Drool Alert! Do Puppies Really Go 'Slobberman' When Teething?
Ah, puppyhood! That adorable, energetic, and sometimes... slobbery phase of a dog's life. If you're a new puppy parent, you might have noticed your little furball turning into a slobbering machine, especially during teething. Don't worry; you're not alone! We're here to dive into the slobbery secrets of puppy teething and equip you with the knowledge to keep both your puppy and your couch happy! πΎπ₯
The Slobbery Scoop: Why Do Puppies Drool When Teething?
1. Teething Pain and Slobbering
When puppies are teething, their little teeth are pushing through their gums, causing discomfort and pain. Just like humans, they find relief by drooling. So, when you see your puppy with those adorable little chompers and a slobbery face, it's their way of saying, "Ouch, that hurts!"
2. Saliva Production and Slobbering
During teething, puppies produce more saliva than usual. This increased saliva production, combined with the pain and discomfort, leads to a slobbery mess. So, don't be surprised if your puppy's drool is as abundant as a river during flood season!
3. Puppy Play and Slobbering
Puppies are naturally playful and curious creatures. When they're teething, their playtime can turn into a slobbery adventure. They might chew on your shoes, furniture, or even your hands, leaving a trail of drool in their wake.
Keeping Your Slobbery Machine Happy (and Your Couch Too!)
1. Provide Teething Toys
Arming your puppy with a variety of teething toys can help alleviate their discomfort and reduce the amount of drool. Look for toys made of natural rubber or durable materials that can withstand a lot of chewing.
2. Offer Frozen Treats
Frozen treats, like frozen Kong toys filled with puppy-safe peanut butter or a frozen bone, can provide relief for teething pain and keep your puppy entertained. Plus, they help keep the drool at bay!
3. Keep a Clean Environment
Drool can attract dirt and bacteria, so it's essential to keep your puppy's environment clean. Regularly wipe down surfaces they've slobbered on and provide fresh water for them to drink.
4. Gently Massaging the Gums
Gently massaging your puppy's gums with your finger or a soft cloth can help soothe the discomfort and reduce drooling. Just be gentle and avoid putting any pressure on their teeth.
5. Monitor Their Diet
During teething, some puppies may experience a decrease in appetite. Ensure they have access to fresh water and soft, easy-to-chew puppy food. Avoid giving them hard or crunchy foods that could cause more discomfort.
6. Regular Check-Ups
Take your puppy to the vet for regular check-ups to monitor their teething progress and address any concerns. Your vet can also provide additional advice and support.
The Slobbery Journey: A Temporary Phase
While puppy teething and slobbering can be a challenging phase, it's important to remember that it's a temporary one. With patience, love, and a little bit of preparation, you can help your puppy navigate this slobbery stage and keep both of you happy!
Remember, your puppy's drool is a sign of their teething pain and discomfort. By providing them with the right tools and support, you can help them through this phase and create lasting memories together. So, embrace the slobbery adventure and enjoy the adorable moments that come with it! πΎπ₯