Dealing with Teething in Dachshund Puppies

Welcome to this text-based self-guided online lesson for Dachshund owners about Dachshund puppies. As a Dachshund owner, you may have noticed that your puppy is going through a teething phase, which can be a challenging time for both you and your furry friend. The primary goal of this lesson is to help you understand the teething process in Dachshund puppies and provide you with effective solutions to deal with it.

What is Teething in Dachshund Puppies?

Teething is a natural process that occurs in all puppies, including Dachshunds. It is the stage when a puppy's baby teeth fall out, and permanent teeth start to grow. This process usually starts around three months of age and can last up to eight months.

Why is Teething in Dachshund Puppies a Challenge?

Teething in Dachshund puppies can be a challenging time for both you and your puppy. Your puppy may experience discomfort and pain, which may cause them to chew on anything they can get their teeth on, including your favorite shoes or furniture. This behavior can be frustrating and destructive, but it is a normal part of the teething process.

As a responsible Dachshund owner, it is essential to understand how to deal with teething in your puppy to ensure they stay healthy, happy, and out of trouble.

Let's dive into some effective solutions to help you deal with teething in your Dachshund puppy.

The Teething Process

Teething is a natural process for Dachshund puppies, just like any other breed of dog. It usually starts when they are around three to four months old and can last up to eight months. During this time, your Dachshund puppy will experience discomfort and pain as the adult teeth push through the gums. This can cause them to chew on anything they can get their teeth on, including furniture, shoes, and even your hands. To help your Dachshund puppy through this phase, make sure they have access to plenty of chew toys. These toys should be soft and pliable, so they don't damage their developing teeth. You can also soothe their gums by giving them ice cubes to chew on or by freezing a damp washcloth and letting them gnaw on it.

Potty Training and Teething

It's important to note that teething can also affect your Dachshund puppy's potty training. As their teeth begin to come in, they may experience more frequent urges to chew and bite, which can lead to accidents inside the house. To prevent this, make sure to take your Dachshund puppy outside for potty breaks more frequently during this time. In addition to providing your Dachshund puppy with plenty of chew toys, it's also important to supervise them closely during this phase. Keep an eye on them at all times and redirect their attention to appropriate chew toys if they start to chew on something they shouldn't. With patience and consistency, you can help your Dachshund puppy get through this teething phase and come out the other side with healthy, strong adult teeth.

Choosing Appropriate Chew Toys for Your Dachshund Puppy

When it comes to potty training your Dachshund puppy, choosing appropriate chew toys is an essential aspect of the process. Puppies, like human babies, love to chew on things, and if you do not provide them with suitable toys, they will find things to gnaw on, which can be damaging to your home and harmful to their health.

Recommended Chew Toys for Dachshund Puppies

One of the best chew toys for Dachshund puppies is a Kong toy. These toys are made of durable rubber and can be filled with treats, which will keep your puppy engaged for an extended period. Another option is a Nylabone, which is made of tough nylon and comes in different flavors to entice your puppy.

It is important to avoid giving your Dachshund puppy any toys that are too small or made of soft material. These types of toys can be a choking hazard or easily torn apart, which can lead to the ingestion of small pieces that can cause intestinal blockages.

The Importance of Chew Toys for Potty Training

Remember, providing your Dachshund puppy with appropriate chew toys will not only help with potty training but also keep them occupied and happy. Make sure to supervise your puppy while they are playing with their toys and replace them if they become worn or damaged.

Preventing Destructive Behavior During Teething in Dachshund Puppies

Teething is a significant milestone in a Dachshund puppy's life. During this period, puppies' teeth develop, and they feel the urge to chew on objects to relieve the discomfort. Unfortunately, this can lead to destructive behavior, especially when the puppy is left unattended. Here are some tips to prevent destructive behavior during teething:

1. Provide appropriate chew toys: Dachshund puppies need to chew to ease the pain of teething. Therefore, it's essential to provide suitable chew toys to satisfy this urge. Choose durable, non-toxic, and safe chew toys that can withstand the puppy's teeth. Avoid toys that are too small, as they can be a choking hazard.

2. Supervise your puppy: During teething, it's crucial to keep a close eye on your puppy. If you can't supervise your puppy, keep them in a secure, puppy-proofed area, such as a crate or playpen. This will prevent them from chewing on inappropriate objects or furniture.

3. Discipline appropriately: If you catch your puppy chewing on something they shouldn't, discipline them appropriately. However, avoid physical punishment, as this can lead to fear and aggression. Instead, use a firm tone and redirect them to an appropriate chew toy.

4. Use bitter apple spray: If your puppy continues to chew on inappropriate objects, you can use bitter apple spray to deter them. This spray has a strong taste that most puppies find unpleasant, and it can help discourage destructive behavior.

By following these tips, you can help prevent destructive behavior during teething and ensure that your Dachshund puppy stays safe and healthy.

Tips for Teaching a Dachshund Puppy to Chew on Appropriate Toys

When it comes to potty training a Dachshund puppy, one of the biggest challenges is teaching them to chew on appropriate toys. Puppies, in general, love to chew, but Dachshunds have a particular affinity for chewing, which can be destructive if not trained properly. Here are some tips that can help you train your Dachshund puppy to chew on appropriate toys:

1. Provide a variety of toys: It's essential to provide your Dachshund puppy with a variety of toys to chew on. This will prevent boredom and reduce the likelihood of them chewing on inappropriate items, such as shoes or furniture. Choose toys that are specifically designed for puppies and are safe for them to chew on.

2. Use positive reinforcement: When your Dachshund puppy chews on an appropriate toy, be sure to praise and reward them. Positive reinforcement is a powerful tool in training puppies, and it will help them learn what behaviors are acceptable.

3. Redirect inappropriate chewing: If you catch your Dachshund puppy chewing on something they shouldn't redirect their attention to an appropriate toy. Don't scold or punish them, as this can be confusing and counterproductive.

4. Supervise your puppy: When your Dachshund puppy is not in their crate, keep an eye on them. This will allow you to intervene if they start chewing on something inappropriate and redirect them to an appropriate toy.

5. Rotate toys: To prevent boredom, rotate your Dachshund puppy's toys regularly. This will keep them interested and reduce the likelihood of them chewing on inappropriate items.

With patience and consistency, you can train your Dachshund puppy to chew on appropriate toys. Remember to provide a variety of toys, use positive reinforcement, redirect inappropriate chewing, supervise your puppy, and rotate toys regularly. By following these tips, you can help your Dachshund puppy develop good chewing habits and avoid destructive behavior.

Common Mistakes in Potty Training a Dachshund Puppy

When it comes to potty training a Dachshund puppy, there are several common mistakes that owners make that can hinder the process. One of the biggest challenges to potty training a Dachshund puppy is dealing with teething.

Dealing with Teething

During the teething phase, which generally occurs from three to six months of age, your Dachshund puppy will experience discomfort and pain in their gums. As a result, they will chew on anything they can get their teeth on to relieve the discomfort. Unfortunately, this often includes household items such as shoes, furniture, and even walls.

To avoid this issue, it is essential to provide your Dachshund puppy with plenty of appropriate chew toys. Make sure to choose toys that are specifically designed for teething puppies, as they are softer and easier on your puppy's gums.

Punishing for Accidents

Another mistake that owners make is punishing their Dachshund puppy for accidents. It is important to remember that accidents are a natural part of the potty training process, and punishing your puppy will only make them fearful and anxious. Instead, focus on positive reinforcement by rewarding your puppy when they go potty in the designated area.

Lastly, consistency is key. Establish a routine for your Dachshund puppy, taking them outside at regular intervals throughout the day. This will help them learn when it is time to go potty and where they should do it.

Wrapping Up: Dachshund Owners

Don't Forget the Importance of Dealing with Teething in Dachshund Puppies

In this lesson, we've covered some essential information for all Dachshund owners, especially those dealing with teething puppies. We've talked about the importance of providing appropriate chew toys and preventing destructive behavior. Remember, dealing with teething is an essential step in raising a happy and healthy Dachshund.

Review and Continue Learning

If you need to review any of the information covered in this lesson, please feel free to do so. Additionally, we encourage you to continue learning and exploring the other lessons in this course. The more you know about your Dachshund, the better equipped you will be to provide them with the care and attention they need.

Thank you for taking the time to learn about Dachshund owners and dealing with teething in Dachshund puppies. We hope this lesson has been helpful and informative.

Back to: Dachshund Prodigy > Course