Understanding Why Puppies Get Bitey During Teething
Puppy teething is a crucial developmental stage that all dogs go through, typically beginning around 2 to 4 weeks of age and continuing until 6 to 7 months. During this time, puppies develop and then shed their baby teeth to make room for adult teeth. A common and often frustrating symptom for pet owners during this phase is increased biting or mouthiness. This behavior is completely normal and usually temporary.
Why Do Puppies Bite During Teething?
Just like human babies, puppies experience discomfort and soreness in their gums as their teeth come in. Biting and chewing on various objects—including hands, furniture, and toys—helps alleviate this discomfort. The pressure applied by chewing soothes the irritated gums and helps ease pain associated with the teething process.
Signs Your Puppy Is Teething
- Increased chewing and biting behaviors
- Excessive drooling
- Red or inflamed gums
- Occasional minor bleeding from the gums
- Bad breath
- Loss of appetite
- Baby teeth visible on the floor
- Mild behavioral changes like being more nippy or irritable
Puppy Teething Timeline
- 2–4 weeks: Puppies begin growing their first baby teeth while still nursing.
- 6–8 weeks: Most puppies have all 28 baby teeth and start transitioning to solid foods.
- 12–16 weeks: Teething intensifies; puppies begin losing baby teeth and growing adult teeth.
- 6–7 months: Most puppies have all 42 adult teeth; teething behaviors subside.
How to Help a Teething Puppy
Supporting your puppy through teething is key to minimizing discomfort and preventing destructive behavior. Here are some effective strategies:
- Offer appropriate chew toys: Use soft rubber toys or safe ropes designed for teething puppies.
- Use frozen items: Provide frozen carrots or chilled dog-safe toys to numb sore gums.
- Avoid hard chews: Stay away from antlers, bones, or hard nylon toys to prevent broken teeth.
- Supervise and redirect: Keep personal items out of reach and redirect inappropriate chewing to acceptable toys.
- Discourage nipping: Mimic a hurt puppy’s yelp or use a sharp "OW" and stop playing to discourage biting humans.
When to See a Veterinarian
While teething symptoms are usually mild, some situations require veterinary attention:
- Retained baby teeth after 7 months
- Persistent pain or swelling in the gums
- Difficulty eating or excessive drooling
- Unpleasant mouth odor suggesting infection
Developing Good Dental Habits
Teething is a perfect time to start training your puppy to accept dental care:
- Gently handle the puppy’s mouth daily
- Use a soft toothbrush and dog-specific toothpaste
- Incorporate dental chews or treats for oral hygiene
- Schedule regular dental checkups
Breed-Specific Considerations
Some breeds, especially small or brachycephalic (short-nosed) breeds, are more prone to retained baby teeth. These may require surgical removal to prevent dental issues such as malocclusion or gum disease. These procedures are often performed during routine spaying or neutering surgeries.
Long-Term Chewing Behavior
Even after teething ends, dogs continue to chew as a natural behavior. It provides mental stimulation and helps maintain dental health. Encourage safe and appropriate chewing by continuously offering acceptable chew items and providing adequate exercise and mental enrichment.
Conclusion
Puppy biting during teething is a normal and temporary phase driven by physical discomfort. With patience, proper guidance, and suitable chew toys, pet owners can help their puppy navigate this stage while laying the foundation for healthy lifelong habits.
