Is your puppy teething? Here’s how to help

Ah, a teething pup! Now there’s something I don’t miss. They will chew anything and everything and leave a path of destruction so it’s important to make sure you’re prepared for your havoc-wreaking-teething-pain pup.

Teething timeline

Their baby teeth will often fall out between 3 and 7 months old, then the fun really starts.

First, the baby incisors fall out, then their canines, premolars and molars (42 teeth in total) follow suit and your puppy will do anything to try and soothe the pain, so this is where you come in.

Puppy toys

While walking around a pet shop you might have noticed that most puppy toys look a lot like baby toys. You might spot a few dummies or comforters, that’s because they work!

Our puppies are a lot like babies, they can’t tell us when their gums hurt and will find comfort in anything that’ll help. So, stock up.

You want to provide one or two chew toys at a time, too many toys can train him to chew on whatever’s around. Toy rotation is good, too, and will keep your puppy engaged, interested and excited.

Filled puppy toys

You’ll be able to find dog toys that are made from hard rubber and can be filled with your puppy’s favourite tastes. Peanut butter is a favourite at our house and keeps them occupied for a good hour or two, especially if we pop some broken biscuits in there, too.

Cold chews

From freezing your pup’s favourite toy or simply freezing a carrot, your dog will appreciate the coldness on its tender gums.

Check out our frozen dog treats recipe, too, perfect for hot summer days or teething pups.

Baby teeth and blood

Don’t be alarmed if you find some little baby teeth on the carpet or if you spot some blood on their toys, this is normal.

You will probably find your dog chewing on something it’s not supposed to, shoes, kids toys and oven gloves could all fall victim to your puppy’s teeth. Whatever it is, don’t shout at your pup.

Instead, swap the item for a dog toy. This way they’ll start to learn the difference between what they’re allowed to chew on and the things that need to remain unchewed.

Teething can be quite a difficult period of time but just remember it will all be over before you know it and your puppy will be nearing their first birthday. Time flies doesn’t it.