Barney (18 week old cocker spaniel) is teething.  He is sucking on all his soft toys and I've noticed little spots of blood so his gums must be bleeding, poor thing, he cries lots and we have lots of cuddle sessions.  My question is, he has now gone off his food, is this normal? even though I am soaking it (Burns Mini Bites) in warm water and mashing it up for him.  Is there anything I can do/give him to help?  :(

Jax

Hi Jax

Like babies, puppies can go off their food, have stomach upsets and in addition have excess gunk in their eyes etc whilst they are teething.

If you give him something solid to chew on this will help the new teeth break though the gums and the babyteeth to fall out.

Giving him all soggy food may lengthen the teething process

Christine

Frozen flannels etc are also very good, carrots etc

Hi, I'd give him something solid to chew, but maybe also give him mashed food if he finds that easier to pick up: I've had puppies who have lost nearly all their front teeth at the same time & they've been crying with frustration because they are hungry & can't pick the food out of the dish!

I think I should re-phase some of my reply.

Giving him nothing but soggy food may lenghten the teething process - give him some to eat so he does not get hungry and some to chew on to help bring his teeth through

my little girl is teething right now too, i can tell when she's about to lose a tooth because she suddenly goes absolutely manic and tries to eat me !

the thing she likes best is a carrot or her rope toy soaked in marmite and hot water then put in the freezer - best in the kitchen though, gets messy on carpets !

sarah
x

ps. lily has almost got a whole set now and they r much chunkier and less painful on the fingers !