According to the American Kennel Club, puppies get their baby teeth (earlier than humans) at two weeks old. At 3 to 4 months, their puppy teeth begin to fall off, making room for 42 adult teeth. Teething for puppies can be a painful experience. In fact, they can become so irritable that they may not even want to eat.
To help your puppy survive the teething process, here are five ways you can ease their discomfort.
1. Give Them Toys to Chew
Puppies love to chew, which is an excellent way to relieve teething pain. Offer your pup various toys to chew on, including rope toys, rubber Kongs, and Nylabones. Just make sure the toys are made specifically for puppies. Note that their teeth are much softer than adult dogs’, so they can’t handle the same kind of chewing.
Moreover, be aware that puppies can accidentally swallow objects that can obstruct their intestine. Sometimes, your vet will recommend surgery to remove the object. So, it’s important to supervise your pup while chewing and check their toys for wear and tear frequently. For more information, see this here.
2. Give Them a Frozen Treat
You can also give your pup a frozen treat to help soothe their gums. Fill an ice cube tray with water and add some dog-safe fruits or vegetables like carrots, blueberries, or bananas. Then, let the cubes freeze overnight. You can pop one or two out in the morning and let your pup enjoy.
You can also find pre-made frozen dog treats at your local pet store. Read the list of ingredients to ensure it doesn’t contain anything harmful to dogs.
3. Give Them Plenty of Attention
Teething can be a trying time for puppies so they may need some extra attention and TLC during this phase. Make sure to spend plenty of time playing with them and giving them belly rubs. This will help take their mind off the discomfort and make them feel loved.
But you must remember that providing attention doesn’t stop when they become adults. In fact, adult dogs need just as much attention, if not more. So, make sure you’re prepared to commit to spending quality time with your pup for the long haul.
You also have to prepare for other vet services they need, such as vaccinations, regular check-ups, dental services, a pet wellness exam, etc.
4. Monitor Their Diet
It’s essential to monitor your pup’s diet during teething, as they may not be eating as much as usual. Make sure they’re getting enough food and water and that their food is soft enough for them to eat easily. You may also want to give them Wet Noses Dog Treats, designed to be gentle on teething puppies’ mouths.
5. Visit the Vet
If your pup is in a lot of pain or isn’t eating, it’s best to visit the vet. They can prescribe specific medications to help ease the discomfort and ensure no underlying health issue is causing the pain.
Look for these signs, which may not be a part of their teething process:
- Your pup is drooling excessively.
- They’re losing weight or not eating as much as usual.
- Their gums are bleeding.
- They’re having trouble breathing.
- They’re vomiting or diarrhea.
Visit the vet immediately once you see any of these signs, as they may indicate a more serious health issue requiring emergency vet services.
Keep in Mind
Teething is a normal part of a puppy’s development, but it can be a trying time for both you and your pup. These tips can help ease their discomfort and make the process as smooth as possible. Remember to be patient and consistent to help you get through it together.
