Puppy teething is a natural but challenging phase for both puppies and their owners. As your puppy’s baby teeth begin to fall out and adult teeth come in, you may notice an increase in chewing and discomfort. This is a normal part of your puppy’s development, but it can be tough on both of you. Understanding what your puppy is going through and knowing how to help can make this stage much smoother. Here’s how you can help your pup through the teething process.
1. Understanding the Puppy Teething Timeline
Before diving into tips, it’s important to understand the timeline of puppy teething. Puppies typically start teething around three to four weeks of age when their baby teeth begin to emerge. These “milk teeth” are sharp and small, and by the time your puppy is six to eight weeks old, they will have a full set of 28 baby teeth. However, the real challenge begins when these teeth start falling out around 12 to 16 weeks to make way for their 42 adult teeth. This teething phase can last until your puppy is six to eight months old.
During this time, your puppy may experience sore gums and an overwhelming urge to chew on anything they can find. Understanding that this discomfort is temporary and knowing how to alleviate it can make a significant difference in your puppy’s well-being.
2. Provide Safe Chew Toys
One of the best ways to soothe puppy teething discomfort is by offering safe chew toys. Chewing is a natural response to the irritation in your puppy’s gums, and providing appropriate chew toys can help satisfy this urge in a safe manner. Look for toys specifically designed for teething puppies, as they’re made to be gentle on gums while satisfying the urge to chew. These toys often have different textures that can help massage the gums and relieve discomfort.
Rubber toys, especially those that can be filled with treats or peanut butter, are excellent options. Some toys are even designed to be frozen, adding an extra layer of relief for your puppy’s sore gums. Just be sure to choose toys that are durable and size-appropriate for your puppy to prevent choking hazards.
3. Offer Frozen Treats
Frozen treats can be incredibly soothing for a teething puppy. The coldness helps to numb the gums and reduce swelling, providing relief during the puppy teething process. You can freeze some of your puppy’s favorite treats or even a wet washcloth. Many owners find that freezing dog-safe vegetables like carrots can be an excellent way to provide relief and a healthy snack.
Another option is to freeze a mixture of water and low-sodium broth in ice cube trays. These cubes can be given to your puppy to lick and chew, providing both hydration and comfort. Always supervise your puppy when offering frozen items to ensure they don’t break off large pieces that could become choking hazards.
4. Keep Personal Items Out of Reach
Puppies going through teething will chew on almost anything they can find, from shoes to furniture. This behavior is their way of exploring their environment and alleviating gum discomfort. To protect your belongings and keep your puppy safe, it’s important to puppy-proof your home during the teething phase.
Make sure to keep valuable and dangerous items out of reach. Shoes, clothing, electrical cords, and small objects that could be swallowed should be stored securely. You may also want to invest in a puppy playpen or use baby gates to restrict your puppy’s access to certain areas of your home. By limiting your puppy’s access to inappropriate chewing targets, you can help prevent accidents and encourage the use of safe chew toys instead.
5. Monitor Their Chewing
While it’s important to let your puppy chew, you should always monitor their chewing habits. Puppies are naturally curious, and they may chew on things that aren’t safe, like sticks, rocks, or even pieces of their toys. Ensure they’re not ingesting pieces of toys or other items that could cause choking or digestive issues.
Regularly inspect your puppy’s chew toys for signs of wear and tear. Replace any toys that have become damaged or have small parts that could break off. If you notice your puppy trying to chew on inappropriate items, gently redirect them to a safe chew toy. Consistent supervision and redirection are key to preventing dangerous chewing behavior.
6. Use Teething Gels
There are various teething gels available that can help soothe your puppy’s gums. These gels are formulated to be safe for dogs and can be applied directly to the gums to reduce inflammation and pain. Be sure to choose products that are specifically designed for puppies and are recommended by veterinarians.
When using teething gels, follow the instructions carefully. It’s important not to overuse these products, as too much can lead to ingestion and stomach upset. If you’re unsure about which product to choose, consult with your veterinarian for recommendations.
7. Stay Patient and Positive
Remember that puppy teething is a temporary phase. It can be frustrating to deal with chewed-up shoes and furniture, but with patience and proper care, your puppy will soon have a full set of adult teeth and will be past the uncomfortable teething stage. Your puppy’s need to chew will decrease over time, and you can look forward to a calmer and more relaxed companion.
During this time, it’s important to remain patient and positive. Yelling or punishing your puppy for chewing is not effective and can create fear or anxiety. Instead, focus on reinforcing good behavior by praising your puppy when they chew on appropriate items. Consistent positive reinforcement will help your puppy learn what is acceptable to chew on and will strengthen your bond.
Worried about your puppy’s teething? At 108 Avenue Animal Hospital, we can provide expert advice and products to make the puppy teething phase easier for both you and your furry friend. Schedule a consultation today and let us help you and your pup get through this challenging time with ease.
