When Do Puppies Start Teething?
Puppies typically begin teething around 3 to 4 weeks old, as their baby teeth start to emerge. By the time they reach 12 to 16 weeks of age, they will start losing these baby teeth, making way for their adult teeth. This teething process generally lasts until they are around 6 months old, shaping their chewing habits for the future.
Signs Your Puppy is Teething
As your puppy goes through this natural stage, you might notice several signs of discomfort, including:
- Excessive chewing on furniture, shoes, or toys
- Increased drooling
- Sore or swollen gums
- Irritability and whining
- Loose baby teeth found around your home
- Decreased appetite due to gum discomfort
How to Soothe a Teething Puppy
Dealing with a teething puppy may be challenging, but there are effective ways to help soothe their discomfort:
- Provide safe chew toys that are durable and suitable for your puppy’s age. Look for options like rubber toys and soft teething rings.
- Use frozen treats, such as a damp washcloth, carrot sticks, or dog-safe teething toys to soothe their gums.
- Gently massage their gums with a clean finger or use dog-safe teething gel for relief.
- Offer edible chews, like bully sticks or frozen dog-safe bones, ensuring they are safe to chew.
- Engage in playtime to distract them from chewing destructively.
- Redirect bad chewing habits by calmly guiding them to appropriate toys and rewarding good behavior.
Lastly, remember to avoid giving them hard objects that could result in dental fractures and steer clear of using household items as toys to prevent confusion. Positive reinforcement proves far more effective than harsh discipline. With proper care, your teething puppy will grow into a well-behaved adult dog!
