Golden Retriever puppies are undeniably adorable, but navigating the challenges of raising them, especially during the teething phase, can be quite a task. Teething usually kicks in around three to four months, bringing with it an onslaught of biting and chewing. To help you and your pup sail through this period, here are the essential tips.
An overtired teething puppy can become even more bitey and wild. With a recommended 18 hours of sleep a day, it’s crucial to create a peaceful environment for your pup to rest. Utilize a crate, pen, or baby gate with a favorite chew toy to help them settle down for much-needed sleep.
Teething puppies are notorious for finding inappropriate outlets for their chewing needs, including your shoes and furniture. To avoid this, offer a variety of safe, dog-friendly chew toys. Options like bully sticks, frozen Kongs, crunch core bones, tuffy stuffed toys, and even whole carrots can be enticing and soothing for their sore gums.
Understanding the history of Golden Retrievers as bird retrievers helps to appreciate their inclination to put things in their mouths. When your puppy is being extra mouthy, redirect their biting to appropriate toys. Using a lightweight leash or introducing a drag leash allows you to guide them away gently, avoiding the need to grab or chase.
Sometimes, redirecting your puppy’s behavior may not be enough. This is where smart puppy management comes into play. Alter the environment to make unwanted behaviors unlikely or impossible. Playpens, leashing around furniture, or baby gates can help create controlled spaces for your teething puppy, saving your home and sanity.
If your puppy’s sore gums make playtime tricky, consider removing yourself from the situation. Play in spots where you can easily step away or use a baby gate to create a barrier. Over time, your puppy will associate biting with the end of playtime, helping them learn to control their mouth.
While these tips will guide you through the teething phase, it’s essential to avoid common mistakes that can make things harder for both you and your pup. Understand that nipping and chewing are normal developmental phases, and punishing your puppy for these behaviors can damage the trust between you. Instead, focus on positive reinforcement, redirecting, and creating a supportive environment.
By following these strategies, you’ll not only survive the teething phase with your Golden Retriever puppy but also strengthen the positive bond between you and your furry friend. Remember, patience and understanding go a long way in raising a happy and well-adjusted puppy.
