The KONG Puppy Medium is a durable rubber chew toy designed specifically for teething puppies. It helps relieve chewing discomfort, provides mental stimulation, and can be filled with treats to encourage healthy chewing habits.
What Is the KONG Puppy Medium?
The KONG Puppy is the specialized version of the classic toy, made with a softer rubber formula that is gentle on baby teeth and gums but durable enough to withstand sharp puppy teeth.
Designed for teething puppies
Between 3 and 6 months of age, puppies experience significant discomfort as their adult teeth come in. The KONG Puppy Medium (check price on Amazon) provides a soothing surface for them to gnaw on, reducing pain and inflammation.
Durable rubber material
Unlike standard rubber toys, the Puppy KONG is made from an all-natural rubber that has more “give.” This prevents the toy from being too hard for developing jaws while still offering the bouncy, erratic movement that puppies love to chase.
Mental stimulation benefits
A KONG is more than a chew toy; it’s a puzzle. Working to get food out of the toy keeps a puppy’s brain engaged, which is just as tiring—and beneficial—as a short walk.
What Size Puppies Should Use KONG Puppy Medium?
Choosing the right size is critical for safety. A toy that is too small can be a choking hazard, while one that is too large may be difficult for the puppy to enjoy.
| Puppy Weight | Recommended KONG Size |
| Under 15 lbs | Small |
| 15–35 lbs | Medium |
| Over 35 lbs | Large |
Note: For breeds that grow very quickly, always size up if your puppy is nearing the weight limit.
Benefits of KONG Toys for Puppies
Helps with teething
The soft rubber formula is perfect for sore gums. Chewing on a KONG stimulates blood flow and helps loosen baby teeth that are ready to fall out.
Prevents destructive chewing
If you don’t give your puppy something appropriate to chew on, they will find their own—usually your shoes or furniture. The KONG teaches them what is “legal” to chew.
Provides mental stimulation
Using a KONG during crate training or when you are busy helps prevent separation anxiety by keeping the puppy focused on a rewarding task.
How to Stuff a KONG Puppy Toy
To make the toy last longer, try layering different textures:
- Peanut butter: Use it to seal the small hole or smear it inside the rim. (Ensure it is Xylitol-free!)
- Plain yogurt: A great “binder” that can be mixed with kibble.
- Soft puppy food: The easiest filling for beginners to lick out.
- Frozen treats: For an extra challenge, freeze the stuffed KONG (get more toy options here) for 2 hours before giving it to your pet.
Best Fillings for KONG Puppy Toys
| Safe Filling | Benefit |
| Plain yogurt | Probiotics for easy digestion |
| Peanut butter (xylitol-free) | High-value reward and keeps them busy |
| Wet puppy food | Nutritional and easy to stuff |
| Pumpkin puree | High fiber and very gentle on the stomach |
Are KONG Toys Safe for Puppies?
Material safety
The KONG Puppy rubber is non-toxic and specifically formulated to be safe for a puppy’s developing mouth.
Initial supervision
Always supervise your puppy the first few times they play with a KONG. Watch to ensure they aren’t able to bite off large pieces of the rubber (though this is rare with the correct size).
Choosing the correct size
If the KONG can fit entirely inside your puppy’s mouth, it is too small. The toy should be large enough that they have to work their jaw around it.
Signs Your Puppy Is Ready for a KONG Toy
Teething stage
If you see your puppy gnawing on the edges of tables or your fingers, they are in desperate need of a KONG to soothe their gums.
High chewing behavior
Puppies with high energy levels often use their mouths to explore. A KONG redirects this energy into a productive, quiet activity.
Boredom or destructive chewing
If your puppy is getting into trouble while you are on a work call or cooking dinner, a stuffed KONG is the perfect “pacifier” to keep them occupied.
FAQ: KONG Puppy Toys
Are KONG toys safe for puppies?
Yes, they are widely recommended by veterinarians and trainers as one of the safest and most beneficial toys for developing puppies.
What can I put inside a KONG puppy toy?
You can use kibble, wet food, peanut butter, yogurt, mashed bananas, or specialized KONG Easy Treat paste.
How long should a puppy play with a KONG?
A well-stuffed KONG can keep a puppy busy for 20 to 45 minutes. Once empty, it’s safe for them to continue chewing on the rubber.
Can you freeze a KONG for puppies?
Absolutely! Freezing is highly recommended for teething puppies, as the cold rubber provides extra relief for sore gums.
What size KONG should a puppy use?
Most medium-breed puppies (like Labradors or Goldens) should start with the Medium size, moving to the “Classic Red” or “Extreme Black” as they get older and stronger.
Invest in the right tools now to ensure a lifetime of safe chewing habits for your puppy.
Contact Golden Paw Pet Services today for personalized puppy training and enrichment recommendations tailored to your breed and home life!