Understanding Puppy Teething and How to Prevent Chewing

Puppy teething is a natural stage in a young dog’s development, but it can be a challenging time for pet owners. As puppies grow, they experience discomfort in their gums, leading to excessive chewing on anything they can find. Many new owners wonder how to stop a puppy from chewing on furniture, shoes, and other household items.

Understanding when do puppies start teething, what symptoms to expect, and how to provide safe chewing alternatives can make this stage easier for both you and your furry friend. In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about puppy teething and provide effective ways to prevent destructive chewing.

Understanding Puppy Teething

Just like human babies, puppies go through a teething process that can cause irritation and discomfort. Knowing the timeline and symptoms can help you prepare.

When Do Puppies Start Teething?

Puppies begin teething at around 3 weeks of age, when their baby teeth start emerging. By 6 to 8 weeks, most puppies have all 28 of their baby teeth. However, teething doesn’t stop there.

At around 12 to 16 weeks, puppies start losing their baby teeth to make way for their permanent adult teeth. This process can last until they are 6 months old, by which time they should have 42 adult teeth.

Common Symptoms of Puppy Teething

• Increased chewing and biting
• Drooling more than usual
• Swollen or red gums
• Occasional whining due to discomfort
• Mild bleeding from the gums
• Decreased appetite (due to gum soreness)

Why Do Puppies Chew?

Chewing is a completely normal behavior in puppies, and it serves several important purposes:

• Relieves gum discomfort – Chewing helps soothe sore gums as new teeth push through.
• Explores the environment – Puppies use their mouths to investigate objects, textures, and tastes.
• Eases boredom and stress – A puppy left alone for long periods may chew out of frustration or anxiety.
• Strengthens jaw muscles – Chewing helps develop a strong bite and healthy jaw.

While chewing is natural, it’s important to guide puppies toward safe and appropriate items rather than allowing destructive chewing habits to form.

How to Prevent Destructive Chewing

Provide Safe Teething Toys

The best chew toys for teething puppies are designed to soothe gums while keeping their teeth strong. Look for:

• Rubber toys (like Kong) that can be stuffed with treats.
• Rope toys that provide a satisfying texture for chewing.
• Soft plush toys with reinforced stitching for durability.
• Edible chew sticks that are safe for puppies.

Use Frozen Treats & Chews

Cold items help numb sore gums and reduce inflammation. Try:

• Frozen carrots (a healthy, crunchy treat).
• Ice cubes made from low-sodium broth.
• Freezable teething toys.

Positive Reinforcement Training

When puppies chew on inappropriate items, redirect them to an approved toy. Praise them when they chew the right things. If they persist in chewing furniture or shoes, calmly remove the object and offer an alternative. Consistency is key to teaching good habits.

Puppy-Proof Your Home

Prevent access to items that your puppy might be tempted to chew.

• Keep shoes, socks, and personal items out of reach.
• Hide electrical cords or cover them with protective tubing.
• Use baby gates to block off certain areas of the house.

Regular Exercise & Mental Stimulation

A tired puppy is a well-behaved puppy. Boredom is a major cause of destructive chewing, so provide:

• Daily play sessions.
• Puzzle toys to keep their minds engaged.
• Walks and socialization to burn off excess energy.

Use Safe Chew Deterrents

If your puppy keeps chewing on furniture, bitter spray deterrents can help. These sprays have a taste that discourages chewing but are safe for pets. Always test a small area before applying it to larger surfaces.

When to Seek Veterinary Advice

While puppy teething is normal, there are some cases where professional advice may be needed:

• Excessive bleeding from the gums.
• Baby teeth that don’t fall out by 6 months (retained teeth can cause dental problems).
• Persistent bad breath or signs of infection.
• Severe pain that affects eating or behavior.

If you notice any of these issues, consult your veterinarian for guidance.

Conclusion

Puppy teething can be a tough stage, but with the right approach, you can help your puppy through it while protecting your home from destructive chewing. By providing safe teething toys, using positive reinforcement, and keeping your puppy engaged, you’ll set the foundation for good chewing habits.