Chew Toy Conditioning

The Importance of Continuing Chew Toy Training for Your Eskimoyed Samoyed Puppy

A Guide for Chew Toy Training

Training your Eskimoyed Samoyed puppy is an essential part of raising a well-behaved and happy dog, and chew toy training is a critical component of this process. As your puppy grows, their chewing needs will change, but the importance of providing appropriate outlets for this natural behaviour remains constant. Let’s explore why continuing chew toy training is important and how different types of toys can be utilized to support your puppy’s development.

Why Chew Toy Training Matters

Chewing is a natural behavior for dogs, particularly during their puppy stages when they are exploring the world and going through teething. Just like human babies, dogs explore their world through their mouths. For puppies, especially, the mouth is a primary tool for discovery and learning. They use it to feel textures, taste new things, and even to gauge the boundaries of their environment. This natural behavior is a crucial part of their development, helping them to understand their surroundings and build their sense of security. Just as babies might chew on toys or other objects to soothe their gums and satisfy their curiosity, puppies use their mouths to engage with the world, making chew toys an essential part of their growth and comfort.

Without proper guidance, your Eskimoyed Samoyed might turn to inappropriate items like furniture, shoes, or other household items to satisfy their urge to chew. By continuing chew toy training, you can help your puppy develop healthy chewing habits that will last a lifetime.

Chew toys also play a vital role in dental health by aiding in the shedding of puppy baby teeth. As puppies chew, the pressure helps to loosen and dislodge their baby teeth, which can prevent issues such as retained canines. Retained teeth can lead to misalignment or other dental problems if not addressed. Regularly providing appropriate chew toys ensures that your puppy’s teeth transition smoothly from baby to adult, promoting better oral health.

Providing a variety of chew toys also keeps your puppy mentally stimulated and can prevent boredom-related behaviors. It’s a great way to engage their minds and provide them with a safe and satisfying way to expend their energy.

Types of Chew Toys and Their Benefits

There is a wide range of chew toys available, each offering different benefits. Here are some popular options:

  • Soft Toys: These are great for puppies who enjoy a gentler chew. Look for durable plush toys that can withstand some rough play. Soft toys can be comforting for puppies and are often used as a source of comfort, especially at bedtime. Our recommendation at Eskimoyed Samoyed is the RuffPlay brand!
  • Nylabones: These are tough, long-lasting chew toys made of durable nylon. Nylabones or BeneBone come in various shapes, sizes, and flavors, making them a versatile choice for teething puppies. They help clean teeth and massage gums, making them particularly beneficial during the teething phase.
  • Kongs: These are highly durable rubber toys that can be stuffed with treats or food. Kongs or NERF DOG are excellent for mental stimulation as they challenge your puppy to figure out how to get the treats out. You can fill them with kibble, peanut butter, or even freeze them with yogurt or wet food for a longer-lasting treat.

Kong Filling Ideas:

  • Peanut butter (make sure it’s xylitol-free)
  • Canned pumpkin mixed with kibble
  • Plain Greek yogurt with small pieces of fruit
  • Wet dog food, frozen for an extended challenge

Understanding Puppy Teething

At around 4-5 months of age, your Eskimoyed Samoyed puppy will go through the teething phase, where their adult teeth begin to come in, replacing their baby teeth. This period can be uncomfortable for your puppy, leading to an increased desire to chew as they try to alleviate the discomfort..

Soothing Your Puppy’s Gums

To help soothe your puppy’s gums during teething, you can provide them with cold chew toys. Place soft rubber toys or wet washcloths in the fridge or freezer to cool them down before giving them to your puppy. The cold sensation helps to numb the gums and reduce inflammation, offering your puppy some much-needed relief. Additionally, ice cubes can also serve as a simple and effective way to soothe sore gums.

What to Avoid

When it comes to relieving teething pain, avoid using products not specifically designed for dogs. For instance, Bonjela, a topical gel used to relieve mouth pain in humans, is not recommended for puppies. It contains ingredients that might not be safe for dogs, and there is a risk of adverse reactions. Puppies tend to lick their mouths frequently, which could lead to ingestion and potential gastrointestinal issues or toxicity. Always opt for products and remedies that are formulated for dogs or consult your veterinarian for appropriate advice.

Conclusion

At Eskimoyed Samoyeds, we pride ourselves on establishing effective chew training practices for our puppies. Continuing chew toy training for your Eskimoyed Samoyed puppy is crucial for their development and overall well-being. By providing a variety of appropriate chew toys, you can ensure your puppy has a safe outlet for their chewing instincts and help them navigate the teething phase with ease. Chew toys also support dental health by aiding in the shedding of baby teeth and preventing potential dental issues. For an alternative to chew toys, consider exploring the benefits of raw natural diets, such as chewing bones. Check out our blog on this topic to learn more about how raw diets can complement your puppy’s chewing needs. Remember, a well-trained puppy is a happy puppy, and investing time in their chew toy training will pay off with a well-behaved and content companion for years to come.