Teething In Puppies - What It Is And How To Deal With It

What is teething in puppies?

Puppies grow new teeth during their development just as human babies do. This process is known as teething in puppies. Pups grow a set of baby teeth or milk teeth, from birth to six months. These teeth are pointed and sharp and are sometimes referred to as needle teeth. During this period, pups will chew on anything that they can get their hands (or in this case, teeth) on, to soothe the pain. 

What are the symptoms of puppy teething?

While it may vary between different breeds, there are some common signs that indicate that your puppy is teething. Some of the common symptoms may include – drooling, facial swelling, sudden dislike towards certain foods, little spots of blood on toys, lack of sleep and constant rubbing of the face. The teething process can be discomforting and painful. It may be wise to take your pup to the vet for a dental examination, so as to fully understand how to help your pup during this painful process.

How to deal with puppy teething?

It is important to understand that the teething process is a very painful and confusing period for your pup. What your pup sees, your pup chews. It is out of requirement and not out of spite, so scolding or hitting your dog is never the answer. It is your duty to teach your pup what is for chewing and what is not.

Simply Follow PMB to help your puppy go through this phase.

1) Plenty of People Time.

Your dog won't know how to behave if you don't teach them alternatives to inappropriate behavior, and they can't learn these when they are in the yard by themself. Keep them with you on their leash in the house so they can't make a mistake out of your sight. Confine them when you're unable to keep an eye on them. Choose a "safe place" that's dog-proof, and provide fresh water and "safe" toys. If your dog is crate trained, you may also place them in their crate for short periods of time.

2) Plenty of Physical and Mental Exercise.

If your dog is bored, they'll find something to do to amuse themself and you probably won't like the choices they make. On the other hand, a tired dog is a good dog, so make sure they get lots of physical and mental activity. The amount of exercise should be based on their age, health and breed characteristics.

If you catch your dog chewing on something they shouldn't, interrupt the behavior with a loud noise. Offer them an acceptable chew toy instead, and praise them lavishly when they take the toy in their mouth.

3) Build A Toy Obsession

- Ensure that there is always be an abundance of toys and chewing objects present around the house.

- Replace your shoe or any object that is not for chewing, with an alternative toy that the puppy learns his alpha approves. We recommend organic rope toys that are great for chewing and acts like toothbrushes as well. But the best part is that they can even be swallowed with no harm to the puppies intestine.

- Consistency is key. Regularity in training will quickly give your pup an idea what is to be chewed and what is not.

- Frozen baby carrots, cold chew toys or even frozen ice cubes are a good option to help soothe your puppy’s sore gums.

- A light leash may be used to keep your pup away from the furniture and shoes.

-If your dog nips at your toes or your fingers a little too hard, make a loud yelping sound to let your pup know that that is not okay.

Violence is never the answer and an aggressive reaction might scare your puppy. Teething can be an upsetting experience for puppies and their parents. It is important to be patient in order to help your pup overcome this painful period.

If your pup seems to be biting out of aggression, it is recommended to speak to a veterinarian about ways to deal with destructive chewing. And don’t you worry, this too(th) shall pass!