How to Soothe a Teething Puppy: Safe Relief Tips

By Tailwisp Editorial TeamUpdated October 17, 20263 min read

A teething puppy is a puppy in discomfort, and it will chew anything to find relief. You cannot stop teething, but you can make it easier and protect your belongings. Here are safe ways to help.

Why teething hurts

When adult teeth push through, they press on the gums and loosen the baby teeth. Gums become swollen and tender, which makes chewing both painful and satisfying. Chewing relieves pressure, so puppies are driven to do it. See our teething timeline.

Safe ways to soothe

Cold relief

Cold numbs gums and reduces swelling.

• Frozen washcloth. Wet a clean cloth, twist it into a rope, freeze it and let your puppy chew under supervision.
• Frozen rubber toys. Fill hollow toys with water, broth or soft food and freeze.
• Chilled, not frozen, toys. Put toys in the fridge for a gentler coolness.
• Frozen vegetable pieces. Carrot sticks can be soothing for some puppies, but supervise to ensure nothing is swallowed in large pieces.

Safe chew toys

Offer a variety of textures that are firm but flexible. See our guide to the best chew toys for puppies. Rotate toys to keep interest.

Gentle gum massage

Use a clean finger or soft cloth to massage the gums briefly, if your puppy tolerates it. Keep it calm and brief.

Soften food

If kibble is uncomfortable to chew, moisten it with warm water or offer wet food for a few days.

Teething rings and puppy-specific products

Choose products designed for puppies, and check size and materials. Avoid human teething products unless your vet agrees.

What to avoid

• Ice cubes in large amounts or large, hard ice blocks, which can damage teeth
• Real bones, antlers and hooves, which can fracture teeth
• Rawhide and chews that can break into dangerous pieces
• Old shoes and household items, which teach your puppy that these are acceptable
• Hard nylon or plastic toys you cannot dent with a thumbnail
• Anything small enough to swallow

Managing biting

Teething makes biting worse. Keep toys handy, redirect your puppy when it mouths hands and reward gentle play. Our guide to stopping puppy biting and mouthing explains how.

Protect your home

• Keep valuables and cords out of reach.
• Use gates and pens to limit access.
• Supervise your puppy, especially around furniture.
• Provide a regular supply of chews.

Comfort and care

• Offer extra cuddles, but avoid reinforcing whining.
• Make sure your puppy gets enough rest.
• Keep play gentle and avoid tug games that could loosen teeth too early.
• Start tooth brushing gently, using pet toothpaste, to build good habits.

When to see the vet

Call your vet if:

• Your puppy refuses to eat for more than a day
• Gums are very red, swollen or oozing pus
• Bleeding is heavy
• Baby teeth are still present after seven months
• A tooth appears broken
• Your puppy is lethargic or in significant pain

See our guide to dental disease in dogs for more information.

A simple daily teething routine

Many owners find that a routine helps more than any single product. Offer a cold chew in the morning, after your puppy's first walk. Give a second chew in the afternoon when the puppy tends to get fussy. In the evening, offer a calm chew on a mat while the household settles, which also helps prevent the late-day biting spree. Keep three or four toys in rotation, wash them regularly and replace anything that is cracked or shredded. If your puppy chews furniture or hands in between, redirect without fuss. A predictable routine gives your puppy sanctioned outlets at the times it needs them most.

The takeaway

Soothing a teething puppy is mostly about cold, safe chews and patience. Keep your puppy comfortable and your home protected, and remember that this phase will soon be over.