If you’ve just brought home a puppy, you know the house can turn into a toy battlefield in minutes. The right toy not only keeps your little buddy busy, it protects your shoes, helps with teething, and teaches good habits. Below you’ll get quick, practical advice on picking safe toys, what to avoid, and a short list of our favourite options.
First, safety matters more than flash. Choose toys made from non‑toxic, BPA‑free rubber or sturdy fabric. Look for a size that’s big enough that your pup can’t swallow it whole – a good rule is to pick a toy that can’t fit inside your palm.
Second, think about the purpose. Chewing toys help sore gums, while fetch toys burn off excess energy. Interactive toys with squeakers or crinkle paper give mental stimulation, which is essential for a curious puppy that’s learning the world.
Third, durability isn’t everything. Some puppies love soft plushy toys that they can cuddle with at night. Those are fine as long as you supervise and replace them once they start to fall apart.
Based on the articles we’ve written, here are three toys that consistently get the thumbs‑up from trainers and owners:
When you buy, check the manufacturer’s age rating and read the “how to clean” directions – a clean toy means fewer germs for your puppy’s mouth.
If you’re still unsure, our post “Best Toys for New Puppies: What Actually Works” walks through each category in detail, plus a printable cheat‑sheet you can hand to friends or family.
Remember, no single toy will solve all problems. Rotate the toys every few days so your pup stays interested, and always supervise the first few play sessions. With the right mix of chew, fetch, and cuddle toys, you’ll see fewer chewed‑up shoes and a happier, calmer puppy who’s learning good habits from day one.
Worried about your puppy chewing on everything in sight? This article breaks down safe and smart choices for puppy chew toys. You’ll find which toys are good for teething, what to avoid, and little tricks to keep your puppy’s teeth off your shoes and furniture. Learn what’s best for their growing teeth and what toys can help them stay calm and happy. Say goodbye to ruined socks!
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