What Can You Give A Small Puppy To Chew On?

Oh, the puppy breath! There is nothing quite like the sweet, slightly milky smell of a new puppy. But as any small breed owner knows, that adorable little mouth quickly turns into a tiny, furry piranha. When I first brought my mini dachshund home, I think she spent more time chewing on my favorite slippers than she did sleeping. If you are currently staring at a chewed-up baseboard or nursing a nipped finger, believe me, I have been there.

Chewing is not just a hobby for puppies; it is a developmental necessity. They explore the world with their mouths, and as those adult teeth start pushing through, their gums get incredibly sore. Finding the right chew for a small puppy is a bit like Goldilocks searching for porridge—it cannot be too hard, it cannot be too big, and it has to be just right for those tiny jaws.

The Golden Rule of Puppy Chews: The Thumbnail Test

Before we dive into the best products for 2026, let us talk about safety. The most important thing to remember is that puppy teeth are surprisingly fragile. They are designed to fall out, after all! A common mistake is giving a puppy something too hard, like a natural bone or a heavy-duty nylon toy meant for adult dogs.

A good rule of thumb—literally—is the thumbnail test. If you press your thumbnail into the chew and it does not give at all, it is likely too hard for a puppy. If it is hard enough to break a tooth, it is a no-go. This is especially true for small breeds like dachshunds, yorkies, or chihuahuas, whose jaws are smaller and more delicate.

Top 2026 Picks for Tiny Teethers

I have spent a lot of time (and probably too much money) testing out what actually works for small pups. Here are the standouts that are currently topping the charts for safety and engagement in 2026.

The Classic KONG Puppy (Small or X-Small)

You really cannot go wrong with a KONG. The puppy version is made with a softer rubber formula than the classic red one, specifically designed for baby teeth. For a small puppy, the X-Small or Small size is perfect. My favorite trick is to fill it with a little bit of wet puppy food or a tiny bit of KONG Puppy Easy Treat (which is a chicken liver flavor most pups go crazy for) and pop it in the freezer. The cold rubber helps soothe those inflamed gums while they lick and chew. You can usually find these for around $7.00 to $9.00 depending on the size.

Benebone Puppy Pack

Benebone has really stepped up their game for the little guys. Their Puppy Pack usually comes with two or three smaller chews made from a slightly softer material than their adult versions. They use real bacon or peanut butter for flavor, so the scent is very enticing. What I love about these is the ergonomic shape—they are easy for a tiny pup to hold between their paws while they gnaw. A 2-pack typically runs about $14.20.

Petstages Cool Teething Stick

This is a lifesaver during the peak of teething. You soak the outer fabric in water and then freeze it. The crunchy, cold sensation is like a popsicle for puppies. It is specifically designed to be thin enough for small mouths to get a good grip on. These are very affordable, usually around $6.00, and they are great for providing that much-needed cooling relief.

Natural and Edible Options: What is Safe?

While toys are great, sometimes a puppy just wants something they can actually eat. However, you have to be careful with calories and digestibility.

Frozen Carrots: The Natural Teether

One of the best (and cheapest) things you can give your pup is a whole, frozen carrot. It is crunchy, cold, and healthy. Just make sure to supervise them so they do not swallow a large chunk. It is a great way to get some extra vitamins in while helping their gums.

Bully Sticks (The Thin Kind)

Bully sticks are a favorite for many, but for a small puppy, you want to look for the "extra thin" or "junior" varieties. Most vets recommend waiting until your puppy is at least 12 weeks old before introducing these, as they are quite rich and can cause tummy upset if they eat too much too fast. Always use a bully stick holder to prevent them from swallowing the last little bit, which can be a choking hazard.

Purina DentaLife Puppy Chews

If you are looking for a daily dental treat, these are a solid choice for 2026. They have a porous, chewy texture that helps scrub teeth as they gnaw, and they are fortified with DHA for brain development. They are much softer than traditional rawhide (which I generally recommend avoiding for puppies) and are designed to be easily digestible. A bag usually costs around $6.50.

Puppy Chew Safety Comparison Table

Actionable Takeaways for New Puppy Parents

1. 1Supervise, Supervise, Supervise: Never leave your puppy alone with a new chew. You need to see how they interact with it and make sure they are not breaking off pieces.
2. 2Rotate the Toys: Puppies get bored easily. Keep a "toy box" and only give them two or three chews at a time, then swap them out every few days to keep things exciting.
3. 3Watch the Calories: Edible chews add up! If you give a bully stick or a dental chew, remember to adjust their dinner portions slightly so they do not pack on the puppy pudge.
4. 4Know When to Toss It: As soon as a toy starts to look frayed or pieces are missing, it is time for the trash. Safety always comes first.

Bottom Line: Who It Is For

If you have a small breed puppy under six months old, you need a variety of textures. Start with a KONG for enrichment, a Benebone for those long afternoon gnaw sessions, and some frozen carrots for the really rough teething days. By providing these safe outlets, you are not just saving your furniture—you are helping your little one grow up with a happy, healthy mouth. And trust me, your slippers will thank you!