Your puppy can experience discomfort and pain during the teething phase, which occurs around the age of 4 months. Over the next several months, he might chew on everything in sight, because the pressure on his gums offers relieve. There are various things you can do to help ease your furry pal's discomfort and protect your valuables at the same time.
Visit the Doctor
Frequently checking your puppy's gums and teeth is essential during the teething phase, because sometimes problems can arise that you otherwise might not be aware of. If your furry pal's adult teeth come in and his baby teeth aren't falling out, it can affect the development of his jaw and result in misaligned adult teeth or an infection. A veterinarian can examine your puppy and recommend proper treatment, which might include surgical removal of the retained baby teeth.
Frozen Items
Give your puppy frozen items to chew on, because cold has a numbing, pain-alleviating effect on his mouth that's similar to the effect of refrigerated teething rings for babies. Frozen carrots or pieces of watermelon can serve as soothing treats, as can ice cubes made from chicken or beef broth. For a quick, easy remedy, dip a washcloth in water and place it in the freezer. Once frozen, give it to your puppy to chew on.
Chewable Items
Providing your puppy with a variety of items to chew on can ease his discomfort and keep him from chewing and destroying your valuables. Consult your veterinarian about appropriate items for your pet companion to chew on. He might suggest using various hard-to-destroy, commercial chew toys or rawhide chew items. If you catch your puppy chewing on an item that's off-limits, clap your hands to startle him and stop him in his tracks. Then, show him a chew toy, and when he shows interest in it, praise him lavishly.
Considerations
Never give your puppy an old slipper or shoe to chew on, because he might get the impression that all slippers and shoes, whether new or old, are there for him to chew on. Puppy-proofing your home and consistently watching your furry pal can keep him safe and out of trouble. If needed, spray a taste deterrent on off-limit items, confine your puppy to a room or crate him during times that you can't watch him.
References
Writer Bio
Kimberly Caines is a well traveled model, writer and licensed physical fitness trainer who was first published in 1997. Her work has appeared in the Dutch newspaper "De Overschiese Krant" and on various websites. Caines holds a degree in journalism from Mercurius College in Holland and is writing her first novel.