A Puppy Teething Hack That Actually Works

Teething is a challenging phase for puppies and their owners alike. As their teeth grow and shift, they experience discomfort and may chew on anything they can get their paws on, from shoes to furniture. While it’s natural, it can be frustrating for pet parents who want to help their pups through this difficult stage. Luckily, there’s a simple hack that can make the teething process a little more bearable for both you and your puppy.

Why Puppies Teethe

Before jumping into the hack, it’s important to understand why puppies teethe in the first place. Much like human babies, puppies go through a teething process where their baby teeth fall out and their adult teeth emerge. This typically happens between 3 and 6 months of age, though it can vary depending on the breed and size of the puppy. During this period, puppies experience soreness and discomfort, prompting them to chew on objects to relieve the pressure in their mouths.

Teething can also cause puppies to drool more than usual and sometimes even lose their appetite due to the pain. However, providing the right tools to ease their discomfort can make all the difference in ensuring a smoother transition from their puppy teeth to adult teeth.

The Hack That Works

So, what’s the hack that actually works? The answer lies in frozen washcloths. You can provide your teething puppy with a simple yet effective solution by freezing a damp washcloth or towel.

Here’s how it works:

1. Soak a washcloth or towel in water. Make sure it’s fully wet, but not dripping.

2. Twist or roll it up into a tight bundle. This will make it easier for your puppy to grab and chew on.

3. Freeze it. Place the rolled-up towel or washcloth in the freezer for a few hours, or overnight if possible. When frozen, it provides a cool and soothing sensation that helps numb the discomfort in your puppy’s gums.

4. Let your puppy chew away. Once the washcloth is frozen, give it to your puppy and let them chew on it as needed. The cold helps numb their gums, reducing swelling and providing relief from the pain caused by teething.

Why This Hack Works

Frozen washcloths offer several benefits for teething puppies:

• Cold soothes inflammation: The cold temperature helps to numb the area, easing pain and swelling. It’s much like how you might use an ice pack to relieve a sore or swollen area on your own body.

• Chewing is natural: Puppies need to chew to relieve pressure on their teeth and gums. Giving them something safe to chew on is vital for their health and wellbeing during teething.

• Safe and simple: The materials required for this hack are inexpensive and easy to find. A simple washcloth or towel that you already have at home can work wonders. There’s no need to buy fancy teething toys or expensive products.

• Easy to clean: Unlike some store-bought chew toys, washcloths are easy to clean. You can toss them in the laundry and reuse them, making them a sustainable and cost-effective solution.

Alternatives to Frozen Washcloths

While frozen washcloths are a great option, there are a few other alternatives that might also help soothe your puppy’s teething pain. These include:

1. Frozen Carrots: Some puppies love gnawing on frozen vegetables, especially carrots. Carrots are not only safe for puppies to chew on but also provide additional nutrients. Be sure to supervise your pup, though, as they might try to swallow chunks of carrot.

2. Teething Toys: There are plenty of teething toys specifically designed for puppies. Some of these are made with a material that can be frozen, providing similar relief to the washcloth hack. Look for toys made of rubber or silicone, which are durable and gentle on your puppy’s teeth.

3. Chilled Chew Bones: If your puppy enjoys chewing on bones, consider chilling a rawhide or a specially-designed chew bone in the refrigerator. This provides a cool sensation to soothe sore gums while keeping them occupied.

4. Kongs with Frozen Treats: For a more interactive teething experience, stuff a Kong with treats or peanut butter, then freeze it. This gives your puppy something to focus on while also cooling and soothing their gums.

Tips for Teething Puppies

While frozen washcloths are an excellent option, there are a few other tips to keep in mind during the teething stage:

• Keep a variety of safe chew toys: As your puppy’s teeth grow, they’ll need different textures to chew on. Provide a mix of hard rubber toys, soft plush toys, and even natural chew options like antlers or bully sticks. Rotate these toys regularly to keep your puppy interested.

• Supervise your puppy: Puppies tend to chew on things they shouldn’t, including shoes, furniture, and electrical cords. Always supervise your puppy when they’re chewing on toys, especially when they’re learning what’s safe and what’s not.

• Stay patient: Teething can last for several months, so it’s important to stay patient during this time. Your puppy is not chewing out of malice—they are simply trying to relieve discomfort. Stay consistent with providing appropriate chew toys and distractions.

• Dental care: Once your puppy has all their adult teeth, it’s crucial to begin caring for their dental health. Brushing your puppy’s teeth regularly, providing dental chews, and scheduling annual vet check-ups will help ensure a lifetime of healthy teeth and gums.

Conclusion

Teething is a challenging time for puppies, but with the right tools and strategies, you can help them get through it with ease. Freezing a damp washcloth or towel is an effective, simple, and cost-free hack that helps soothe your puppy’s gums, keeping them comfortable as their adult teeth come in. Combine this hack with safe chew toys, patience, and good dental care, and you’ll help your pup grow into a healthy and happy adult dog.