Shoes, furniture, hands… when your puppy is teething, nothing feels safe. The good news? With the right training and chew-friendly alternatives, you can save your home and keep your pup happy.
Why Puppies Chew
Chewing is not misbehavior. It is a natural part of puppy teething, which usually starts around 3 weeks and peaks between 3 and 6 months of age. Just like babies, puppies chew to relieve sore gums and explore their world. The challenge is teaching them what is okay to chew and what is not.
Understanding the Puppy Teething Phases
- Baby Teeth Emerge (2 to 6 weeks): Small, sharp teeth begin breaking through.
- Baby Teeth Fall Out (3 to 6 months): Gums are sore, and chewing intensifies.
- Adult Teeth Grow In (6 to 7 months): Puppies adjust to their stronger permanent teeth.
Knowing these phases helps you anticipate chewing behavior so you can respond with patience and the right tools.
Hack 1: Provide Safe Chew Toys
Redirect your puppy’s urge to chew by offering durable, safe toys designed for teething. Look for rubber toys that can be chilled in the freezer, which soothes sore gums. Rope toys and puppy-sized chew bones are also great options. Rotate toys often to keep your puppy interested.
Hack 2: Use Training to Stop Puppy Chewing
When your puppy chews something they shouldn’t, calmly redirect them to a toy. Reward them with praise when they make the switch. Consistency is key. Over time, your puppy will learn what is acceptable.
This approach is called puppy chew training, and it works far better than punishment, which only confuses your dog.
Hack 3: Puppy-Proof Your Home
Prevention goes a long way. Keep shoes, electrical cords, and small objects out of reach. Use baby gates to limit your puppy’s access to rooms where accidents are more likely. The fewer temptations, the easier training becomes.
Hack 4: Try Frozen Treats
Frozen carrots, apple slices, or ice cubes can provide soothing relief for sore gums. They are safe, healthy, and give your puppy something tasty to focus on instead of your furniture.
Hack 5: Redirect Biting During Play
Puppies often nip hands or clothes during play. When this happens, stop playing immediately and offer a chew toy instead. This teaches them that chewing toys gets your attention, while biting people ends the fun.
Grooming and Chewing Go Hand in Hand
Chewing can also affect oral hygiene. As adult teeth grow in, start brushing your puppy’s teeth regularly. This not only prevents dental issues but also reduces unwanted chewing habits. Learn more in our guide to Grooming 101.
Choosing the Right Dog for Families
Some breeds are more prone to chewing than others. If you are still deciding which puppy is right for your home, check out our blog on the Best Family Dogs.
Finally
Chewing during puppy teething is normal, but it does not have to destroy your home. With safe chew toys, consistent training, frozen treats, and a puppy-proofed space, you can guide your pup through this phase successfully. In just a few months, you will look back and smile at the memory of tiny teeth marks on that old shoe.