Bringing home a new puppy is an exciting adventure, but it’s not all cuddles and playtime. One phase every puppy goes through is teething — and for both pet parents and pups, it can be a challenging time. If your little furball is suddenly chewing on shoes, furniture, or even your hands, you’re probably facing classic puppy teething troubles.
Understanding this stage and learning how to manage it properly will help your puppy feel more comfortable and protect your home from becoming a chew toy! In this guide, we’ll cover what teething looks like, how long it lasts, and the safest ways to help your pup feel better.
What Are Puppy Teething Troubles? 🍼
Puppy teething troubles usually begin when your puppy is around 3 weeks old and intensify once they come home around 8 weeks of age. During this time, their baby teeth (also called milk teeth) start falling out, making way for their 42 adult teeth. This process can cause discomfort, itching, and sore gums — all of which make your puppy want to chew anything they can find.
You might notice:
- Increased chewing and biting behavior
- Drooling more than usual
- Swollen or bleeding gums
- Whining or irritability
- Loss of interest in food or toys that are too hard
While this is a natural stage, it’s important to manage puppy teething troubles with care and the right tools.
How Long Does Puppy Teething Last? ⏳
The teething process begins as early as 3 weeks (with baby teeth) and continues until about 6 months of age when adult teeth are fully in place. The most intense period tends to be between 12 and 20 weeks of age. During this window, puppies often chew excessively as a way to relieve their sore gums.
Every puppy is different, and some may breeze through teething while others struggle more. Either way, being prepared can make the experience easier for everyone involved.
Safe Ways to Soothe Sore Puppy Gums 🧊🐾
When it comes to soothing your pup’s sore mouth, safety should always be your top priority. Here are vet-approved ways to ease your puppy’s teething discomfort.
1. Provide Teething Toys
Chew toys are essential during this phase. Look for rubber or silicone toys made specifically for teething puppies. These are soft enough not to damage their delicate gums but firm enough to offer relief.
Tip: Chill the toy in the fridge before giving it to your pup — the cold helps reduce inflammation and soothes irritated gums.
2. Frozen Treats 🍦
Another great way to tackle puppy teething troubles is with frozen treats. Try freezing a wet washcloth or offering ice cubes made from low-sodium chicken broth. These not only provide relief but can be a tasty distraction too.
Just be sure the treats are small enough not to pose a choking hazard and that your pup is supervised while chewing.
3. Massage Their Gums 🖐️
Gently massaging your puppy’s gums with a clean finger or soft cloth can provide instant relief. This can also help desensitize them to having their mouth touched — a skill that comes in handy during future vet visits or tooth brushing sessions.
4. Avoid Unsafe Items
Not everything that’s chewable is safe. Avoid bones, sticks, hard nylon toys, and anything that could splinter or break into small parts. These items can damage your pup’s teeth or lead to choking.
Also steer clear of household items like shoes, cords, or furniture legs. Reinforce positive chewing by praising your puppy when they chew appropriate toys.
5. Try Puppy Teething Gels (Optional)
Some pet stores and vets offer puppy-safe teething gels made with natural ingredients like chamomile. These may help numb sore gums, but always check with your vet before using any product.
Managing Behavior During Teething 😬
Puppy teething troubles don’t just affect your pup’s mouth — they can influence their behavior, too. Chewing can become excessive or destructive, and some puppies may nip more than usual. Be patient, and remember that this phase doesn’t last forever.
Here’s how to handle it:
- Redirect chewing to appropriate toys every time
- Puppy-proof your home to remove tempting items
- Use positive reinforcement (treats and praise) when they chew the right things
- Avoid punishment — your puppy isn’t being “bad,” they’re just uncomfortable
Consistency is key. The more you guide your puppy with love and patience, the quicker they’ll learn what’s okay to chew.
When to Call the Vet 🏥
Most teething symptoms are completely normal, but there are times when a vet’s input is necessary. Call your vet if you notice:
- Persistent bleeding from the mouth
- Swelling that doesn’t go down
- A foul odor from the mouth
- Broken or misaligned teeth
- Your puppy isn’t eating for more than a day
A quick dental check can ensure everything is progressing normally.
Final Thoughts 🐾
Puppy teething troubles can be frustrating, but they’re a completely natural part of your pup’s development. With the right tools and a little patience, you can help your puppy navigate this stage safely and comfortably.
Offer teething toys, frozen goodies, and gentle gum massages to ease their discomfort — and remember, your guidance now lays the foundation for healthy adult teeth and good chewing habits later on.
Soon enough, those sharp little teeth will be a thing of the past, and you’ll have a happy, healthy pup with a winning smile! Petsdogpuppy