It’s no secret that puppies go through a teething phase. As they start to lose their baby teeth and grow new adult teeth, they can become extra fussy and mouthy.
While there isn’t much you can do to make the process entirely painless for your puppy, there are a few things you can do to help make it a little easier.
Your puppy will need to chew to ease the discomfort and the easier that you can make the process the better. Think of soft, cold items that will relieve the pain. A tea towel, soaked in water, knotted and frozen for a few hours, makes an ideal chew toy for a teething puppy.
When do puppies start teething?
Between the ages of three and six months, pups begin to teethe.
They chew whatever they can get their hands on around the house in order to relieve the discomfort and agony caused by tooth pressure.
How can an owner help a teething puppy?
Chew toys and simple aids like ice cubes can help to relieve the discomfort of teething in puppies.
Chew toys are made from hard rubber or plastic and are not harmful to teeth and gums while they’re growing.
Puppies love to chew on these chew toys as they help relieve teething pain and keep them occupied while also keeping them away from damaging household items like furniture and shoes.
When it comes to games and toys, you should choose ones that your dog likes to play with and, with many puppies, you will only be able to work out what he likes by trying a few different chew toys.
Simple rope toys like rings and teething rattle can be soaked in chicken or beef stock and then popped into the freezer or fridge for a few hours.
This will make a fun toy and your puppy will enjoy the smell and the taste and the cool, soothing aspect will help with teething.
A simple and cheap way to help a teething puppy
A great, cheap and effective trick is to take an old tea towel or something of a similar texture, soak it in water and then put it into the freezer for a few hours.
If you tie it into a knot before you put it in for freezing then you’ll create a nice, interesting and soothing chew for your puppy.
It is a simple technique, it involves no expense and is easy to do.
If you want to create a bit more interest for your puppy then, as mentioned above, soak it in a solution of OXO or Bisto before you freeze it, to make it more appealing to your young dog.
Massage your puppy’s mouth
One thing that you can try with your teething puppy is a puppy jaw massage.
Yes, I know it sounds bizarre but this can help a puppy that is struggling with teething.
Gently massage your puppy’s gums with a finger or gentle dog toothbrush dipped in cold or icy water.
If you are gentle then this will help to soothe the discomfort that your puppy is experiencing and will also help him to become familiar to having his teeth brushed when he is older.
Talk to your vet
Your vet is always the best source of advice and information when it comes to caring for the health and wellbeing of your puppy.
Teething is a stage of life that every puppy experiences and some fare better than others.
Your vet will be familiar with the demands of teething in young dogs and will be able to help your puppy if he/she is experiencing discomfort or other problems.
Always talk to your vet if you have concerns.
FAQs
How can I help soothe my teething puppy’s discomfort?
Offer appropriate chew toys made specifically for teething puppies to help relieve their sore gums.
Provide cold items like frozen carrots or wet washcloths for them to chew on, as the coldness can help numb the pain.
Consider using teething gels or sprays recommended by your veterinarian to alleviate discomfort.
Are there any natural remedies to help my teething puppy?
Frozen or chilled washcloths can provide relief to your puppy’s sore gums.
Natural rubber or silicone chew toys can be helpful, as they are gentle on the teeth and gums.
Supervised outdoor play with safe objects like sticks or ropes can encourage chewing, relieving teething discomfort.
How can I prevent my teething puppy from damaging furniture or belongings?
Puppy-proof your home by removing valuable items and providing safe chew toys as alternatives.
Keep your puppy entertained with interactive toys or puzzle feeders to redirect their chewing behaviour.
Consider using bitter apple sprays or other pet-safe deterrents on furniture or items you want to protect from chewing.
Final words
Teething can be a difficult time for puppies, but with the right advice and support they will get through it.
There are a number of things that you can do to help your puppy, from providing appropriate chew toys to massaging his gums to home made solutions such as frozen, knotted tea towels..
Talk to your vet if you have any concerns about your puppy’s teething.
