Watching your adorable puppy grow involves many milestones, including teething. Just like human babies, puppies go through a teething phase where their baby teeth fall out to make way for their adult teeth. Understanding the signs of puppy teething and knowing how to help can make this phase smoother for both you and your furry friend. At Killarney Animal Hospital, we’re here to guide you through this developmental stage and offer tips on how to care for your teething puppy.
What is Puppy Teething?
Puppy teething is a natural process where puppies lose their baby teeth, also known as deciduous teeth, and their adult teeth begin to emerge. This typically starts around 3 to 4 months of age and continues until they are about 6 months old. During this time, your puppy may experience discomfort and irritation as their teeth come in.
Signs of Puppy Teething
- Chewing and Gnawing: One of the most common signs of puppy teething is increased chewing behavior. Your puppy may chew on anything they can get their teeth on—furniture, shoes, and even your fingers! This helps relieve the discomfort caused by teething.
- Drooling: You may notice your puppy drooling more than usual during teething. This is because teething can stimulate saliva production.
- Irritability: Teething puppies can be a bit more irritable or agitated than usual. They may seem more restless or have difficulty sleeping.
- Loss of Appetite: Some puppies may temporarily lose their appetite or be less interested in their food during teething. This is usually due to the discomfort in their mouth.
- Red or Swollen Gums: As new teeth emerge, your puppy’s gums may appear red, swollen, or even bleed slightly. This is normal but should not be excessive.
How to Help Your Teething Puppy
- Provide Chew Toys: Giving your puppy appropriate chew toys is crucial during teething. Toys that are specifically designed for teething puppies, such as rubber toys or dental chews, can help soothe their gums and satisfy their natural urge to chew. Rotate the toys to keep your puppy interested.
- Cold Treats: Cold can help numb your puppy’s gums and reduce inflammation. Offer frozen treats like ice cubes or frozen carrots for your puppy to chew on. Just make sure the treats are safe and supervised to prevent choking.
- Gentle Massage: Gently massaging your puppy’s gums with your finger can help alleviate some of the discomfort. Use a clean finger and apply gentle pressure to the gums.
- Avoid Hard Objects: While it’s important to provide chew toys, avoid giving your puppy hard objects that could damage their teeth or be a choking hazard. Stick to toys that are designed for teething puppies and monitor their use.
- Regular Vet Check-Ups: Schedule regular check-ups with your veterinarian during the teething phase. They can monitor your puppy’s dental development and address any concerns. Your vet may also recommend specific dental care routines or products.
Dental Care Tips for Teething Puppies
- Brushing: Introduce brushing your puppy’s teeth early on using a pet toothbrush and toothpaste formulated for dogs. This helps maintain good oral hygiene and gets your puppy used to the routine.
- Diet: Feed your puppy a balanced diet that supports their dental health. Dental-specific treats or kibble designed to promote dental hygiene can also help keep their teeth clean.
Puppy teething is a normal and necessary part of your puppy’s growth. By recognizing the signs of teething and knowing how to help, you can ensure your puppy goes through this phase comfortably. At Killarney Animal Hospital, we’re here to support you with expert veterinary care and advice for all stages of your puppy’s life. If you have any concerns about your teething puppy or need further guidance, don’t hesitate to contact us. Together, we’ll keep your puppy healthy and happy through every milestone.