28 tiny teeth can do some damage when they are razor-sharp in a puppy’s mouth, biting and nipping at everything that they can reach. Most of their puppy teeth fall out in 6 months, but until then his gums will be sore and he will continue to do whatever it takes to ease the discomfort. With the following tips, you’ll be able to survive the teething stage just fine.
Give Him Something to Chew
Giving your pup something to chew on can massage and numb his gums, easing his soreness. Just like with human babies, there are numerous options for teething. You can try rubber toys which can be frozen, edible teething rings, and flavored chew toys. Ask your vet for recommended chew toys for your puppy’s specific size and needs. Keep an eye on chew-time though, as they can break pieces off that should be thrown away and not swallowed.
Discourage Nipping
Puppies don’t always realize how hard they are biting and need to be met with a high-pitched “Ow!” in order to learn to back off. Some pups get more excited with the engagement, in which case you should turn around or put him in a crate to calm down. You can also give him something alternative to bite on, like a toy. If he continues to nip at you, stop playing or redirect his energy toward something non-contact such as a walk or training session.
Brush Those Pearly Whites
The sooner your pooch accepts teeth brushing as a regular occurrence, the easier it is to keep them clean. There are many dog toothbrush and toothpaste options available. Do not use human toothpaste on your dog as it could be extremely toxic to him.
Consistency is key when it comes to puppy training; nipping is no exception. As your dog ages, continue to give him bones and toys to chew on, as adult dogs still enjoy a good chew. It is a natural instinct that helps keep their mouth clean.
