- Cold ice will help numb your puppy's gums and ease her pain. A dish of ice cubes can be a good treat, but be careful that the ice isn't too large that she can choke on a cube. You can also try offering your puppy a block of ice, or freeze ice in a smaller container such as an empty margarine tub.
- There are many, many teething toys on the market for puppies of all sizes. Some toys are designed to put in the refrigerator to chill them. Others are made of hard rubber, and there are also teethers designed with little nubs to massage the gums while chewing. The Puppy Kong is a thick, hollow, rubber toy that is designed to hold food treats. You can fill it with peanut butter, or with the spray-in treats also available by Kong. This toy will entertain your puppy for hours as he or she tries to get the treat out of the small hole in the bottom, and it is sturdy enough to last for a long time. In general, look for toys that won't be easily shredded--they will last much longer, and the more firm surface will feel better on the gums.
- Rawhide chews and bones are also good for chewing and can keep an active, curious puppy entertained for hours. Make sure to purchase chews that are the right size for your puppy to avoid choking hazards.
- You can find rope toys at your local pet shop, or make your own. Puppies love to chew on a thick piece of rope that has several knots in it. As an added bonus, the rope also acts as floss for the puppy's new teeth and will help maintain good dental hygiene.
- You may be tempted to allow your puppy to chew on an old shoe, and your puppy will certainly appreciate a good leather chew toy. If you don't mind having all your shoes chewed on, that will be fine. However, if you are trying to teach the puppy not to chew shoes or other personal items, giving her an old shoe will just be confusing. Instead, offer an appropriate toy.
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