Puppies need something that is theirs. A soft toy they can carry, chew gently and sleep against gives a young dog somewhere to put its mouth that is not your sleeve or the corner of the sofa, and having one designated comfort object makes the whole business of settling a new arrival slightly easier on everybody in the house.

This one is chenille, shaped like a smiling pup with floppy ears that are easy for small jaws to grab and shake. The squeaker inside does the work of a reward, because every bite makes something happen, and that is why puppies keep going back to it and why it holds attention longer than a silent plush. Soft enough to be kind on teeth that are still coming through, and light enough to toss for a short indoor game.

• Soft chenille body shaped like a smiling puppy
• Floppy ears that are easy for small mouths to grab
• Built-in squeaker rewards every bite and shake
• Suits cuddling, gentle chewing, fetch and tug
• Gentle on developing puppy teeth
• Choice of blue or yellow

Plush toys are not chew-proof. None of them are, whatever the packaging says. This is built for gentle play, and a serious chewer will open a seam and get to the squeaker and the stuffing, both of which are a swallowing risk. Supervise play, check the seams every few days, and retire the toy once the stuffing starts to show through.

Who it's for: Puppies and small adult dogs who play gently, and owners looking for a comfort toy rather than something to survive a determined destroyer.