If you’ve ever been around a teething puppy, you know it’s a lot like having a baby in the house—except this baby has razor-sharp teeth and a tendency to chew on everything in sight. Those tiny teeth might look harmless, but for your pup, teething can be an uncomfortable (and sometimes painful) process. The good news? There are plenty of ways to help them through it.
What Happens When Puppies Teethe?
Let’s imagine you just brought home an adorable Labrador puppy named Max. At first, everything is great—he’s playful, full of energy, and loves to cuddle. But soon, you notice Max gnawing on your shoes, the table legs, and even your fingers. What gives?
Just like human babies, puppies go through a teething phase. Around three weeks old, their baby teeth start coming in, and by three to four months, those teeth start falling out to make room for their adult set. This process can last until they’re about six months old. During this time, their gums feel itchy and sore, which is why they chew—not to be naughty, but to find relief.
Signs Your Puppy is Teething
If Max is teething, you might notice:
- Excessive chewing (especially on things he shouldn’t!)
- Drooling more than usual
- Swollen, red gums
- Whining or fussiness
- Tiny baby teeth on the floor (or stuck in a toy!)
Some puppies handle teething like a champ, while others seem miserable. Either way, your furry friend will appreciate a little extra help.
How to Soothe Your Puppy’s Sore Gums
Now, let’s talk about ways to make Max (and your furniture) a little more comfortable:
Give Them Safe Chew Toys
Instead of sacrificing your sneakers, offer puppy-safe chew toys. Rubber teething rings, textured chew toys, or even freezable toys can provide relief. Imagine how good a cold popsicle feels on a sore throat—that’s how a chilled chew toy feels on your puppy’s gums!
Try Frozen Treats
Speaking of cold relief, frozen treats work wonders. You can freeze small bits of banana, carrots, or even wet dog food into ice cubes for a tasty, soothing snack. Just picture Max happily gnawing away on a frozen carrot instead of your remote control.
Puppy-Proof Your Home
If it’s within reach, it’s fair game. Keep shoes, cables, and anything chewable out of reach. Think of it like baby-proofing—except your "baby" has the bite force of a tiny alligator.
Gentle Gum Massages
Yes, you read that right! Some puppies love a gentle gum massage with a clean finger or a soft cloth. If Max is one of those pups, he’ll lean into it like he’s getting a mini spa treatment.
Use Teething-Specific Chews
Certain edible teething sticks are designed to be gentle on puppy teeth while satisfying their urge to chew. Just be sure to choose options made specifically for young pups.
What Not to Do
- 🚫 Don’t scold your puppy for chewing—they’re not doing it to be bad; they’re just trying to feel better.
- 🚫 Avoid hard bones or antlers, which can actually damage their developing teeth.
- 🚫 Never give them old shoes or clothes as chew toys (they won’t know the difference between their toy and your favorite sneakers!).
The Light at the End of the Tunnel
The teething phase doesn’t last forever! By six months old, most puppies have their full set of adult teeth, and the urge to chew should calm down. In the meantime, a little patience, preparation, and the right tools can help make this phase easier for both of you.
So, if Max (or your own teething pup) is turning your home into a chew-fest, don’t worry—you’ve got this. And if you need durable, safe chew toys to help, we’ve got plenty of options that can keep your pup (and your furniture) happy.
