A Shih Tzu puppy is usually considered to be fully grown at the age of six months. That being said, they are still puppies for a little while longer. Like all other dogs, Shih Tzus go through periods where their teeth start to break through and grow in new ones. This process can cause some pain and discomfort so it’s important for owners to know how best to help them out during this time period. This article will provide helpful tips on keeping your pup comfortable until his or her puppy teething phase has passed!
The Shih Tzu Puppy Teething Process
When a Shih Tzu puppy is teething, he or she will have very sharp little teeth coming in. This can be uncomfortable for them so it’s important to take care of them while this process goes on. The first thing an owner should do is provide their pup with plenty of toys that are safe enough to chew on. Some great options are rawhide bones, made-for-puppies toys, and washcloth/shower dummy type things that they cannot swallow but can still play with comfortably until the pain subsides.
The First Teeth
Owners should look out for lethargy, excessive drooling, difficulty eating, and changes in behavior as these are all signs that your pup may be uncomfortable. If any of these do occur, make sure you give your dog some space and time to rest.
The Second Teeth
These teeth will come in behind the first set of incisors, so as long as you pay attention to those, everything should go smoothly for several more weeks until the next set starts to break through.
Why is Your Shih Tzu Puppy Teething
Puppies start teething as a way to help ease the pain of their adult teeth breaking through. However, they can still experience some discomfort or pain even after the initial teething is done. All dogs experience this to varying degrees and it’s something that most owners simply have to put up with until it passes.
What are the Symptoms of Puppy Teething in Dogs
The symptoms of teething are as follows: drooling, tender gums, chewing on things they shouldn’t, and general restlessness. In addition to the above symptoms, a dog’s behavior may change as well. They may become clingier with their owners or even more aggressive. Dogs that normally don’t bark much may suddenly become loud and irritable. These changes can last a few days or a few weeks depending on the dog itself and the severity of the teething process.
If you notice any of these symptoms in your Shih Tzu puppy, make sure to keep an eye out for any further changes in their behavior as this is usually indicative of something else going on inside them that needs your help!
How Can You Help Your Dog with Their Puppy Teething Pain
There are a number of ways that dog owners can help their dogs deal with teething pain. The easiest and most effective solution is to simply pay them more attention during this period. When your pup feels like someone is giving him or her the time and love they need, it will make everything feel better and help them relax enough to not be so grumpy all the time. In addition to talking with your Shih Tzu puppy, try petting them more often. They will appreciate any sort of affection at this difficult time!
Tips for Easing the Pain of a Puppy Teething
If a non-traditional method of relaxation isn’t working for your pup, take them to the vet immediately so they can get immediate relief through safe treatments such as a shot or some oral medication. If your pup is going through a particularly tough time with their teeth coming in, consider shaving down one of their first upper incisors.
At this point, it’s important to make sure your Shih Tzu puppy is getting enough food and water. During the teething time, many pets are unable to eat as much as they normally would because of the pain that chewing causes them. If you notice this happening with your pup then offer them soft foods that are relatively flavorless or warm cooked chicken or rice. Since puppies also need a lot of fluids, be sure to provide them with plenty of fresh water at all times so they can stay hydrated until their next meal arrives!
Why It’s Important to Keep Your Dog’s Teeth Clean During This Time
The teeth of your Shih Tzu are very similar to ours in that they tend to accumulate plaque and tartar over time. This can be particularly problematic during teething as these sorts of bacteria often cause the gums to become inflamed or irritated, which makes it even more difficult for them to eat their food comfortably. As a result, it becomes necessary for owners to provide their pup with extra brushing opportunities throughout the day until all incisors have broken through fully.
Which Toys are Best for Puppy Teething
An excellent toy that can help a Shih Tzu puppy teething is the Kong brand rubber chew toys. These products not only offer relief from discomfort but they also provide your pup with something to do during their time of need! In addition, rawhide chews are good treats for dogs going through a tough time with their teeth as well.
Finally, be sure to give them plenty of opportunities to play and exercise throughout the day in order to burn off some energy and distract them from their discomfort when possible.
Conclusion:
There’s no doubt that puppy teething can be a difficult time for both you and your dog. But there are plenty of ways to help them through the process, including providing lots of water and giving them chew toys they’re allowed to gnaw on. Your pup needs all their teeth in order to eat properly as an adult!
Be sure that while he or she is working through this stage, you keep his or her mouth healthy by brushing regularly with pet toothpaste like Petrodex Enzymatic Toothpaste Plus Dental Care Gel for Dogs (Petro-DEX). We hope these tips will make life easier for both of you during puppy teething.
