Watching your puppy go through the teething process can be tough, but there are ways to make it easier for both you and your furry friend.
Remember, this phase will pass, just as many other 'puppy behaviours' will too. Help is always available from dog trainers and your local vet.
From providing appropriate chew toys to managing their discomfort, this guide offers tips and tricks to help your puppy through this challenging time.
Understand the teething process.
Before you can effectively help your puppy through teething, it’s important to understand the process. Puppies typically start teething around 3-4 months old and it can last until they are 6-8 months old. During this time, their baby teeth will fall out and be replaced by adult teeth. This can cause discomfort and pain for your puppy, leading to behaviors like chewing on everything in sight. By understanding what your puppy is going through, you can better prepare and support them during this time.
When do puppies start teething?
Typically, the teething process in puppies spans approximately four months. By the time they reach 7-8 months of age, most of their adult teeth should have emerged. However, if some teeth are still missing at this stage, there's no need to panic.
If your puppy reaches 9 months of age and there are still adult teeth yet to come in, it's a good idea to consult with your veterinarian. They can examine your puppy's mouth and teeth, providing reassurance or recommending any necessary dental interventions.
Provide appropriate chew toys.
One of the best ways to help your puppy through teething is to provide them with appropriate chew toys. These toys should be durable and safe for your puppy to chew on. Avoid toys that are too hard or small, as they can break teeth or pose a choking hazard. Look for toys specifically designed for teething puppies, such as rubber toys or toys with ridges and bumps that can massage their gums. You can also freeze some toys to provide extra relief for your puppy's sore gums. Remember to supervise your puppy while they are chewing to ensure their safety.
Use frozen treats to soothe sore gums.
One way to provide relief for your teething puppy is to offer them frozen treats. You can freeze a variety of items, such as carrots, apples, or even plain yogurt, in ice cube trays or small containers.
These frozen treats can help numb your puppy's sore gums and provide a fun distraction. Just be sure to monitor your puppy while they are enjoying their treat to prevent choking or other hazards.
Train your puppy to redirect biting behaviour.
During teething, puppies may be more prone to biting and chewing on everything in sight. It’s important to train your puppy to redirect this behavior onto appropriate toys and chew items rather than your hand or furniture!
Offer a variety of chew toys and praise your puppy when they choose to chew on them instead of your furniture or shoes. Consistency is key in this training process, so be patient and persistent.
Seek veterinary advice for severe teething issues
While some discomfort and mild bleeding during teething is normal for puppies, severe issues should be addressed by a veterinarian. This can include excessive bleeding, refusal to eat or drink, or signs of infection such as swelling or discharge.
Your vet can provide guidance on pain management and may recommend dental exams or treatments to ensure your puppy’s teeth are growing in properly. Don’t hesitate to seek professional help if you have concerns about your puppy’s teething process.
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