Australian Shepherds are a popular breed of dog that is known for their intelligence, loyalty, and high energy levels. Like all breeds of dogs, Australian Shepherds go through a teething process during which they lose their baby teeth and grow their adult teeth. In this article, we will explore when Australian Shepherds stop teething and what to expect during this important period of their development.
What is Teething?
Teething is a natural process that occurs in all puppies, including Australian Shepherds. During this process, puppies lose their baby teeth and grow their adult teeth. The teething process usually begins when puppies are around three months old and can last until they are seven months old. During this time, puppies may experience discomfort and pain as their teeth grow and push through their gums.
What to Expect During Teething?
During teething, Australian Shepherds may experience a variety of symptoms, including:
Drooling: Puppies may drool more than usual during teething as their mouths produce more saliva.
Chewing: Puppies may chew on anything they can get their teeth on to relieve the discomfort of teething. This can include furniture, shoes, and other household items.
Irritability: Puppies may be more irritable than usual during teething as they experience discomfort and pain.
Bleeding gums: Puppies’ gums may bleed as their teeth grow and push through the gums.
When Do Australian Shepherds Stop Teething?
Australian Shepherds usually stop teething between the ages of six and seven months old. By this time, they should have all of their adult teeth. However, it’s important to note that the exact timing of teething can vary depending on the individual dog.
How to Help Your Australian Shepherd During Teething?
There are several things that you can do to help your Australian Shepherd during teething, including:
Provide chew toys: Providing your Australian Shepherd with chew toys can help relieve the discomfort of teething and prevent them from chewing on household items.
Freeze toys: You can also freeze chew toys to provide extra relief for your Australian Shepherd’s sore gums.
Cold washcloth: Dampen a washcloth and freeze it, then give it to your Australian Shepherd to chew on. The cold temperature can help relieve discomfort.
Soft food: During teething, your Australian Shepherd’s gums may be sore, making it difficult for them to eat hard food. Consider providing soft food or soaking their kibble in water to make it easier for them to eat.
Caring for Your Australian Shepherd’s Teeth
Caring for your Australian Shepherd’s teeth is important to ensure that they have healthy teeth and gums throughout their life. Here are some tips for caring for your Australian Shepherd’s teeth:
Brush their teeth: Brush your Australian Shepherd’s teeth regularly to remove plaque and prevent tartar buildup.
Provide dental chews: Dental chews can help clean your Australian Shepherd’s teeth and freshen their breath.
Regular dental checkups: Take your Australian Shepherd to the veterinarian for regular dental checkups to ensure that their teeth and gums are healthy.
Conclusion
In conclusion, teething is a natural process that occurs in all puppies, including Australian Shepherds. Australian Shepherds usually stop teething between the ages of six and seven months old, but the exact timing can vary depending on the individual dog. During teething, it’s important to provide your Australian Shepherd with chew toys and other items to help relieve discomfort. Caring for your Australian Shepherd’s teeth is also important to ensure that they have healthy teeth and gums throughout their life. By providing proper care and attention during teething, you can help ensure that your Australian Shepherd grows up to be a healthy and happy dog.
FAQs
How long does teething last in Australian Shepherds?
Teething in Australian Shepherds typically lasts from around 3 weeks of age until about 6 months. During this period, puppies will lose their baby teeth and grow their adult teeth. The teething phase can be uncomfortable for puppies, leading to increased chewing and biting behavior.
Do Australian Shepherds grow out of biting?
Yes, Australian Shepherds generally grow out of the biting phase as they mature and complete the teething process, usually by 6 months of age. However, biting and nipping can continue if not properly addressed through training and socialization. Consistent guidance and teaching appropriate behaviors are essential to ensure they grow out of this habit.
What age is dog teething the worst?
The teething phase is usually at its worst between 3 to 6 months of age when puppies are losing their baby teeth and their adult teeth are coming in. During this time, puppies may experience discomfort, leading to increased chewing and nipping as they seek relief.
How to stop an Australian Shepherd from nipping?
To stop an Australian Shepherd from nipping, consistent training and redirection are key. Provide appropriate chew toys to satisfy their teething needs, and use positive reinforcement to reward good behavior. Teach bite inhibition by yelping or saying “no” firmly if they nip, then redirect their attention to a toy. Consistency, patience, and regular training sessions will help reduce nipping behavior over time. Socializing your puppy with other dogs can also teach them appropriate play behaviors. If nipping persists, consider consulting a professional dog trainer for additional guidance.
