Bringing a new puppy home is exciting, but teething can be a challenging phase. Like human babies, puppies experience discomfort while their teeth grow in, leading to excessive chewing. Understanding this process and providing the right relief can make it easier for both you and your pup.
When Do Puppies Start Teething?
Puppies begin teething around 3 weeks old when their baby teeth start emerging. By 6 weeks, they usually have all 28 baby teeth, but these soon give way to adult teeth between 12 and 16 weeks. By 6 months, most puppies have their full set of 42 adult teeth.
Signs of Teething in Puppies
Teething can be uncomfortable, causing excessive chewing, drooling, swollen gums, whining, loss of baby teeth, mild bleeding, and reduced appetite due to sore gums.
How to Help Your Teething Puppy
Offer chew toys, frozen washcloths, or chilled treats like carrots and ice cubes to ease gum pain. Prevent unwanted chewing by keeping tempting objects out of reach, using bitter apple spray, and redirecting your pup to appropriate toys. Gentle gum massages and early dental care, including brushing with dog-safe toothpaste, dental chews, and vet visits, will also support their oral health.
When to See a Vet
While teething is normal, contact your vet if you notice persistent bleeding, severe swelling, retained baby teeth, foul breath, or difficulty eating.
Teething is a short-lived but important stage in your puppy’s development. With the right care and patience, you can help your pup transition smoothly into adulthood with strong, healthy teeth. Keep plenty of chew toys on hand, and this phase will pass before you know it! Do you have a teething puppy? Share your experiences in the comments! 🐶💬 Get updated articles on German Shepherds at www.GuardianGermanShepherd.com.
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