Is your puppy chewing on everything in sight—your shoes, furniture, or even your phone charger? They're likely facing the teething stage of puppies. Just like human babies, puppies experience a stage where their new teeth come in. To ease the pain and discomfort, they need to chew. 

While this is a normal part of growing up for them, it can be tough on your belongings and your patience. This guide will help you understand what’s happening during this teething phase, offer tips for soothing your puppy's sore gums, and provide strategies to keep both your house and your sanity intact.

Understanding Puppy Teething

The puppy teething age starts at around three weeks old. During that time, their small teeth, often called milk teeth, begin to appear. These sharp little teeth mark the beginning of their teething journey. 

By 12 and 16 weeks, their baby teeth will start to fall out, making way for their adult teeth. And by six months, your puppy will have a complete set of 42 adult teeth, and the teething phase is generally over.

So, Why Do Puppies Chew?

As their new teeth grow, chewing helps soothe their sore gums and encourages old baby teeth to loosen and fall out. Plus, pups use their mouth to explore the world around them, so chewing is part of their natural curiosity.

What to Expect?

Expect a few changes during this period. From about 3 to 6 weeks, teething isn’t usually a problem since they are still nursing. But once they hit 12 to 16 weeks, their baby teeth will start to drop, and you might find tiny teeth around the house. Their gums might bleed a bit, and they’ll likely chew on everything in sight.

When they reach 4 to 6 months, their adult teeth begin to come in, and that's when you’ll see the most chewing. To protect your belongings, provide plenty of appropriate puppy chew toys!

Puppy Teething Symptoms to Watch For

It's entirely normal for puppies to teethe, but it can sometimes feel concerning. Here are some common signs that your puppy might be going through this phase:

• Their gums may appear puffy or bright pink, and you might notice them drooling more than usual. You might even spot small traces of blood on their toys.

• They may shy away from crunchy food and seem fussier or more irritable than normal.

• You could also catch them chewing on various items more frequently, including your hands, and they might rub their paws on their mouth to relieve discomfort.

How to Help Your Teething Puppy (Without Losing Your Stuff)

1. Give them chew toys or dental treats

Dealing with a teething puppy? Instead of letting them wreak havoc, why not give them some safe alternatives that they'll love? Pet Express offers fantastic puppy teething toys and chews designed for teething puppies, helping soothe their gums and protect your furniture.

For tasty treats that also help their teeth, puppy dental chews help clean their teeth and massage their gums. If you switch between these different toys and treats, your puppy will stay interested, and your house will be safer from chewing.

2. Puppy-proof your home

Puppies don’t instinctively know what’s off-limits, so it’s up to you to teach them. Start by putting away shoes and slippers in cupboards or boxes where they can’t reach. Use covers to hide electrical wires, and consider spraying furniture legs with a pet-safe repellent that discourages chewing. 

If there are rooms or items you want to keep safe, block them off. Remember, consistency is key!

3. Redirect and train consistently

If you catch your puppy chewing something they shouldn't, calmly say "No" or "Uh-uh," then immediately offer an appropriate chew toy or treat. When they choose the right item, give them plenty of praise! Avoid punishing them, as it can lead to fear. 

So, consistently train your puppy not to chew on stuff by redirecting and rewarding their good chewing behavior.

Read more: Unleash Your Furry Friend's Potential: Essential Tips for Effective Pet Training

When to Be Concerned

Teething can be uncomfortable for puppies, but it's essential to reach out to your vet if you notice any serious signs. Look out for excessive bleeding from their mouth, a sudden loss of appetite, bad odors, or pus. 

Also, keep an eye on baby teeth that don’t fall out when the adult ones come in, as well as any broken or cracked new teeth. Catching these issues early can ensure a smoother teething experience for your furry friend.

Read more: A Guide to Strong Teeth and Fresh Breath for Your Furry Friends

Puppy teething is temporary, even though it feels like it lasts forever when they're chewing everything. Knowing why puppies teethe and giving them safe chew toys and treats helps protect your belongings and keeps your puppy happy. Pet Express has a lot of helpful things for teething puppies, making this stage easier for both of you.

Go to the Pet Express store that's closest to you or check out their website now. They have everything you need to buy to help your puppy with teething!