Dealing with puppy teething can be a challenge, but knowing when your puppy will start teething – and how to help them through this phase – will make the process much easier.
Teething is an important developmental stage for puppies, but it can lead to them chewing on anything and everything. Here’s how to help your puppy – and your furniture – through this phase.
When do puppies lose their teeth?
Puppies get their baby teeth at around three to six weeks old – before they go home with their new owners. But when do puppy teeth fall out, and when do puppies start teething? Puppies start to lose their baby teeth at around three months old, as their adult teeth erupt. This is when the real challenge begins.
When do puppies stop teething?
Puppies will usually have all their adult teeth by the time they’re six months old, but some may continue to chew things until they’re over a year old, as their new teeth settle in. This period can be hard on all of you – and your furniture.
Puppy teething symptoms
Just as it is for human babies, teething can be painful for puppies. To ease the discomfort, your puppy may start to chew on something. This might include your hands, furniture, their paws or anything else they can find.
During this time you might notice your puppy has red or sore gums. Occasionally, you might see a small amount of blood in their mouth or on something they’ve chewed.
What can I do to help my puppy at teething time?
Teething can be challenging, but you can do plenty to keep your puppy as happy and comfortable as possible.
1. Keep your puppy active and busy
Sometimes chewing is caused by boredom as opposed to teething. Make sure your puppy has plenty of mental and physical stimulation each day. This can include short walks, training sessions and fun games like hide-and-seek or fetch.
2. Use puppy teething toys
Offering your puppy a toy designed for teething can help ease their discomfort. Some of these toys have textured areas designed to massage their gums or can be placed in the freezer first. Make sure to choose a toy that’s suitable for your puppy’s breed and size. Always check toys carefully for signs of wear and tear, and replace them if you see any damage.
Offering your puppy a wide selection of toys to choose from means they’re less likely to get bored and start chewing something they shouldn’t. Rubber KONG toys stuffed with treats can also help distract puppies and keep them mentally and physically occupied. Keep toys close to hand so you can offer them quickly.
3. Offer them a cold treat
Another way to help your puppy cope with teething, and ensure they have a nutritious snack, is to offer them a frozen carrot to chew on. This can help ease sore teeth and gums but can also improve their dental health. You can also try stuffing a rubber KONG toy with soft dog food or dog-safe peanut butter, or fill it with bone broth and freeze before giving it to your puppy.
4. Reward good behaviour
Never tell your puppy off if they’re chewing something they shouldn’t. Remember that they don’t know they shouldn’t chew certain items, they’re just looking for a way to ease their discomfort. Distract them with a toy, then give them lots of praise when they chew that instead. If your puppy has a positive association with their toys, they’re more likely to chew them rather than something they shouldn’t.
5. Speak to your vet
Teething is a normal process for puppies, but if you’re concerned your dog is suffering beyond ordinary discomfort, it’s best to speak to your vet. They’ll be able to assess your puppy and advise if there’s anything else, like teething gel, that may help.
6. Establish good dental hygiene
As your puppy’s adult teeth start coming through, this is the perfect time to introduce them to having their teeth brushed. Getting your puppy used to having their mouth, gums and teeth touched from a young age will make it much easier to deal with any dental issues as they grow older. These issues are very common, so it’s a good idea to choose a dog insurance plan that covers dental treatment for extra peace of mind.
Do you have any tips for helping puppies (and their owners!) cope with the teething process? Share them on our Facebook page.