Puppy teething can be a difficult time for parents; the pain caused by teething often leads puppies to chew on anything and everything in an effort to relieve their discomfort. Here are a few tips from our Knightdale vets on how to help your puppy through teething.
Why is my puppy biting me and chewing on everything?
To relieve pain in their mouths while teething, puppies, like human infants, will bite and chew on objects. When you're constantly trying to keep your furniture (and fingers) safe from little chompers, puppy teething can seem like a long process. It is important, however, to remain calm and remember that they are only trying to make themselves feel better.
When do puppies start teething?
Puppies, regardless of breed, usually have their first set of teeth between the ages of 5 and 6. Around the age of 4 months, your dog's razor-sharp baby teeth will begin to fall out, and adult teeth will begin to erupt.
How long does puppy teething last?
So, exactly how long do puppies teethe? By the time your puppy reaches 6-7 months of age they should have their full set of adult teeth and teething should be a thing of the past. In the meantime, our Knightdale vets offer some puppy teething advice to help you and your pup get through this rough stage:
Store Some Puppy Friendly Teething Toys in the Freezer
Puppies, like teething infants, often discover that chewing on cold or frozen objects relieves their pain. Teething toys are available at most pet stores, but you can freeze almost any dog toy to make your pup feel better. Soft toys and rubber bones are excellent dog toys.
Offer Your Pup Extra Durable Chew Toys
The flavor-infused, breed-specific puppy teething bones sold by companies such as Nylabone can benefit small, medium, and large breeds. You can promote healthy chewing habits while also relieving pain by having your puppy chew on a tasty treat rather than your bland-smelling valuables.
Edible Teething Sticks for Puppies
To relieve your pet's mouth pain, many reputable dog food companies sell edible puppy teething treats and bones. You can get one specifically for your small dog from your veterinarian, or you can go to your local pet store and choose from a variety of flavors and sizes. Choose the right size for your dog to get the most out of the teething treat.
Healthy Frozen Foods For Puppies to Chew
Puppies love to chew on frozen toys and eat frozen treats. Both apple slices and frozen carrots are acceptable options. Always consult your veterinarian before giving your dog new "human" food.
My puppy keeps biting me, what should I do?
Nipping and biting are how puppies naturally play. When one puppy bites another too hard, the hurt pup will let out a high-pitched yelp.
It is critical to stop your puppy's biting and nipping before it becomes out of control. When your pet bites you, try imitating a distressed puppy's yelp. Startle and frighten your puppy into backing off with a loud little 'ow' in a high-pitched voice. Reward your puppy for good behavior when they stop and back off.
If this approach leads your puppy to nip at you more aggressively, quietly stop playing with your puppy and walk away or gently put your pup in their crate for some quiet time.
Note: The advice provided in this post is intended for informational purposes and does not constitute medical advice regarding pets. For an accurate diagnosis of your pet's condition, please make an appointment with your vet.