Teething is a significant phase in the development of French Bulldog puppies, similar to other breeds. During this time, puppies experience discomfort as their adult teeth grow in, replacing their baby teeth. Here’s how to ensure your French Bulldog puppy navigates teething comfortably and safely.
When Do French Bulldog Puppies Start Teething?
French Bulldog puppies are born without teeth, and their baby teeth begin to emerge at around 3 weeks old. By 8 weeks, they typically have a full set of 28 baby teeth. These baby teeth will start to fall out between 4 to 7 months old, making way for 42 adult teeth. Teething occurs when the adult teeth begin to press on the roots of the baby teeth, causing them to fall out.
Tips for Helping Your Teething French Bulldog Puppy
Puppy-Proof Your Home
Teething puppies explore the world with their mouths, so it's essential to puppy-proof your home. Ensure that dangerous items such as medications, cleaning supplies, and electrical cords are out of reach. Move toxic plants and keep small objects that could be swallowed out of the puppy’s area. Providing a safe, secure space with a crate, water bowl, and soft bedding can make your puppy feel secure during this time.
Buy Puppy Teething Toys
Puppy teething toys are crucial for alleviating discomfort and keeping your puppy entertained. Offer a mix of rubber and soft toys, and avoid very hard toys that could break their teeth. Some popular choices include KONG toys, Petstages Cool Teething Sticks, and ChuckIt! Rubber Balls.
Try Frozen Goodies
Frozen toys and treats can soothe your puppy’s gums and provide a fun distraction. Fill a KONG toy with puppy food mixed with water and freeze it. You can also offer chilled or frozen snacks such as green beans, blueberries, seedless watermelon, or carrots. Avoid giving ice cubes, as they can be too hard on your puppy’s teeth.
Practice Soft-Mouth Training
Teething puppies may be extra mouthy, so it’s important to teach them what is appropriate to chew on. If your puppy gets mouthy, offer a toy or chew item. If they continue, calmly separate yourself from them to teach that biting doesn’t get attention. Use positive reinforcement to reward desired behaviors, strengthening your bond without fear or anxiety.
Teething can be a challenging time for French Bulldog puppies and their owners, but with the right care and preparation, you can help your puppy navigate this phase comfortably. By puppy-proofing your home, providing suitable teething toys, offering frozen treats, and practicing soft-mouth training, you’ll ensure your French Bulldog grows into a happy, healthy adult dog.
