How to Soothe a Teething Puppy: A Complete Guide
Puppy teething is a natural part of a dog’s development, but it can be a challenging time for both the pup and the owner. Understanding this stage and how to manage it can make a huge difference in your puppy’s comfort and behavior.
Understanding Puppy Teething
Puppies are born without teeth. Their baby teeth—also called deciduous teeth—begin erupting around 3 weeks of age. By the time they are 6 to 8 weeks old, most puppies have a full set of 28 baby teeth.
Between the ages of 3 and 7 months, these baby teeth start falling out and are replaced by 42 permanent adult teeth. This process can cause discomfort, swelling, and behavioral changes.
Signs Your Puppy Is Teething
- Excessive chewing or nipping
- Increased drooling
- Mild bleeding from gums
- Irritability or restlessness
- Swollen or tender gums
- Loss of appetite
These symptoms are normal, but if your puppy shows signs of excessive bleeding, bad breath, loose adult teeth, or unusual swelling, it may indicate something more serious. Consult a veterinarian in such instances.
Effective Ways to Soothe Teething Pain
To manage your puppy’s teething pain and protect your home from damage, use the following strategies.
1. Provide Appropriate Chew Toys
- Soft rubber toys – Gentle on sore gums and safe for chewing
- Freezable chew toys – Cold toys can reduce inflammation and pain
- Edible dental chews – Provide both relief and dental benefits
- Frozen carrots or wet washcloths – A natural and affordable home remedy
Avoid hard objects such as bones, antlers, and rawhide chews. These can crack or damage developing teeth.
2. Supervise Chewing
Monitor your puppy during chewing sessions to prevent them from swallowing non-edible objects or damaging household possessions.
3. Introduce Dental Hygiene Early
- Use dog-specific toothpaste and soft toothbrushes
- Start brushing their teeth when they are young to create lifelong dental habits
- Schedule regular veterinary dental checkups
4. Train for Bite Inhibition
Teething puppies will often nip during play. Teaching your pup bite inhibition can reduce painful interactions:
- Respond to hard bites with a high-pitched yelp or say “Ouch!”
- Stop playtime temporarily to discourage rough biting
- Redirect biting to appropriate toys
Consistent training and positive reinforcement are key to success.
Dental Development Milestones
- Birth to 2 weeks: No teeth present
- 3 to 4 weeks: Incisors and canines begin erupting
- 5 to 8 weeks: Full set of 28 baby teeth
- 12 to 16 weeks: Baby teeth begin to fall out
- 5 to 7 months: Adult teeth fully developed (42 permanent teeth)
Monitor for Retained Baby Teeth
Sometimes, deciduous teeth do not fall out as they should, a condition known as retained baby teeth. This can lead to:
- Dental misalignment (malocclusion)
- Increased risk of gum disease
- Pain and discomfort
If retained teeth are noticed, veterinary intervention is usually required.
When to Call the Veterinarian
- Persistent drooling or bleeding
- Loss of appetite combined with lethargy
- Severe swelling or signs of infection
- Foul odor from the mouth
- Retention of baby teeth
Professional guidance ensures proper dental development and mitigates long-term issues.
Long-Term Chewing Behavior
Though teething peaks between 3 to 4 months and typically ends by 6 to 7 months, some chewing behavior continues as part of normal canine activity. Ensuring appropriate outlets for this behavior helps maintain your dog’s mental stimulation and dental health.
Conclusion
Understanding the teething process and providing suitable care can significantly improve your puppy’s comfort and prevent unwanted habits. With the right chew toys, training, and veterinary oversight, your puppy can develop healthy teeth and enjoyable chewing habits that last a lifetime.
