Puppies are known for their adorable antics, including chewing on just about anything they can get their teeth on. But what do you do when your puppy starts whining while chewing their toy?
There could be several reasons behind this behavior. It could be that they’re teething and their gums are sore, or maybe the toy itself is irritating their gums. So, before you look for solutions, it’s important that you first identify the root of the problem. Only when you discover the reason behind all the whining can you look for solutions that will work for your pup.
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Why is Your Puppy Whining While Chewing Toys?
There are several reasons your puppy may whine while chewing on their toy or just about anything. Some of the most common ones are discussed below.
Teething
Puppies between 3 weeks and 6 months old go through a teething period during which adult teeth replace their baby teeth. This process can be extremely painful, causing inflamed and sore gums. As a way to relieve the discomfort, puppies often chew on things, including their toys.
The solution: You can do a few things to help your pup through this tough time. You can start by giving them chew toys that are specifically designed to soothe teething pain, like those made of rubber or nylon. You can also give them a wet washcloth or towel to chew on, as the moisture will help to relieve the pain. And lastly, you can rub their gums with your finger to help ease the discomfort.
Dental Problems
Another reason your puppy may whine while chewing is if they have an underlying dental problem. For example, if their teeth are not aligned properly, it can cause them great pain. Dental problems can also be caused by plaque and tartar on the teeth, which can irritate the gums.
If your puppy is showing other signs of dental problems, such as not eating, drooling, or pawing at their mouth, it’s important to take them to the vet for an examination.
The solution: If your puppy is diagnosed with a dental problem, your vet will likely recommend a treatment that may include antibiotics, pain medication, and regular teeth cleanings. In some cases, surgery may also be necessary.
The Toy Itself is Irritating Their Gums
Sometimes, the problem may not be with your puppy’s teeth or gums but with the toy itself. If the toy is made of a material that is too hard, it can irritate their gums and cause them to whine. This is often the case with toys made of plastic or hard rubber materials.
The solution: Try giving your puppy a different toy to see if that makes a difference. You may also want to try soaking the toy in warm water for a few minutes to soften it up before giving it to your puppy.
Mouth Cancer
While it’s rare, mouth cancer is a possibility if your puppy is whining while chewing, and there doesn’t seem to be any other explanation. If your puppy has a tumor in their mouth, it can hurt them a lot. Mouth cancer is most common in older dogs, but it can also occur in puppies.
The solution: You’ll have to visit the vet’s clinic for this. If they are diagnosed with cancer, treatment will likely involve surgery to remove the tumor, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy.
Whining is Natural
While it may be annoying, it’s important to remember that whining is a completely natural behavior for puppies. Sometimes, they’re just trying to communicate with you, and there’s nothing to worry about. Other times, they may also whine for your attention or no apparent reason.
However, if the whining continues for an extended period, or if your puppy is also showing other signs of distress, it’s important to take them to the vet for an examination.
How to Stop Your Puppy From Whining?
If your puppy is whining for attention, the best way to stop it is to ignore them. Once they realize they’re not going to get what they want by whining, they’ll likely stop. However, if your puppy is whining because they’re in pain, the best thing you can do is try to identify the cause and address it accordingly.
If you’re unsure what’s causing your puppy’s pain, or if the whining continues despite your best efforts, visiting the vet is a good idea.
In case of no medical issues, constant whining can be a behavioral concern. If your puppy is whining excessively, you can always consult a professional trainer or certified animal behaviorist to find out why and how to address the problem. Some common solutions for behavioral issues include obedience training or increased exercise.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it normal for puppies to whine?
Yes, whining is normal puppies. They may whine for attention or because they’re in pain. However, if the whining is execessive or if your puppy is also showing other signs of distress, you should take them to the vet for an examination.
Why is my puppy whining while chewing a bone?
Generally, puppies whine while chewing bones because they’re enjoying the taste and texture of the bone, and they want more! If your puppy seems to be whining excessively while chewing, you may want to consult with your vet to see if there is an underlying dental or health issue causing the discomfort. Generally, though, puppies just make noise while they chew because they’re enjoying it!
How can I soothe my teething puppy?
There are a few things you can do to soothe your teething puppy. You can give them a frozen cloth to chew on, offer them a teething toy specifically designed for dogs, or rub their gums with your finger. You can also try using a pet-safe numbing gel to help ease their discomfort. Whatever you do, make sure you supervise your puppy closely to prevent them from swallowing anything they shouldn’t.
