When I first got my puppy Leo, I had no idea how bad the teething process would be. He wanted to chew constantly – destroying my rug, my kitchen table, his puppy toys, a pair of flip flops, the wall and everything else he could sink his teeth into. And every pet store “teething” solution got demolished in a matter of minutes!

Luckily, I eventually discovered some life-saving DIY teething tricks. If you have a new puppy, try these easy solutions to keep his chewing under control – they’ll help his gums feel better, too!

Frozen Carrots

Whether baby carrots or the full-sized variety, many pups love chewing on this healthy treat. Freeze carrots to make them last longer and feel better on their tender gums.

Ice Cubes

My greatest discovery was emptying a tray of ice cubes onto the floor. Not only was it a game for Leo to chase the slippery sliding cube across the wood floor, but once he did the ice in his mouth I’m sure he loved the soothing feeling as he crunched away. Even though Leo is way beyond teething now, he still loves playing with ice cubes.

Frozen Rag

You can make your own teething chew toy with an old rag or wash cloth. Douse it in water, tie it in a knot and throw it in the freezer overnight. Once it’s frozen hard, give it to your dog. He’ll love chewing it and the game of attempting to untie the knot with his teeth should keep him occupied for awhile. Once it melts and becomes soft again, you can douse it in water again and refreeze.

Images: I Go Splat, SoggyDan

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Just rescued a new puppy from the animal shelter? Now what? If you’re not prepared, your apartment could quickly turn into a disaster with your little furry destroyer running the show. Here are five eco-friendly puppy products that will help keep your new pet happy and save your favorite shoes and carpets from destruction all at the same time.

Planet Dog Orbee Tuff Bone for Pups

As your puppy teethes, she’ll try to sink her teeth into everything and anything she can – from your favorite sandals to your dining room table. My little devil even chewed the molding along our floor! But Planet Dog’s sweet pink and blue bones are a perfect and durable alternative for those sharp puppy teeth. Unlike many phlathate-heavy dog toys, they’re made from non-toxic materials in the U.S.

West Paw Designs Eco Nap

While there are lots of eco-friendly dog beds out there, West Paw Design’s Eco Nap is an easy solution for messy pups. You can throw the entire bed in the washing machine and dryer whenever it gets soiled, which will probably be often!

Earthbath Grooming Wipes Especially for Puppies

With digging in the mud, rolling in the dirt, swimming in the lake and one too many icky accidents you can expect to clean some serious grime off your grubby pup. Since you can’t give him a bath everyday, Earthbath’s Grooming Wipes will prove to be beyond handy. Plus, they’re gentle on your pup as they’re free of parabens, perfumes, phthalates, synthetic dyes and phosphates – and vitamin E and aloe vera will help keep his coat nice and shiny.

Zuke’s Mini Naturals

Sit, stay, shake, down, leave it and take it are all commands your pup should soon learn. Your pup will love doing tricks for Zuke’s tasty soft bites in salmon, chicken or peanut butter flavors. They’re made with good-for-your-dog ingredients without wheat, corn or soy that commonly cause allergic reactions in pets. And since they’re tiny – and only two calories each – you don’t have to worry about many times you’re rewarding your good dog.

The Brampton Company Natural Training Pads

Before you pup is housebroken there’s no getting around accidents in the house, especially if you’re living in an apartment building that requires a long elevator trip down to relief. Wee wee pads are a lifesaver and help your dog learn he has a special spot to do his business, but they’re traditionally incredibly wasteful. These Natural Training Pads are made from natural cellulose fiber from trees, tree pulp and a special biodegradable film. The company promises the 100 percent biodegradable pads will decompose faster than an orange peel.

Now you’ll just need to learn the best green ways to clean up after dog accidents!

Image: elvissa

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