Bringing a puppy home is so much fun. They are soft and playful. But soon, you may notice your puppy bites everything. Your shoes, your fingers, the furniture! Do not worry. Your puppy is not being bad. They are just teething.
Teething is when a puppy gets new teeth. All puppies go through this. It can be hard for them and for you. This guide will help you understand puppy teething. You will learn the symptoms. You will find out about safe puppy teething sticks. We will share tips for puppy teething relief. Let's make this time easier for your new friend.
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What is Puppy Teething?
Puppies are born without teeth. Their baby teeth start to come in when they are about three weeks old. They get 28 baby teeth. These teeth are very sharp.
When a puppy is three to six months old, they loses its baby teeth. Their adult teeth start to grow in. They will get 42 adult teeth. This process is called teething. It can be uncomfortable for the puppy. Their gums feel sore and itchy. Chewing helps them feel better.
Puppy Teething Symptoms
How can you tell if your puppy is teething? Look for these common signs:
Lots of Chewing: This is the biggest sign. Your puppy will chew on anything they can find. They chew to help the new teeth break through their gums.
Drooling: You might see more wetness around their mouth. They might drool on their toys or your floor.
Finding Tiny Teeth: Sometimes you will find a little tooth on the floor. It looks like a small, white speck. You may not always find them. Many puppies swallow their baby teeth. This is normal and safe.
Red or Swollen Gums: Look inside their mouth. Their gums may look redder than usual. They might be a little puffy.
Whining or Crying: Some puppies fuss a bit because their mouth hurts.
Less Interest in Food: Their mouth is sore. Hard kibble might be hard to eat. They may eat more slowly or not want to eat.
Blood on Toys: You might see small spots of blood on their chew toys. This is common. It happens when a baby tooth falls out.
Safe Puppy Teething Sticks and Chews
Chewing is good for a teething puppy. It helps their teeth come in. But you must give them safe things to chew. Here are the best puppy teething sticks:
Rubber Chew Toys: Toys like Kongs are great. You can put soft food inside and freeze it. The cold feels good on their gums.
Soft Puppy Chew Sticks: Buy chews made just for puppies. They are softer than adult chews.
Frozen Washcloth: This is a cheap and easy option. Soak a clean washcloth in water. Twist it and put it in the freezer. Give the frozen cloth to your puppy. They can chew on the cold fabric. It helps their sore gums.
Dental Chews for Puppies: Some chews are made to clean teeth. Ask your vet for a good brand.
Important: Never give your puppy hard chews. Do not give real bones, antlers, or hard nylon bones. These are too hard for puppy teeth. They can break a puppy's tooth.
Puppy Teething Relief: How to Soothe the Pain
You want to help your puppy feel better. Here are simple ways to give them relief:
Use Cold Items: Cold numbs sore gums. Give them frozen toys or a frozen washcloth. You can also give them ice cubes to play with.
Offer Soft Food: If their mouth is very sore, soften their kibble. Add a little warm water to their dry food. Let it sit for a few minutes. This makes it easier to eat.
Puppy-Proof Your Home: Keep your shoes and socks picked up. Hide electrical cords. Give your puppy their own safe toys to chew. This saves your things.
Gentle Gum Massage: Wash your hands. Gently rub your puppy's gums with your finger. This can feel very soothing to them.
Redirect Biting: If your puppy bites your hand, say "ouch!" in a calm voice. Then, give them a toy right away. This teaches them to chew toys, not people.
What Not to Do
Do not punish your puppy for chewing. They are not trying to be bad. They are just in pain. Punishment will only make them scared of you.
Do not pull things out of their mouth harshly. This can turn into a scary game. Teach them to "drop it" for a treat instead.
Conclusion
Puppy teething is a normal stage. It does not last forever. With your help, your puppy will get through it. Remember the symptoms: chewing, drooling, and sore gums. Give them safe, cold things to chew on. Be patient when they nip. Always choose soft chews made for puppies.
Soon, all 42 adult teeth will be in. The chewing will slow down. You will have a happy, healthy dog. Enjoy your time with your puppy. Give them lots of love during this tough time. You are helping them grow up strong.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How long does a puppy's teething last?
Puppy teething lasts for a few months. It usually starts around 3 months old. It often ends by 6 or 7 months old. By then, all their adult teeth should be in.
How to tell when a puppy starts teething?
Look for the signs. They will start chewing everything more. You might see them drooling. Their gums may look red. You could find a tiny tooth on the floor. This often starts when they are 3 to 4 months old.
How long is the teething stage in puppies?
The main teething stage typically lasts about 3 to 4 months. The worst chewing is often between 4 and 6 months of age. After 6 months, it gets much better.
How will I know if my puppy is teething?
You will know because they chew more than before. They might drool or be fussy. Check their mouth. If they are between 3 and 6 months old and have red, swollen gums, they are likely teething. Finding a baby tooth is a sure sign.