Teething 101

🦷 Teething 101: What to Expect and How to Help Your Puppy

If you’ve recently welcomed a puppy into your family, you’ve probably already discovered one universal truth: puppies chew everything. From your shoelaces to the corners of your couch, nothing is safe—especially during teething. But don’t worry, we’ve got your back (and your furniture).

Here’s your complete guide to understanding teething and how to help your pup through it—while saving your home and your sanity.

📅 When Do Puppies Start Teething?

Puppies typically begin teething at around 3 weeks old when their baby teeth first start coming in. But the real chewing frenzy starts between 12–16 weeks, when those baby teeth fall out to make way for their adult set.

Here’s a general timeline:

• 3–6 weeks: Baby teeth emerge

• 6–8 weeks: Puppies are usually weaned

• 12–16 weeks: Baby teeth begin to fall out

• 6 months: Most dogs have their full set of adult teeth

That window between 3 to 6 months is when teething is at its peak—and when your pup is most likely to turn into a tiny land shark.

😬 What Does Teething Feel Like for Dogs?

Just like human babies, puppies experience gum soreness, discomfort, and itching during teething. To ease the pain, they’ll chew on just about anything they can find—including things they really shouldn’t.

Common signs of teething include:

• Excessive chewing

• Drooling

• Irritability or mood changes

• Swollen or bleeding gums

• Occasional loss of appetite

🦴 How Can You Help Your Puppy Through It?

The best thing you can do is provide safe, satisfying alternatives to your shoes, remote controls, or coffee table legs.

Here’s how:

✅ 1. Give Them Teething-Friendly Toys

At Chew Crew, we design toys specifically for tough chewers and teething puppies. Our Rip & Reveal™ toys are not only durable, but also provide a sensory reward when torn, giving your pup healthy chewing satisfaction.

✅ Look for:

• Soft rubber or rope toys for sore gums

• Freezer-safe toys for cold relief

• Toys with hidden “prizes” to keep them engaged

🧊 2. Freeze Their Toys

Chilled toys can numb sore gums and reduce inflammation. Pop a toy in the freezer for 30–60 minutes before giving it to your pup. Bonus: this also helps with boredom and anxiety.

🐾 3. Use Enrichment Mats

Spread a little peanut butter or soft food on a lick mat to keep your puppy busy and distracted. Licking is calming and can redirect their chewing urge.

🚫 4. Puppy-Proof Your Space

Now is the time to get serious about hiding wires, shoes, and anything toxic (like plants or cleaning products). Teething puppies don’t know what’s dangerous—they just want relief.

🧼 What to Avoid

⚠️ Avoid hard objects like antlers, bones, or rigid nylon toys that can fracture developing teeth. Stick to softer, flexible materials that bend under pressure.

And never give your puppy ice cubes unless they’re in a frozen toy or water—biting into hard ice can also damage their teeth.

💬 Final Thought

Teething is a short-lived phase—but it can feel like forever when your pup is chewing everything in sight. With the right toys, a little patience, and lots of cuddles, your puppy will be through it before you know it.

And hey, your shoes will thank you.