Teething in puppies is a special and important time, just like baby teeth coming in for human infants.
Your little pup, full of energy and curiosity, suddenly begins to feel something new and odd in its mouth. That's teething!
Around three to four weeks old, puppies start getting their baby teeth, tiny and sharp like little needles.
This period is important for a few reasons.
First, it's a sign your puppy is growing up, transitioning from milk to solid food.
At this point, they can try different foods, figuring out what's tasty and what's not.
Second, teething is when puppies learn to bite gently.
Through playful nips with their siblings and humans, they understand the power of their jaws and how to control them.
Also, teething is a bit uncomfortable for puppies. Their gums might be sore, leading them to chew everything in sight - from toys to your favourite shoes! It's their way of relieving discomfort.
So, it's the perfect time to teach them what's okay to chew and what's not
It’s a time to set boundaries and teach good habits.
This is why at Pet Bites, we’ve prepared puppy toy packs with just these adorable fur balls. Pet Bite’s collection has all you need to get your little troublemaker through a ruff teething time.
How to Get Your Puppy Through Its Teething Period?
Making the teething period easier for your pup is all about understanding and patience.
First, get them lots of chew toys.
These toys are like a wonderland for their sore gums.
Soft rubber toys, chew ropes, and even special teething toys that you can freeze, provide a soothing, cooling effect.
Don't forget to gently teach them what's not okay to chew. If they start nibbling on something off-limits, a firm "no" and redirecting them to a toy helps them learn.
Perhaps a few chew toys from Pet Bites could do the trick.
Next, puppy-proof your house. Puppies don't know your shoes aren't for chewing, so keep things you don't want to be chewed out of reach.
This saves your belongings and keeps your pup safe from swallowing something harmful.
Also, play with your pup more during this time. It's not just for physical exercise.
It's for bonding and distraction as well. The more they play, the less they focus on the discomfort.
Regular check-ups with the vet are crucial too. They can check the pup's teeth and ensure everything is going as it should.
Plus, they can offer professional advice tailored to your pup's needs.
Lastly, lots of love and patience.
Remember, teething is a temporary phase. With your care and understanding, your puppy will get through this with flying colours, emerging as a well-behaved, happy dog!
What to Consider Before Getting Chew Toys for Your Teething Puppy?
Before getting chew toys for a teething puppy, there are several important things to consider to ensure the toy is safe, effective, and enjoyable for your little furry friend.
Here’s a fun and easy guide to help you choose the best chew toys:
Size Matters
The toy should be just right for your puppy’s size. Too small, and it might be a choking hazard; too big, and your puppy might not be able to play with it comfortably.
Material is Key
Look for durable, non-toxic materials. Rubber toys are great as they're soft enough for teething gums but tough enough to withstand sharp puppy teeth. Avoid anything that could break into small, sharp pieces.
Texture Variety
Puppies love different textures. Some toys have bumps and ridges that massage their gums and make chewing more interesting. It’s like a fun gum massage for them!
Chew Toy Type
There are different types of chew toys - some are for playing and tossing, while others are for serious chewing. Some even have spaces to put treats or food inside, making them a fun puzzle for your pup.
Avoid Harmful Items
Steer clear of toys with small parts, strings, or anything that can be easily chewed off and swallowed. Safety first!
Veterinarian Approved
Check if the toy is recommended by veterinarians or pet professionals. Their approval can be a good sign of a quality, safe toy.
Puppy’s Preference
Just like us, puppies have their likes and dislikes. Some might prefer softer toys, while others go for harder ones. You might need to try a few to see what your pup loves most.
Easy to Clean
Puppies can be messy, so choose toys that are easy to clean. This helps keep the toys hygienic and safe for long-term use.
More Things to Look Out For!
Buy interactive Toys you can use to play with your puppy to help strengthen your bond. Think of toys that you can use for fetch or tug-of-war.
Some toys squeak or make noise, which can be exciting or scary for a puppy. Notice how your pup reacts to different sounds and get them the right toy.
Additionally, some chew toys can be frozen, providing cooling relief to sore gums. This can be a soothing feature for a teething puppy.
Never forget that puppies can be surprisingly strong chewers. Look for toys that are durable enough to last, yet still safe for their teeth.
Remember to avoid Rawhide Initially. Rawhide chews can be tough for young puppies to digest. It’s better to wait until they’re a bit older for these.
Supervise! Supervise!! Supervise!!! Always keep an eye on your puppy with a new toy. It helps you ensure they’re safe and enjoying their chew time.
By considering these factors, you can find the perfect chew toys that will not only soothe your puppy's teething discomfort but also provide hours of fun and help with their development!
At Pet Bites, we’ve got the right tools to help you keep your pup strong and healthy – even while they are teething! So, head over to our store and shop chew toys that are safe for your puppy!