The 8 Best Chew Toys for Puppies (2026)
Finding the best chew toys for puppies is crucial for their development, health, and your peace of mind. Chewing is a natural and necessary behavior for puppies. During the teething phase, typically between 3 and 6 months of age, puppies experience discomfort as their adult teeth emerge. Providing appropriate chew toys not only alleviates this pain but also directs their chewing instincts away from your furniture, shoes, and other household items.
Beyond teething, chewing serves several vital functions in canine behavior. It's a stress reliever, an outlet for excess energy, and a form of mental stimulation. For young puppies, exploration of their environment often involves their mouths, and having safe, engaging chew toys available can help them learn appropriate boundaries. Moreover, certain chew toys can promote dental hygiene by scraping away plaque and tartar.
However, not all chew toys are created equal. The wrong toy can pose choking hazards, cause dental damage, or simply fall apart too quickly, leading to frustration for both you and your pup. Our science-backed guide, developed by dog behavior experts at The Curious Dog Owner, dives into the top options available in 2026, helping you make an informed decision for your furry family member. We've considered safety, durability, and a puppy's unique developmental needs to bring you a comprehensive list.
How we picked
To identify the best chew toys for puppies, we focused on several key criteria: safety, durability, appropriateness for developmental stage, and value for money. We prioritized toys made from non-toxic materials that won't splinter or be easily ingested. Durability was assessed based on material strength and construction, ensuring they could withstand a puppy's sharp teeth without posing a choking hazard. Size and texture were evaluated for their suitability for growing puppy mouths, considering both teething relief and engagement. Finally, we looked at the overall value, factoring in price, the number of toys included, and user reviews to ensure you're getting effective solutions that last.
Beiker 20 Pack Puppy Chew Toys - Blue Dog Teething Toys for Puppies, Puppy Teething Rings and Ropes, Rubber Toy Bundle for Small Dogs, Cute Interactive Dog Balls for Small Breed
This Beiker 20-pack earned our top spot for its incredible variety and excellent value, specifically catering to the needs of small breed puppies. It includes a thoughtful selection of teething rings, rope toys, and rubber toys, offering different textures and chewing experiences crucial during the exploratory puppy phase. The softer rubber and fabric options are ideal for sensitive puppy gums, while the interactive balls promote engagement. It's truly a comprehensive starter kit, ensuring your puppy always has an appropriate outlet for their chewing instincts.
- +Huge variety of toys for different chewing needs
- +Excellent value for the price
- +Suitable for small breeds and puppies
- +Includes both teething and interactive toys
- +Helps redirect destructive chewing
- −Some toys may not withstand aggressive chewers long-term
- −May not be suitable for larger puppy breeds
HGB Squeaky Dog Toys - Octopus No Stuffing Crinkle Plush Large Dog Toys to Keep Them Busy, Interactive Puppy Teething Chewing Pet Supplies for Chewer, Small, Medium, Large Breeds, 2 Pack
The HGB Squeaky Dog Toys, particularly the octopus design, stands out for its soft yet engaging construction. Unlike many stuff-filled plush toys, this one is stuffing-free, significantly reducing the risk of ingestion if a puppy manages to tear it. The crinkle material and multiple squeakers provide excellent auditory and tactile stimulation, keeping puppies entertained and busy. While not for aggressive chewers, the soft fabric is gentle on sore puppy gums, making it a good choice for comfort and interactive play during the teething phase.
- +Stuffing-free design minimizes ingestion risk
- +Crinkle sound and multiple squeakers for engagement
- +Soft material is gentle on puppy gums
- +Good for interactive play and gentle chewing
- +Comes in a 2-pack for continued fun
- −Not designed for aggressive chewers
- −Durability may vary for persistent shredders
LOYEE 8 Pack Puppy Toys for Small Dogs, Luxury Dog Chew Toys with Squeaky Plush Toys, Rope Toys and Ball, Teething Toys for Puppy Supplies
The LOYEE 8 Pack offers another fantastic assortment for tiny mouths, emphasizing both comfort and engagement. This set thoughtfully combines soft, squeaky plush toys with more durable rope and rubber ball options. This diverse mix is excellent for puppies in different stages of teething and chewing preference. The plush toys satisfy the urge for softer 'kill play,' while ropes and balls provide more substantial chewing and interactive game opportunities, promoting proper bite inhibition and satisfying natural canine instincts.
- +Good mix of plush, rope, and ball toys
- +Suitable for small puppies and teething
- +Provides varied textures and chewing experiences
- +Affordable price for multiple toys
- +Addresses both comfort and play needs
- −Plush toys may not last with strong chewers
- −Rope toys require supervision to prevent shredding
Nylabone Original Bone Power Chew Toy for Dogs, Durable Dog Toys for Aggressive Chewers, Basted Blast Bacon & Chicken Flavor, Medium - Up to 35 lbs, 2 Pack
Nylabone is a trusted name in dog chew toys, and their Original Bone Power Chew is a classic for a reason. This 2-pack is specifically designed for aggressive chewers up to 35 lbs, making it an excellent choice for puppies who already display strong chewing habits. Made from durable nylon, it's formulated to withstand persistent chewing while helping to clean teeth and reduce plaque and tartar buildup. The basted bacon and chicken flavors add an enticing element, encouraging puppies to chew on this appropriate item instead of household goods.
- +Extremely durable for aggressive puppy chewers
- +Helps clean teeth and reduce plaque
- +Enticing Basted Blast Bacon & Chicken flavor
- +Long-lasting and safe when size-appropriate
- +Promotes positive chewing habits
- −Can be too hard for very young puppies with sensitive gums
- −Not digestible, small pieces can break off over time
KONG Ring - Natural Rubber Ring Toy for Healthy Chewing Habits - Chew Toy Supports Dog Dental Health - Dog Toy Supports Instincts During Playtime - for Medium/Large Dogs
The KONG Ring is an excellent choice for puppies transitioning to more durable chew toys, especially for medium to large breeds. Made from natural rubber, it offers a satisfying chew that's more forgiving than hard nylon but still exceptionally tough. The unique ring shape provides a varied chewing surface and encourages healthy chewing habits, making it a great tool for dental health. KONG toys are renowned for their durability and ability to satisfy a dog's inherent need to chew and explore, supporting appropriate instinctual behaviors during playtime.
- +Durable natural rubber for satisfying chews
- +Helps promote dental health and clean teeth
- +Good for medium to large puppies
- +Supports natural chewing instincts
- +Can be used for interactive play and retrieve
- −May be too heavy or large for very small puppies
- −Not indestructible for extreme power chewers
Tough Dog Toys for Aggressive Chewers: Beef Flavored Long Lasting Dog Bones for Large Dogs, Indestructible Dog Chew Toys to Keep Them Busy, Large Dog Toys for Medium & Large Breed, Red
While marketed for 'large dogs,' this durable, beef-flavored chew bone can be an excellent option for bigger puppy breeds with serious chewing power. Its robust construction is designed to be long-lasting and withstand aggressive chewing, providing a safe alternative to real bones that can splinter. The beef flavor is a key attractant, encouraging puppies to engage with it for extended periods. It's crucial for owners of larger breeds to provide appropriate, tough toys early on to establish good chewing habits and prevent destructive behaviors.
- +Highly durable for strong puppy chewers
- +Enticing beef flavor keeps puppies engaged
- +Long-lasting and slows down chewing
- +Safer alternative to natural bones
- +Designed to withstand aggressive chewing
- −Too large and hard for small or young puppies
- −Not digestible, requires supervision for wear
QDAN Dog Balls, World Cup Soccer Ball with Straps, Durable Herding Balls for Small Medium Pet, Puppy Birthday Gifts, Dog Water Toy, Pet Toys Puppy Ball (6 Inch)
The QDAN Dog Ball, modeled after a World Cup soccer ball, offers unique enrichment for puppies. While not a traditional chew toy in the sense of a Nylabone, its durable design and straps make it excellent for herding, pushing, and interactive play. This type of toy encourages physical activity and mental stimulation, which are vital for a puppy's development. For puppies who love to chase and mouth objects, this provides a safe, oversized target that's hard to destroy and can even be used in water, promoting appropriate play without focusing solely on aggressive chewing.
- +Promotes active play and mental stimulation
- +Durable for pushing and herding activities
- +Safe for water play
- +Unique design with straps for engagement
- +Good for puppies who love to chase and mouth
- −Not designed for aggressive chewing
- −Puppies may attempt to chew off the straps
DISSKNIC Indestructible Squeaky Dog Ball, Relieves Anxiety, Cleans Teeth, Interactive Chew Toy for Aggressive Chewers, Dog Toy for Large Breeds, Outdoor Waterproof
The DISSKNIC Indestructible Squeaky Dog Ball is a solid choice for puppies who are transitioning into more powerful chewers. Made from durable, non-toxic material, it's designed to withstand considerable abuse, making it a good option for puppies with anxious chewing tendencies or those who quickly destroy other toys. The added squeaker provides stimulating sound, and its textured surface helps to clean teeth. This ball is particularly good for outdoor play due to its waterproof nature, ensuring long-lasting fun, and promoting healthy chewing habits away from household items.
- +Highly durable and designed for aggressive chewers
- +Squeaker for added engagement and anxiety relief
- +Helps clean teeth and gums
- +Waterproof for outdoor play
- +Relatively affordable for its durability
- −Can be too hard for very young puppies or those with sensitive teeth
- −Some puppies may lose interest if not paired with interactive play
The verdict
Choosing the right chew toy for your puppy is an investment in their health, happiness, and your furniture's longevity. Our top pick, the Beiker 20 Pack Puppy Chew Toys, stands out as an exceptional value, offering an unparalleled variety of textures and styles suitable for most small to medium-sized puppies in their crucial teething phase. Its comprehensive nature ensures every puppy finds something satisfying, helping to redirect destructive chewing from day one.
For puppies who quickly develop stronger jaws or show signs of anxiety-driven chewing, the Nylabone Original Bone Power Chew is a fantastic runner-up. Its robust design and appealing flavor provide a safe, long-lasting outlet. When making your choice, always consider your puppy's breed, size, and individual chewing style, and remember that supervised play with appropriate toys is key to a happy, well-adjusted canine companion.
Frequently asked questions
Why do puppies chew so much?
Puppies chew primarily for two main reasons: teething and exploration. As their adult teeth come in, chewing helps relieve discomfort and irritation in their gums. Additionally, puppies use their mouths to explore the world around them, much like human babies use their hands, making chewing a natural and instinctual behavior.
What materials are safest for puppy chew toys?
Safe materials include natural rubber, durable nylon, and certain types of rope (under supervision). Always look for non-toxic, food-grade materials that won't splinter or break off into small, ingestible pieces that could pose a choking hazard or cause digestive issues. Avoid toys with small adornments or stuffing that can be easily torn off and swallowed.
How often should I replace puppy chew toys?
Inspect your puppy's chew toys regularly for wear and tear, such as cracks, loose pieces, or excessive fraying. Toys should be replaced immediately if they show signs of breaking down, as these can become choking hazards or cause gastrointestinal problems. The lifespan of a toy will depend on its durability and your puppy's chewing habits, so consistent vigilance is important.