Teething can be a challenging period for both pet owners and their puppies. Our Elk Grove vets have shared some tips to help alleviate your pup's tooth pain and make the teething process more manageable.
Puppy Teething
Dealing with a teething puppy can be challenging as they tend to chew on almost everything they encounter.
However, it is important to understand that this behavior is not a result of their bad habits but an attempt to relieve the discomfort and pain caused by the growth of adult teeth.
While it may be frustrating to have your shoes, furniture, or other belongings destroyed, chewing can provide relief to your pup's sore mouth.
When do puppies start teething?
Breeds vary, but typically, puppies get their first set of teeth at about five to six weeks old. When they reach 16 weeks, their needle-sharp baby teeth begin to fall out, and their adult teeth appear. When your dog is six to seven months old, it should have all 42 adult teeth.
How long does puppy teething last?
Puppies undergo a teething phase that typically lasts four to five months. During this period, they may experience intense discomfort in their gums, leading to a strong urge to chew on anything, including furniture legs, expensive footwear, or even fingers.
How can I help my puppy with teething pain?
To help your furry friend cope with teething and to protect your possessions, our veterinary team at Bruceville Pet Hospital suggests several tips and tricks that you can try.
Edible Teething Sticks for Puppies
Numerous trustworthy dog food brands provide edible puppy teething treats and bones to alleviate your puppy's mouth pain. Your veterinarian may suggest a specific treat for your little dog, or you can visit your nearby pet store to select from various flavors and sizes. Choosing an appropriately sized treat for your puppy is essential to ensure they have the most beneficial experience.
Place Teething Toys in the Freezer
Similar to teething babies, puppies may experience discomfort while teething. Therefore, they often find relief by chewing on cold or frozen items. Although pet stores offer a variety of teething-specific toys, you can freeze almost any dog toy to alleviate your pup's pain. Kongs, rubber bones, and soft toys designed specifically for dogs are all excellent options.
Offer Your Pup Extra Durable Chew Toys
Consider this revised version: "Specific puppy teething bones, such as those offered by brands like Nylabone, are appropriately sized for small, medium, and large breeds. These bones can also be flavored to help encourage your puppy away from your valuables and toward a tasty, chewy treat, promoting healthy chewing habits and providing pain relief simultaneously.
Frozen Foods for Puppies to Chew
Before offering your puppy frozen food, always consult your vet to ensure it's safe and healthy. Some good options include frozen bagels, carrots, and other veggies.
Preventing Your Puppy From Biting
Nipping and biting are typical behaviors in puppy play. When one puppy bites another too hard, the hurt pup will let out a high-pitched yelp.
If your young pup is nipping and biting at you, it's important to stop this behavior before it gets out of hand. One effective approach is to mimic the yelp of a hurt puppy when your little friend digs its teeth into you. A loud little 'OW' in a high-pitched voice should startle your puppy and cause it to back off. When your puppy stops and backs off, be sure to offer a reward for their good behavior.
If this approach leads your puppy to nip at you more aggressively, quietly stop playing with your puppy and walk away, or gently put your pup in their crate for some quiet time.
Note: The advice provided in this post is intended for informational purposes and does not constitute medical advice regarding pets. Please make an appointment with your vet to accurately diagnose your pet's condition.