As a new puppy parent, you may not be prepared for the havoc that teething can wreak on your little one. From drooling and chewing everything in sight to whining and refusing food, teething can be a real challenge.
But with this survival guide, you'll know what to do when your pup starts cutting teeth. Plus, we'll give you some ideas for bones to help soothe their sore gums. Keep reading for everything you need to make sure your furry friend feels better during this challenging time!
The Symptoms to Look Out for Teething Puppies
Puppies will typically start teething around 3-4 months of age, and the process can last until they're around 6-7 months old. There are many symptoms that can help you determine when your puppy is teething. Here are some of the symptoms to look out for:
1. Pawing at the mouth and drooling excessively
Excessive drooling and pawing at the mouth are two common symptoms of teething in puppies. If you notice your puppy is doing either of these things more frequently than usual, it may be a sign that their teeth are starting to come in.
2. Chewing on hard surfaces and toys
Teething can be a painful process for puppies, so you may also notice that your pup is more irritable than usual or is trying to chew on everything in sight.
It's also normal for puppies to want to chew on things as their teeth come in. This is because the act of chewing helps relieve the discomfort they're feeling from their gums.
3. Biting on people's hands, feet, or clothes
While it's tempting to let your puppy chew on your hand or clothes, this can lead to behavioral problems down the road. It's important to provide your puppy with plenty of safe and sturdy toys to chew on instead.
This will help satisfy their need to chew while also teaching them what is and isn't appropriate to chew on. Biting or chewing on people's hands, feet, or clothes should only be allowed if the puppy is gentle and there is no risk of breaking the skin. If your puppy is getting too rough, it's best to redirect them to a toy instead.
A perfect example of a toy they can chew on isBetterBone! It’s non-toxic, and the perfect toy even for aggressive chewers.
Another thing to remember is that teething puppies can be a little more delicate than regular dogs and cats. They have been known to get sicker easily so it is very important that their health gets checked often by the vet.
Solutions to Relieve a Teething Puppy
An easy fix is to give your puppy a bone to gnaw on, but this can actually do more harm than good. To help soothe your teething puppy, here are a few safe and effective solutions:
First, try offering them cold objects such as frozen carrots or ice cubes wrapped in a towel. These items provide relief for sore gums while also being safe for your puppy to mouth.
Second, you can give them small dog chews, which are designed specifically for teething puppies. Just be sure to supervise your puppy while they are chewing, as these can be a choking hazard if swallowed.
Lastly, applying pressure to the gums can help to reduce inflammation and pain. You can do this by gently rubbing or massaging the area.
With a little patience and the right approach, you can help your teething puppy through this difficult phase.
Bones Suitable for Teething Puppies
There are many different types of bones that can be given to a teething puppy, but not all of them are equally safe or suitable.
Cooked bones, for example, can splinter and cause choking or other serious injuries and they should always be avoided. Raw bones, on the other hand, are much softer and can be easily chewed into smaller pieces, making them a much safer option.
Another type of bone that is often given to teething puppies is a chew toy made from rubber or other non-toxic materials—just likeBetterBone.
These toys are specifically designed to be safe for puppies to chew on, and they can help to soothe sore gums and nervous chewing habits.
Ultimately, the best type of bone for a teething puppy will depend on the individual puppy's needs and preferences, that’s why it is important to experiment with different options to find what works best.
We got the best bone for your teething pup!
If you’re looking for the best dog chew toy on the market, look no further than BetterBone. The rubber construction is tough enough to withstand hours of chewing, while the unique design helps keep your dog’s teeth healthy and sparkling clean.
Plus, there are two different size options to choose from so you can find the perfect fit for your furry friend. Give your pup something he or she will love with aBetterBone today!
