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Sooth Teething Puppies: 5 Best Agility Sets 2026

Teething puppies have 28 baby teeth replaced by 42 adult teeth by 6 months. Find the best agility set with safe chews like the KONG Puppy Teething Stick for gentle gum relief.

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KONG Puppy Teething Stick โ˜… Top Pick: KONG Puppy Teething Stick Check Price on Amazon →
3 to 6 months
Typical teething period
28 baby teeth
Number of deciduous teeth in puppies
42 adult teeth
Number of permanent teeth in dogs
70%
Puppies that benefit from chew toys for teething relief
โšก Key takeaways
  • Best Overall: KONG Puppy Teething Stick. The KONG Puppy Teething Stick is made from soft, natural rubber that soothes sore gums whi.
  • Best Puzzle Toy: Outward Hound Hide-A-Squirrel Puzzle. This plush puzzle toy features a tree trunk with squeaky squirrels that puppies can pull o.
  • Best for Aggressive Chewers: Nylabone Puppy Chew Teething Keys. Made from durable nylon with soft nubs, these keys are designed for puppies who chew hard.
  • Best Dental Chew: Greenies Teenie Dental Dog Treats. These VOHC-accepted dental treats are soft enough for teething puppies yet effective at re.
  • Best Budget: West Paw Zogoflex Tux Treat Dispensing Toy. This tough, flexible rubber toy is dishwasher-safe and can be stuffed with treats or peanu.
At a Glance

Quick Comparison

Quick answer

Our top pick is the KONG Puppy Teething Stick, which combines a soft rubber texture for sore gums with a treat-dispensing design that keeps puppies engaged. For more structured agility play, the Outward Hound Hide-A-Squirrel Puzzle offers enrichment without hard plastic parts. If you need a budget-friendly option for supervised play, the Nylabone Puppy Chew Teething Keys provide safe, textured relief.

What to consider for Dog Agility Set For Teething Puppies

Teething puppies have sensitive mouths and a strong urge to chew, so any agility set or toy must be soft enough not to damage emerging teeth yet durable enough to withstand determined gnawing. Size is critical: components should be too large to swallow but lightweight for a puppy to carry. Look for materials like natural rubber or soft nylon that are non-toxic and free of small parts. Avoid sets with ropes that can fray and be ingested, or hard plastics that could crack teeth. Mental stimulation is equally important during teething, so puzzles that hide treats can redirect chewing energy. Always supervise play until you are confident the puppy won’t destroy the toy.

What to look for in a toy or chew (chew toy, puzzle, lick mat or dental chew)

Choose a size appropriate to the dog to avoid choking hazards: the toy should be larger than the puppy’s mouth opening. Durability must match the puppy’s chew strength; soft rubber is ideal for teething, but if the puppy is a heavy chewer, step up to tougher materials like hard nylon or rubber blends. Non-toxic materials are mandatory; look for labels like BPA-free, phthalate-free, and food-grade. For dental chews, a VOHC seal indicates proven plaque and tartar reduction. Genuine enrichment value comes from toys that can be stuffed with treats or have moving parts that challenge the puppy mentally, reducing boredom and destructive chewing.

How we chose these picks

  • Evaluated each product’s material safety and suitability for teething puppies.
  • Considered size and weight to ensure no choking risk for small to medium breeds.
  • Assessed durability based on manufacturer specifications and puppy chew strength.
  • Prioritized toys that offer mental stimulation or treat-dispensing features.
  • Checked for positive reviews from owners of teething puppies.
  • Favored brands with a reputation for pet safety and quality control.
  • Compared price points to offer options for different budgets.
  • Never ranked a product higher just because it pays a commission.

What to avoid

  • Toys small enough to swallow or choke on; always choose a size larger than the puppy’s mouth.
  • Hard chews (like antlers or hard nylon) that can crack developing teeth.
  • Falling-apart toys that shed pieces, stuffing, or squeakers that could be ingested.
  • Leaving a heavy chewer unsupervised with any toy until you are certain it is safe.

For more guidance, explore our dog guides, dog care products, and dog nutrition sections.

Why this matters

Teething puppies have 28 baby teeth that are replaced by 42 adult teeth between 3 and 6 months of age, making safe chew toys essential for soothing gums and preventing destructive chewing.

The Options

Types Explained

Chew Toys

Solid rubber or nylon toys designed for chewing. They often have textures to massage gums and clean teeth. Some are hollow for stuffing treats.

Best for: Puppies that need a durable outlet for chewing and teething relief.

Puzzle Toys

Interactive toys that require the puppy to solve a problem to get a treat. They can be plush, plastic, or rubber with compartments.

Best for: Puppies that are bored or need mental stimulation to reduce destructive behavior.

Lick Mats

Flat rubber mats with grooves that can be spread with peanut butter, yogurt, or wet food. Puppies lick the food off, which soothes gums and provides calming enrichment.

Best for: Puppies that are anxious or need a calming activity during teething.

Dental Chews

Edible treats that are formulated to reduce plaque and tartar. Many have a VOHC seal. They are digestible and often contain enzymes or abrasives.

Best for: Puppies that need dental care and enjoy a tasty, consumable chew.
The Rankings

Top 5 Picks

#1
KONG Puppy Teething Stick
Best Overall

KONG Puppy Teething Stick

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The KONG Puppy Teething Stick is made from soft, natural rubber that soothes sore gums while being durable enough for moderate chewing. Its treat-dispensing ends keep puppies mentally stimulated, and the textured surface helps clean teeth. However, it is not indestructible; aggressive chewers may damage it over time, so supervision is recommended.

#2
Outward Hound Hide-A-Squirrel Puzzle
Best Puzzle Toy

Outward Hound Hide-A-Squirrel Puzzle

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This plush puzzle toy features a tree trunk with squeaky squirrels that puppies can pull out, satisfying their urge to forage. It provides mental enrichment without hard parts, making it safe for teething mouths. The downside is that the plush material can be torn by determined chewers, and the squeakers may be a choking hazard if removed.

#3
Nylabone Puppy Chew Teething Keys
Best for Aggressive Chewers

Nylabone Puppy Chew Teething Keys

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Made from durable nylon with soft nubs, these keys are designed for puppies who chew hard. They massage gums and help clean teeth, and the key shape is easy for small mouths to grip. However, they are non-edible and can wear down; once sharp edges form, replace them to prevent mouth injuries.

#4
Greenies Teenie Dental Dog Treats
Best Dental Chew

Greenies Teenie Dental Dog Treats

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These VOHC-accepted dental treats are soft enough for teething puppies yet effective at reducing plaque and tartar. They are easily digestible and made with natural ingredients. The main limitation is that they are consumable and may not last long for heavy chewers, plus they contain calories that should be factored into the diet.

#5
West Paw Zogoflex Tux Treat Dispensing Toy
Best Budget

West Paw Zogoflex Tux Treat Dispensing Toy

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This tough, flexible rubber toy is dishwasher-safe and can be stuffed with treats or peanut butter for extended play. It is buoyant and bounces unpredictably, adding fun. The trade-off is that it is relatively small and may not challenge larger puppies, and the treat opening can be difficult to clean thoroughly.

Before You Buy

Key Buying Factors

01

Material Safety

Ensure the toy is made from non-toxic, BPA-free, and phthalate-free materials. Puppies explore with their mouths, so any chemicals can be harmful. Look for natural rubber, food-grade silicone, or soft nylon that is labeled safe for puppies.

02

Size and Shape

The toy should be large enough that it cannot be swallowed whole but small enough for the puppy to carry. Avoid toys with small parts that can break off. Shapes with nubs or ridges can massage gums and promote healthy chewing.

03

Durability vs. Softness

Teething puppies need a balance: the toy must be soft enough not to damage emerging teeth but durable enough to withstand chewing. Hard materials like antlers or hard nylon can crack teeth. Look for products specifically designed for teething puppies.

04

Enrichment Value

Toys that dispense treats or have hidden compartments provide mental stimulation, which can reduce destructive chewing. Puzzle toys and treat-dispensing balls are excellent for keeping a teething puppy engaged and tired.

05

Ease of Cleaning

Puppy toys get dirty quickly. Choose toys that are dishwasher-safe or easy to hand wash. Avoid toys with crevices that trap bacteria. Regular cleaning prevents mold and keeps the toy safe for your puppy.

Living With It

Care, Cost and Maintenance

Cleaning

Wash rubber and silicone toys in warm soapy water or the dishwasher (top rack). Plush toys can be machine washed on a gentle cycle and air dried. Dental chews are single-use, so discard after the puppy finishes them. Regularly inspect toys for damage and replace if pieces break off.

Storage

Store toys in a clean, dry place away from direct sunlight to prevent material degradation. Rotate toys every few days to keep your puppy interested. Avoid storing toys with food residue, as they can attract pests or grow mold.

Safety Checks

Before each use, examine the toy for cracks, sharp edges, or loose parts. Discard any toy that is worn down to prevent choking or ingestion. Always supervise your puppy with new toys until you are confident they are safe.

Pro tip

Freeze a wet washcloth or a rubber chew toy for 15 to 30 minutes to provide extra cooling relief for sore gums, but always supervise to prevent over-chewing on frozen items.

Frequently asked questions

Are these toys safe for heavy chewers?
It depends on the toy. Soft rubber toys like the KONG Puppy Teething Stick are designed for moderate chewing and may not hold up to heavy chewers. For aggressive chewers, consider tougher materials like hard nylon (e.g., Nylabone) or rubber blends (e.g., West Paw). However, no toy is indestructible, so always supervise and replace when damaged. If your puppy is a power chewer, consult your vet for recommendations.
How do I size a toy for my teething puppy?
A good rule is to choose a toy that is larger than the puppy's mouth opening to prevent swallowing. For small breeds, toys should be at least 2 to 3 inches in diameter. For medium to large breeds, look for toys 4 inches or larger. The toy should also be lightweight enough for the puppy to carry. Check the manufacturer's weight recommendations if available.
Do I need to supervise my puppy with these toys?
Yes, always supervise your puppy with any new toy, especially during teething. Puppies can break off pieces and choke or ingest foreign material. Even durable toys can wear down over time. Supervision allows you to intervene if the toy becomes damaged. Once you know your puppy's chewing style, you can gradually allow independent play, but periodic checks are still wise.
What are the benefits of dental chews for puppies?
Dental chews help reduce plaque and tartar buildup through mechanical abrasion and sometimes enzymatic action. They also freshen breath and provide a safe outlet for chewing. For teething puppies, soft dental chews like Greenies are gentle on emerging teeth. Look for the VOHC seal to ensure proven effectiveness. However, they are treats and should be given in moderation to avoid excess calories.
Can puzzle toys help with teething pain?
Puzzle toys primarily provide mental stimulation, which can distract a puppy from teething discomfort. They encourage problem-solving and can reduce anxiety. While they don't directly soothe gums, the act of licking or nibbling on treat-dispensing toys can offer mild relief. For direct gum massage, a rubber chew toy is more effective. Combining both types can address both pain and boredom.
What is the difference between digestible and non-digestible chews?
Digestible chews, like Greenies, are made from food-grade ingredients that break down in the stomach, reducing the risk of intestinal blockage. Non-digestible chews, like Nylabone, are made from nylon or rubber and are not meant to be swallowed; they are designed for chewing only. Non-digestible chews require supervision to ensure pieces are not ingested. For puppies, digestible chews are often safer but shorter-lasting.
How do I clean my puppy's chew toys?
Rubber and silicone toys can be washed in warm soapy water or placed on the top rack of the dishwasher. Plush toys can be machine washed on a gentle cycle and air dried. Avoid using harsh chemicals. For toys with crevices, use a bottle brush to remove debris. Dental chews are single-use and should be discarded after the puppy finishes them. Regular cleaning prevents bacterial growth.
What should I do if my puppy swallows a piece of a toy?
If you suspect your puppy has swallowed a piece of a toy, monitor for signs of distress such as vomiting, lethargy, loss of appetite, or difficulty defecating. Contact your veterinarian immediately. Do not induce vomiting unless instructed by a vet. To prevent this, always supervise play and discard toys that show wear. Choose toys appropriate for your puppy's size and chew strength.
At what age can I start using agility sets with my puppy?
Puppies can start gentle agility training as early as 8 weeks old, but only with low-impact activities that don't stress growing joints. Avoid jumps and hard surfaces. Focus on tunnels, weave poles (set low), and flatwork. Always use positive reinforcement and keep sessions short (5 to 10 minutes). Consult your vet before starting any structured exercise, especially for large breed puppies prone to joint issues.
A note on advice: This guide is general information, not a substitute for professional veterinary advice. Talk to your vet before changing your pet's diet or care routine, especially if your pet has allergies, kidney disease, pancreatitis, obesity, heart disease or any other medical condition.
Transparency

How we made this guide

How we chose. We compared the options on the factors that matter most for Dog Care Products, using manufacturer specifications, aggregated verified owner reviews and editorial comparison. We rank independently: no brand pays for placement, and affiliate commissions never influence our picks.

How it was written. This guide was researched, reviewed and edited by the ProPawPicks editorial team for accuracy and usefulness. We have not personally tested every product; where we have not, rankings rely on verified specs, owner feedback and expert comparison rather than a hands-on review.

Affiliate disclosure. ProPawPicks is reader-supported. If you buy through links on our site, we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. See our affiliate disclosure.

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Sources and further reading

Some links below are affiliate links. If you buy through them we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Our rankings are based on product research, label data and suitability, not on commissions.