Teething is a normal part of puppy development, but it can be uncomfortable—for both your puppy and your furniture. Knowing the signs of teething and how to help your puppy through it can make the process smoother and less stressful for everyone involved.
When Does Teething Start?
Puppies typically begin teething around 3 weeks old when their baby teeth start to emerge. However, teething becomes most noticeable between 12 to 24 weeks when adult teeth start to replace baby teeth. By about 6 months, most puppies will have a full set of adult teeth.
Common Signs Your Puppy Is Teething
1. Excessive Chewing
Puppies often chew more during teething to relieve discomfort. You may notice them biting furniture, shoes, or anything they can reach.
2. Drooling
Increased saliva production is normal while teeth are erupting. If your puppy is drooling more than usual but appears otherwise healthy, teething is a likely cause.
3. Red or Swollen Gums
You might see redness or mild swelling around the gums. Occasionally, a small amount of bleeding may occur, especially after chewing hard objects.
4. Decreased Appetite
Mouth discomfort may cause a temporary dip in your puppy’s appetite, especially for dry kibble. Offer softer food if needed, but contact your vet if appetite loss is significant or prolonged.
5. Whining or Irritability
Teething can make puppies fussier than usual. They may whine, seem restless, or become more sensitive to handling.
6. Missing Teeth
You may find tiny baby teeth on the floor, in their bed, or stuck in toys. It’s completely normal for puppies to lose their baby teeth during this stage.
What to Do During Teething
1. Provide Safe Chew Toys
Offer toys designed specifically for teething puppies. Good options include:
- Rubber or silicone teething toys
- Soft rope toys
- Frozen washcloths (dampened and frozen for a soothing effect)
Avoid bones, antlers, or overly hard chews that could damage developing teeth.
2. Keep Valuables Out of Reach
Protect furniture, shoes, cords, and other items from puppy teeth. Crate training or playpens can help control chewing habits when you’re not supervising.
3. Soothe Sore Gums
Cold helps reduce inflammation. You can:
- Freeze puppy-safe toys
- Chill their kibble or wet food
- Offer ice cubes (under supervision)
Always monitor to avoid choking hazards.
4. Maintain Oral Hygiene
Brush your puppy’s teeth a few times a week using:
- A soft-bristled toothbrush
- Dog-safe toothpaste (never human toothpaste)
Start early to help them get used to dental care.
5. Visit the Vet if Needed
If your puppy shows signs of:
- Severe pain
- Swollen face or jaw
- Persistent bad breath
- No improvement after a few days
…it’s time to consult a veterinarian. Occasionally, baby teeth may not fall out properly and need to be removed.
Final Thoughts
Teething is a normal phase, but it can test your patience. By understanding the signs and offering the right support, you’ll help your puppy through this critical developmental stage while building good habits for lifelong dental health. PetsDogPuppy
