If you have decided to bring a new puppy into your life, one of the inevitable responsibilities of puppy ownership is dealing with teething. Teething times will vary from puppy to puppy, but typically the teething stage will last until the puppy is about six or seven months old. During this time it is important that you are patient with your puppy and do what you can to make the process as easy as possible.
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Excessive Chewing
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Often the first and most obvious sign of a puppy teething is that he will begin chewing on everything in sight. It is common for puppies to chew a little bit, but especially while teething. Chewing is done as a means of easing the pain caused by teeth growing in. You may wish to buy special teething toys for your puppy and offer positive praise when she chews on her toys. This can help teach her to chew only on her toys and not on furniture or shoes.
Missing Teeth
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Because new teeth are coming in, the old ones have to go somewhere. Sometimes pet owners will never see the puppy's teeth when they come out because the puppy will swallow them or the teeth will drop in an unnoticeable area, such as outside in the grass. Occasionally, however, you may find tiny puppy teeth around the house. This is perfectly normal during teething.
Excessive Drooling
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When new teeth are growing in, saliva production typically increases. You may find that your puppy is drooling everywhere. Typically this will stop after teething unless you own a breed of dog that is prone to drooling, such as a boxer or a bull dog.
Swollen or Bleeding Gums
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Many puppy owners will become alarmed if they notice their puppy is bleeding at the gums. During teething this is normal. You can help your puppy by giving him a cold cloth to chew or even by gently massaging the gums.
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