Is your puppy chewing everything in sight? Here’s what’s happening and how to help!

Puppy teething is an exciting yet challenging phase in your puppy's development. This period can be tough on both you and your puppy, as they may experience discomfort, and you might notice an increase in chewing behavior. Natural, safe solutions can help ease their discomfort and redirect their chewing habits. In this article, we’ll explore puppy teething, offer natural teething remedies for puppies, and suggest chew toys for teething puppies to ensure a smooth teething journey.

1. Understanding the Puppy Teething Phase

Puppies typically start teething around three to four weeks, but the main teething phase begins when they are about 12 to 16 weeks old. By the time they’re six months old, they usually have a full set of 42 adult teeth. During this time, teething puppies may experience pain, irritation, and a strong urge to chew to relieve discomfort. Common signs include excessive chewing, drooling, and occasional whining due to gum soreness.

2. Safe and Natural Teething Remedies

To alleviate teething pain without exposing your puppy to unnecessary chemicals, consider these natural puppy teething solutions:

🔹 Frozen Carrots: Chilled or frozen carrots are safe and soothing for puppies. Not only do they help numb sore gums, but they’re also low in calories and packed with vitamins.

🔹 Cold Washcloth: Wet a clean cloth, twist it, and freeze it for a few hours. The cold sensation helps relieve gum discomfort, and the texture provides a satisfying chew. Always supervise your puppy to prevent them from tearing off pieces.

🔹 Chamomile Tea: Chamomile has natural calming properties. Brew a weak tea, let it cool, and dip a cloth or toy into the liquid. The soothing herb can help ease gum pain and calm your puppy.

🔹 Frozen Apples or Bananas: Small pieces of frozen apple or banana provide a tasty treat and offer cooling relief to inflamed gums. Make sure the pieces are small enough to prevent choking.

🔹 Vegan Joint Supplement Chews: For added benefits, consider Vivus Pets Vegan Joint Supplement Chews. These chews are specially formulated with plant-based ingredients that support joint health and flexibility as your puppy grows. Not only do they provide a satisfying chewing experience, but they also deliver essential nutrients to promote overall wellness during this growth stage.

3. Choosing the Right Chew Toys for Teething Puppies

Not all toys are suitable for teething puppies. It’s important to look for chew toys that are durable, safe, and soft enough not to damage their sensitive gums.

For puppies with sensitive gums, soft dental chews can be a great choice to soothe teething pain and support oral health. One product that stands out is the Fresh Breath Dental Chew by Vivus Pets. These plant-based chews are specially designed to be gentle on puppies’ gums while providing essential dental care benefits. Not only do they help keep your puppy’s teeth clean, but they also freshen their breath, making them a practical choice for pet owners.

When choosing dental chews, prioritize options like the Vivus Pets Fresh Breath Dental Chew, which is crafted from safe, high-quality ingredients.

➡️ Want the Best Chew Toys for Your Pup?: Best Dental Chews for Dogs

4. How to Comfort Your Teething Puppy

Aside from toys and treats, creating a comforting environment can help soothe your puppy during teething:

🔹 Gentle Gum Massage: If your puppy allows it, gently massaging their gums with a clean finger can provide relief. Be cautious not to press too hard, as the gums may be tender.

🔹 Routine and Rest: Teething puppies may feel overwhelmed or irritable. A stable daily routine with plenty of nap times can ease stress and reduce discomfort.

🔹 Soft-Bedded Crate or Resting Spot: Providing a cozy, designated resting area encourages them to relax and recover from teething discomfort. Ensure their crate or bed is placed in a quiet, comfortable spot.

5. Redirecting Chewing Behavior During Teething

Chewing is natural for puppies, but it’s important to channel this behavior away from household items. Here’s how:

✔️ Provide Diverse Chew Options: Keep a variety of safe and interesting chew toys accessible. Rotate toys to keep your puppy engaged and prevent destructive chewing.

✔️ Offer Rewards for Appropriate Chewing: When you catch your puppy chewing on the right items, offer praise or a small treat. This reinforces positive chewing behavior.

 ✔️ Use Redirection Techniques: If you catch your puppy chewing on something they shouldn’t, calmly redirect them to an approved chew toy. Avoid punishment, as it can create confusion or anxiety around chewing.

✔️ Puppy-Proof Your Home: Remove items that could be tempting for a teething puppy, such as shoes, books, or cords, and keep these out of reach.

6. Signs of Problematic Teething and When to Consult a Vet

Most puppies get through teething with only minor discomfort, but there are signs to watch for that may require a vet’s attention:

✔️ Persistent Bleeding Gums: Light bleeding may happen occasionally, but excessive or continuous bleeding could signal a problem.

✔️ Swollen or Red Gums: While some redness is normal, intense swelling or inflamed gums may indicate an infection or other issue.

 ✔️ Loss of Appetite or Excessive Whining: If teething discomfort seems extreme, it’s worth consulting your vet.

✔️ Retained Baby Teeth: Occasionally, baby teeth don’t fall out on their own. If you notice double teeth or unusual alignment, a vet may need to remove the retained teeth to prevent dental issues.

Final Thoughts: Helping Your Puppy Through Teething

Teething is a natural and essential part of your puppy’s development, but it can be uncomfortable. By providing natural teething remedies, selecting the right chew toys, and offering comfort, you can ease the teething process and encourage healthy chewing habits.

✔️ Provide safe chew toys and teething remedies

✔️ Establish a comforting environment

✔️ Redirect inappropriate chewing behavior

 ✔️ Watch for signs of problematic teething

 ✔️ Consult your vet if needed

Consider adding Vivus Pets Vegan Joint Supplement Chews to support your puppy’s joint health. With patience and the right tools, this phase will pass, and you’ll help your puppy grow into a happy, healthy adult dog with a strong, healthy smile. 🐶💙