Is your puppy suddenly biting everything in sight, including your fingers and furniture? Teething could be the reason. In this guide, you’ll learn how to handle teething in puppies with practical tips, proven strategies, and safe chew toy recommendations. Teething can be uncomfortable for your pup—but with the right support, you can both get through it smoothly.
Why Teething Matters for Puppies
Teething is a natural stage of your puppy’s development, typically starting around 3 weeks and continuing until about 6 months of age. During this time, they’ll lose their baby teeth and grow in their adult set—42 in total. This process is important but often uncomfortable, leading to:
- Chewing and biting behavior
- Sore gums and irritability
- Drooling
- Loss of appetite or mild discomfort
- Occasional bleeding gums
Handling this stage properly helps your puppy feel better and protects your belongings from becoming chew toys.
Step-by-Step Guide to Handling Puppy Teething
Step 1: Know the Teething Timeline
Understanding when your puppy is teething helps you know what to expect:
- 3–6 Weeks: Baby (deciduous) teeth begin to erupt
- 6–8 Weeks: Full set of baby teeth (28 total)
- 12–16 Weeks: Baby teeth begin to fall out
- 6 Months: Most puppies have their full set of adult teeth
This means most teething problems occur between 12 weeks and 6 months of age.
Step 2: Provide Safe Chew Toys
Chewing relieves pressure on your puppy’s gums. Offer a variety of safe options:
- Rubber teething toys (like KONG Puppy)
- Textured chew toys
- Soft rope toys
- Frozen rubber toys for cooling relief
- Freezable puppy-safe treats
Rotate different types to keep your puppy interested.
Step 3: Use Cold for Relief
Cold items help numb sore gums. Here are some safe, cold teething remedies:
- Frozen carrots (for larger breed puppies)
- Wet washcloths frozen and twisted
- Commercial freezable teething toys
Always supervise to prevent choking or swallowing large pieces.
Step 4: Redirect Inappropriate Chewing
If your puppy starts chewing on shoes, furniture, or your hands:
- Say “No” firmly (not loudly or aggressively).
- Immediately offer a chew toy instead.
- Praise when they switch to the toy.
Consistency helps teach boundaries and what’s okay to chew.
Step 5: Keep Items Out of Reach
Puppies explore with their mouths, so puppy-proof your home:
- Store shoes, clothes, cords, and small objects out of reach.
- Use baby gates to limit access to certain rooms.
- Keep furniture edges protected with covers or deterrent sprays.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
1. Letting Your Puppy Chew Anything to Soothe Themselves
Don’t allow chewing on hands, shoes, or furniture—even if it seems harmless. This creates habits that are hard to break later.
2. Giving Hard Toys Too Early
Avoid bones or hard nylon toys during teething. They can crack baby teeth or cause pain.
3. Ignoring the Behavior
Teething is uncomfortable—ignoring the chewing will only frustrate both of you. Your puppy needs help managing this stage.
4. Offering Frozen Items Without Supervision
Frozen treats and toys can break into small pieces. Always watch your puppy while they chew cold items.
5. Delaying Vet Visits if Something Seems Off
If your puppy has excessive bleeding, severe swelling, or a tooth that won’t fall out, visit your vet. Sometimes baby teeth get stuck and require removal.
Extra Tips & Recommendations
Try Teething Gels (Vet-Approved Only)
There are some dog-safe teething gels that can provide relief. Ask your vet before using any products, especially human ones.
Use Positive Reinforcement
Praise your puppy every time they chew on an appropriate toy. Reinforcing the right behavior helps them learn faster.
Be Patient and Gentle
Teething can be frustrating, but remember—your puppy isn’t being bad. They’re just uncomfortable and need your guidance.
Conclusion
Teething is a normal part of puppyhood, but it doesn’t have to be stressful. With the right chew toys, some cool relief, and consistent redirection, your pup can get through this phase comfortably—and your home can stay intact. Be patient, stay consistent, and know that this phase will pass before you know it.
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