There’s so much to worry about with a puppy; socialising, training – toilet & obedience and their food needs. Have you also thought about those growing needle teeth?
After a few months, puppy teeth naturally fall out and the adult teeth take their place. Just like humans, teething can be uncomfortable so what can you do to soothe their gums and offer them some comfort?
Reality check: Let’s be honest, it’s also about knowing what we can do to stop them chewing anything and everything!
Whilst we can't guarantee that we can save your favourite slippers, or stop random holes appearing in the skirting boards, here’s some info on what to expect and our top tips on managing teething for your puppy.
When do the puppy teeth start to go?
Generally, this starts at about 3-4 months and can last until they’re 6-7 months old, though it can take longer. The molars are the last often the last to go.
A puppy’s teeth are so tiny that you may not even notice they’ve gone. Often, they get swallowed while playing or eating, and whilst you might notice a little blood in their mouth it’s rarely anything to worry about, it’s perfectly normal.
When does the teething stop?
It’s generally all done and dusted by about 8 months, when your pup has all their adult teeth.
The only thing you need to do during this stage it try to help manage the discomfort. Don’t try to intentionally loosen or wiggle any teeth – you could do more harm than good. Teeth fall out naturally. It is however good to keep an eye on your pups’ mouth regularly.
If baby teeth don’t seem to be budging, then you should speak to your vet. Occasionally they can try to hang on in there, and may need to be removed by a professional.
Puppy Teething Guide
Here’s 3 things you can do to make the teething process a breeze for both you and your pup.
- Provide special teething chews – to soothe those sore gums.
- Give your puppy plenty to do – it’ll keep them out of teething trouble and might just save those aforementioned slippers…
- Provide mental stimulation – puppies growing brains love puzzle toys and brain games. These not only keep them occupied, but it’ll wear them out ready for a nice puppy nap.
Teething toys
Look out for toys that are soft and flexible. If you can’t bend or flex the toy, it may be too hard to give to your puppy. Toys that are too hard could fracture your puppy’s growing teeth.
To be safe, give you pup toys like:
- Rope toys
- Plush toys
- Rubber toys
You can also buy puppy teething rings and even puppy pacifiers! Many of these have nubs that are great for massaging sore gums.
Like so many things with puppies, it’s a phase that they all go through, so just hang on in there and help them through it.
Sarah x