Bringing a new puppy home is exciting, but it also comes with challenges—especially when it comes to teething and chewing. Puppies explore the world with their mouths, and this natural behavior can sometimes lead to frustration for owners. Understanding why puppies chew, how teething works, and how to guide your puppy’s behavior is essential for a happy and safe home.
At Killarney Animal Hospital, we help owners navigate these stages with practical advice and training strategies tailored to each puppy’s needs.
Why Puppies Chew
Chewing is a normal part of puppy development. It helps relieve discomfort, exercise the jaw, and explore their environment. Puppies also use chewing as a way to learn about textures and test boundaries.
Chewing can become a problem if it targets inappropriate objects, like furniture, shoes, or electrical cords. The goal is to redirect this natural behavior safely while preventing damage or injury.
Understanding Teething
Puppies are born without teeth. Their first teeth, called “milk” or deciduous teeth, usually appear around three weeks of age. By eight weeks, most puppies have a full set of 28 milk teeth.
Permanent adult teeth start emerging at around three to four months and continue until six to seven months. During this time, gums can be sore and swollen, making puppies more likely to chew aggressively to relieve discomfort.
Signs Your Puppy Is Teething
Common signs include:
- Increased chewing on toys or household items
- Drooling more than usual
- Mild irritability or fussiness
- Swollen or red gums
- Sometimes small amounts of blood on toys
Understanding these signs helps you respond with patience rather than frustration.
Safe Chewing Options
Providing appropriate chew toys is crucial. Look for toys designed for teething puppies, such as:
- Soft rubber or silicone toys
- Textured toys that massage the gums
- Frozen or chilled toys for soothing sore gums
Rotate toys to keep your puppy engaged and make chewing on acceptable items more interesting than furniture or shoes.
Training Puppies Around Chewing
Redirection is key. When your puppy starts chewing on something inappropriate, calmly redirect them to a suitable toy. Praise them when they chew the correct item.
Other helpful strategies include:
- Puppy-proofing your home by removing or securing tempting objects
- Using deterrent sprays on furniture or cords
- Crate training for safe containment when unsupervised
- Consistent routines and supervision to reinforce boundaries
Consistency is the most important factor. Puppies learn best when rules are predictable and reinforced gently.
Encouraging Good Habits Early
Training and socialization go hand-in-hand. Puppies that receive consistent guidance, mental stimulation, and positive reinforcement tend to chew less destructively. Encourage healthy play and reward calm behaviors.
Daily play sessions, puzzle toys, and interactive training help reduce boredom and prevent destructive chewing.
When To Check With Your Veterinarian
While chewing is normal, some behaviors may indicate pain, oral health issues, or other problems. Contact Killarney Animal Hospital if you notice:
- Persistent bleeding gums or severe drooling
- Chewing accompanied by pawing at the mouth
- Swelling, pus, or unusual odors from the mouth
- Difficulty eating or drinking
Early evaluation ensures there are no underlying issues and helps you support healthy development.
A Positive Approach Makes All The Difference
Teething and chewing are natural stages of puppy growth. By understanding the process, offering safe outlets, and guiding your puppy with patience and consistency, you can prevent unwanted behaviors and foster a well-adjusted dog.
If you have questions about teething, chew toys, or puppy training, the team at Killarney Animal Hospital is here to help. Call us today to schedule a consultation and get personalized guidance for your puppy’s needs.