Puppies are bundles of joy, but they can also be a handful. One of the most challenging parts of taking care of your puppy is the teething stage. As the baby teeth move out and the adult teeth come in, your pet will want to start chewing anything it can. Here is a brief guide on how to survive and thrive in the puppy teething stage.
Puppy Teething Timeline
Your dog’s health is the top priority. While managing puppy teething is one responsibility, so is making sure its adult teeth are coming in on time. As early as two weeks old, puppies gain their baby teeth. Then, within three or four months to six months of age, it will then lose its baby teeth to make room for its forty-two adult teeth. You may find some on the carpet, but your dog will most likely swallow a lot of them.
Puppy-Proof Your Home
The transition from baby to adult teeth is very uncomfortable for a dog, so teething is the natural way to bring relief. Puppy-proofing your home is the first step to keeping its teeth away from unwanted surfaces. One can securely tape electric cords against baseboards, spray wood furniture with a natural solution, and keep sharp and hazardous items far from reach. Even with these measures, make sure to supervise your dog and make sure it gets enough exercise.
Provide the Right Toys
Plenty of puppy chew toys and treats are on the market, but the kinds that are best for your dog won’t be for another. Choose toys based on your dog’s size and energy level. Some toys are made for dogs of a certain size and age range, so be sure that what was once an appropriately-sized toy becomes a choking hazard for your dog who has outgrown it.
Provide Enough Exercise
Exercise and quality time with you are essential for your puppy. If it becomes bored or full of pent-up energy, you might end up with lots of shredded belongings. Exercise and play won’t get rid of the need to teeth, but it can help to regulate it.
Consult Your Vet
You might see a little bit of blood on its chew toys as the puppy teething stage progresses, which is normal, but you should consult your veterinarian if you see anything unusual, such as teeth not falling out after six months.
Trust the Care of Your Pet to the Professionals at Everhart Veterinary Medicine!
At Everhart Veterinary Medicine, our veterinary professionals strive to provide your pet with the very best of veterinary care. We believe that the best care for your pet should be provided by experienced, compassionate, and knowledgeable veterinary professionals. With two Maryland locations in both Baltimore and Pasadena, we are always ready to welcome your pet as a new patient! Give us a call today at 410-355-3131 or 410-793-7670! For more information, as well as updates on veterinary news and topics, visit us on Facebook, Twitter, or LinkedIn!