
Nylabones are known for their durability and being virtually indestructible, which makes them perfect for teething puppies. Puppy Nylabones are gentler than the adult version which are made in mind for the ‘extreme’ chewing of adult dogs, making them much more suitable for teething. Nylabones also help prevent the build up of tartar, helping keep the puppies new teeth healthy. Normally flavoured, they can keep puppies occupied for hours, but due attention should be paid to make sure they can’t swallow it whole and to make sure shards of the bone aren’t broken off and consumed.
Natural Antlers
Naturally-shed antlers sold in pet shops have normally been sterilised, making them perfect for teething puppies. They also help in preventing tartar build up and are full of natural minerals such as calcium, potassium and zinc, allowing the teeth to remain strong and healthy. As with most treats, antlers should be thrown away before they get too small. Similar alternatives include natural tripe, pizzle sticks, fish twists, cow ears and pigs ears, all in moderation as treats like pigs ears are high in fat.
Teething Gel
Alternatively, teething gel can be used to help soothe sore gums. This in turn helps reduce chewing and can be used when you’re unable to supervise a toy or treats use as the ingredients contain soothing properties.
Team Shanklinpets