Anyone who has ever raised a puppy has likely asked the question “When do puppies stop chewing on everything?”. It’s been many years since our dog Lucy was a puppy, but she went through her chewing stage like most do. Fortunately it didn’t last long with her, but some pups chew for quite some time. Let’s talk…
I’m going to level with you – if you have a puppy, you’re going to find your slippers, furniture, or even your fingers becoming chew toys at some point. But don’t worry too much about this; chewing is a natural behavior for puppies. It might seem endless, but there’s a method to the madness. Chewing aids their development in several ways, like facilitating teething and providing jaw-strengthening exercises. A word of advise, put away your good shoes and leave out an old pair that are only days from being thrown out, if you can.
This isn’t just about your puppy causing a bit of chaos around the house; it’s also about their growth. Puppies go through various developmental stages as they grow into adulthood, and each phase has its unique characteristics – teething being one of them. Typically, a puppy starts teething around three weeks old, and this phase can last until they are about six months old. So, those needle-sharp teeth nibbling at everything? They’re a sign your furball is maturing, so hang in there.
While some levels of destructiveness are to be expected, not all of it should be waved off as ‘just a phase’. Sometimes the chewing can get out of hand, and that’s when you might need to step in. But let’s address some common misconceptions. No, your puppy doesn’t have a personal vendetta against your belongings, and yes, they will eventually stop treating everything like a chew toy.
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In my opinion, knowing what’s normal can save you a lot of stress. That’s going to include understanding the signs that your puppy is moving on from their teething phase. Take comfort in the fact that as their adult teeth settle in, the incessant need to gnaw on everything will taper down. Now that you’ve got a handle on the ‘why’ of puppy chewing, you’re better prepared to recognize when it’s time to transition to the next stage in their development.
Signs Your Puppy is Nearing the End of the Teething Phase
You’re no doubt eager to see the end of the constant chewing and nibbling that’s very common in the early puppy days. Now, the question is: How do you know when you’re getting close to that light at the end of the tunnel? Here’s what to look out for.
The teething timeline varies slightly among different breeds and individual dogs, but generally, puppies begin teething at around 3 to 4 months old and finish at about 7 to 8 months. You might notice fewer chewed-up items around your home as a sign that your puppy’s gums are causing them less discomfort and that their teething is in its final stages.
A clear indicator is a decrease in the number of baby teeth you find scattered around your home as your puppy loses them and grows their adult teeth. Additionally, you may spot changes in your puppy’s chewing habits – they might chew less frequently or show less intensity when they do chew.
It’s a transitional period that, with a bit of patience and the right approach, can be navigated smoothly, leading you both to a more harmonious living situation.
How to Manage and Redirect Excessive Chewing
Puppies explore the world with their mouths, and chewing is a natural part of their growth. Yet, when your slippers become their favorite chew toy, it’s time to manage and redirect their gnawing tendencies. I’m going to share some strategies that have worked for many puppy owners.
There are a few must-haves for puppy-proofing your house. This means removing easily accessible objects you don’t want chewed up and safeguarding your belongings. You can’t watch your puppy every second, so eliminating temptation is key to prevent destructive habits from forming.
Choosing the right chew toys can make a world of difference. Pick a variety of textures and hardness to keep your puppy engaged, and make sure these toys are safe and sized appropriately. Rotate them regularly to maintain your puppy’s interest, and praise them when they chew on the correct items. Also watch them when given a new toy, I have witnessed some of our furry friends eat a complete chew toy in one sitting.
Training is as much about teaching your puppy what to do as it is about stopping unwanted behavior. Establish clear and consistent commands like ‘leave it’ or ‘drop it’. Use a firm but gentle tone, and always reward good behavior with treats or affection. Positive reinforcement goes a long way in setting boundaries.
Expert advice can offer valuable insight into your puppy’s behavior. A simple conversation with your vet or a session with a professional dog trainer helps ensure you’re on the right track. They can provide tailored advice, taking into account your puppy’s breed, size, and personality.
When to Seek Professional Help for Your Puppy’s Chewing
If you’ve tried managing and redirecting your puppy’s chewing but are still noticing extreme behaviors, it may be time to look for external support.
Don’t worry too much about occasional slip-ups where your puppy chews on something off-limits. However, if there is consistent destruction that escalates or persists past the usual teething phase, that’s a sign to consult a veterinarian. They can rule out any underlying health issues, like nutritional deficiencies or dental problems, that may contribute to increased chewing.
Another good indicator it’s time to get help is if your puppy’s chewing is accompanied by other concerning behaviors, such as aggression, sudden changes in appetite or mood, or excessive licking and biting of their own body. These could be signs of anxiety or stress, and a dog behaviorist or veterinary behaviorist might be your best bet for addressing these issues holistically.
Remember, the goal isn’t just to stop the chewing; it’s to ensure your puppy grows into a well-adjusted dog with good habits. A tailored approach will always be more effective than a one-size-fits-all solution.
Above all, patience is key. Your puppy is constantly learning, and so are you. As you both grow and adapt, you can always adjust your approach down the road. And in my opinion, the investment in professional guidance now can save you both frustration and furniture later on.
Check out our other helpful puppy posts. Crate Training a Puppy & Best Way to Housebreak a Puppy
I hope this information was helpful and as usual, feel free to leave any questions or comments.