Why Puppies Tend to Be More Bitey During Teething
Teething is a natural developmental stage every puppy undergoes as they grow from newborns into mature dogs. Much like human infants, puppies experience discomfort when their baby teeth fall out and adult teeth begin to emerge. One of the most noticeable behaviors during this stage is excessive chewing or biting.
Understanding the Puppy Teething Timeline
- 2–4 weeks of age: Puppies begin developing their baby teeth, also called deciduous or milk teeth.
- 6–8 weeks of age: Most puppies have all 28 baby teeth and begin transitioning to solid food.
- 12–16 weeks of age: The teething process intensifies as baby teeth fall out, making way for 42 permanent adult teeth.
- 6–7 months of age: Adult teeth are typically fully erupted. Any remaining baby teeth should be evaluated by a veterinarian.
Why Puppies Bite More During Teething
Teething causes sore and inflamed gums, leading puppies to chew and bite as a soothing behavior. This natural instinct helps ease the irritation caused by erupting teeth. Items commonly chewed include furniture, shoes, and human hands. It's an essential part of exploring their world, but it can be challenging for pet owners.
Common Symptoms of Teething
- Increased chewing and biting
- Drooling
- Minor gum bleeding or finding small teeth on the floor
- Bad breath due to gum inflammation
- Decreased appetite
- Mild behavioral changes, such as increased mouthiness or irritability
Effective Ways to Manage Teething Behavior
Helping your puppy through teething requires patience and preparation:
- Provide safe chew options: Soft rubber toys, freezable chews, and edible puppy-safe treats are excellent choices.
- Offer frozen items: Dog-safe items like frozen carrots can numb gums and provide relief.
- Avoid overly hard toys: Skip bones, antlers, and hard nylon toys that can damage baby or adult teeth.
- Supervise games with rope toys: Discard if frays or ingestion occurs.
Redirecting Unwanted Chewing
Prevent inappropriate chewing by:
- Removing access to personal belongings, furniture, and cords
- Providing similar textured chew toys as alternatives
- Rewarding calm behavior and reinforcing good chewing habits
Training Tips for Biting
If your puppy nips during play:
- Use a high-pitched “OW” to mimic a hurt littermate
- Withdraw attention immediately to discourage biting
- Reward gentle behavior positively
Dental Care During and After Teething
Start dental routines early to establish healthy habits:
- Handle your puppy’s mouth regularly to get them used to oral care
- Use dog-specific toothpaste—human products can be toxic
- Ask your vet to demonstrate proper brushing techniques and recommend dental chews
Special Dental Considerations
Some breeds, especially small or brachycephalic ones, may retain baby teeth. This can lead to:
- Malocclusion or misaligned teeth
- Discomfort while eating
- Increased risk of periodontal disease
Retained baby teeth usually require removal, often done during spaying or neutering.
When to Consult Your Veterinarian
Contact your vet if you notice:
- Retained teeth past seven months
- Persistent swelling or bleeding
- Severe discomfort
- Excessive drooling
- Difficulty eating
- Foul mouth odor
Timely dental checks help ensure your puppy grows into adulthood with strong, healthy teeth.
Conclusion
Puppies become more bitey during teething because they experience discomfort that chewing helps alleviate. Understanding, patience, and the right care strategies can help you guide your puppy through this challenging stage—and set them on the path to a healthy adulthood.
