Start with one or two puppy-specific chew toys in a size that suits your puppy's mouth, and supervise chewing. A soft rubber toy and a set of teething chews are a simple pair to begin with.
This page contains affiliate links. We earn a commission if you buy through links on this page, at no extra cost to you. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
Quick pick
- Soft rubber chew: the KONG Puppy toy, which comes in more than one size on Amazon, so choose the size on the listing.
- Teething chews: the Nylabone Puppy Chew Toys Starter Kit, sold as a pack of three.
- Always: supervise, and remove any toy that is breaking into pieces. See the shortlist for caveats.
Comparison
We have not verified product-level specifications such as exact dimensions or weight limits for these listings, so this table compares the two styles and what to check on each page.
| Feature | Nylabone Puppy Chew Toys Starter Kit (Pack of 3) | KONG Puppy |
|---|---|---|
| Style | Three teething chews in one pack | Soft rubber puppy toy, designed to be stuffed with food |
| Size | Check the listing for the intended puppy size | Sold in sizes. Choose the size on the Amazon page |
| Check on the listing | Intended size or weight range, materials, supervision advice | Size options, materials, cleaning and stuffing notes |
Simple shortlist
Nylabone Puppy Chew Toys Starter Kit (Pack of 3)
A three-chew teething starter pack for puppies.
Caveat: Check the listing's size guidance before you buy. Chew toys can break apart or be swallowed, so supervise your puppy and take away any toy that is breaking up.
KONG Puppy Toy (Small)
A soft rubber puppy toy that can be stuffed with food.
Caveat: This link is the Small size, so check it suits your puppy's mouth, and choose another size on the Amazon page if needed. As with any chew toy, supervise your puppy.
Pros and cons
Pros
- Puppy-specific toys are sized and made for puppies rather than adult dogs
- A stuffable rubber toy gives your puppy something to do while you are busy
- A teething set gives variety in texture
Cons
- Any chew can break, so supervision is essential
- Check the pack suits your puppy's mouth size
- A puppy may ignore a toy you pick, so start small before buying more
What to look for
- Puppy-safe materials and sizing.
- Textures that help with teething.
- A toy your puppy can actually grip.
- A simple shape that is easy to rinse or wipe down.
What to avoid
- Toys made for large aggressive chewers if you have a tiny puppy.
- Very hard materials for very young pups. Ask your vet if you are unsure.
- Toys that are too small to use safely, which can be a swallowing risk.
- Buying a giant set before learning what your puppy actually likes.
- Letting your puppy chew unsupervised.
Simple buying tip
Start with one or two practical teething toys first. Once you know whether your puppy prefers rubber, rope or squeaky toys, then buy more. Rotate toys so each one stays interesting.
Keeping chewing safe
- Inspect toys regularly and throw away damaged ones.
- Choose a size that is too big to swallow but comfortable to hold.
- Offer chews when your puppy is calm, and take them away if the play gets rough.
- Redirect chewing of furniture or shoes to an approved toy, with praise.
Frequently asked questions
When do puppies start teething?
Puppies lose their baby teeth as adult teeth come through over several months. Ask your vet when to expect it in your puppy and what to do if you are worried.
Can I stuff a rubber toy with food?
Many owners do, but check the product's own directions and your puppy's diet. Count the stuffing as part of the day's food. For a flatter, lick-based option, see our lick mat guide.
How we choose
For puppy toys we looked at the size information, the type of chew and what each listing says about use and supervision. Because we have not verified product-level specifications for these two listings, we avoid quoting weights or dimensions and tell you what to check on the Amazon page.
This guide is research-based. We have not hands-on tested these products. We compare manufacturer and listing specifications and general guidance, and any pros, cons and picks are the Small Paw Guide editorial team's own assessment, not test results. We do not show prices or customer feedback, so check the current listing before you buy. See how we work and our affiliate disclosure. The review date for this guide is shown under its title.
Final thought
The best first puppy toy is usually the one that is safe, well sized and easy to replace if your puppy loves it.
Keep reading
- Puppy Essentials Checklist Australia: What to Buy First: How many toys a puppy needs in the first week.
- Best Calming Products for Anxious Dogs: Fireworks Night Plan: Lick mats and enrichment for settling.
- Best Dog Crates for Small Dogs in Australian Apartments: Chew options for crate time.
- Small Dog Harness Sizing Guide for Australia: Walking gear for a growing puppy.
- Best Lick Mats and Enrichment for Small Dogs in Australia: Lick mats and pots for puppies that need something calm to do.
- Christmas Gifts for Small Dogs in Australia: Gift ideas for a small dog or a new puppy this Christmas.
More in this topic: gear and setup guides, or browse all guides.