Do puppies run a fever when they’re teething

Do puppies run a fever when they’re teething? It’s the 3 a.m. Google search that keeps first-time puppy parents up, staring at their sleeping ball of fur—wondering if those red gums and extra naps mean something’s wrong. Let’s hash it out like we’re at the dog park, watching your pup chew on a stick while we chat.

Here’s the straight talk: Teething itself doesn’t usually spark a fever. Those tiny teeth pushing through the gums can make your puppy’s mouth sore, sure—you might notice more chewing (shoes, couch corners, even your hand when you reach for a treat), swollen gums, or a little drool. But a true fever? That’s a body fighting something else, like an infection. Vets say a normal puppy temp is 99.5-102.5°F; anything over 103°F is cause for a call. I remember my neighbor in Denver panicking when her Lab mix, Luna, stopped eating at 12 weeks—turned out she just had a loose tooth, not a fever. The vet laughed and said, “They’re like toddlers cutting molars—cranky, not contagious.”

So what should you do if your pup seems off? Start by checking their gums—pale or super red? That’s a flag. Offer frozen carrots (not ice cubes, which can crack teeth) or a rubber Kong stuffed with peanut butter (xylitol-free, obviously) to soothe soreness. Keep a digital thermometer handy—yes, the rectal kind, but don’t stress. Lubricate it with coconut oil, hold their tail up gently, and insert a half-inch. My friend in Austin swears by singing to her pup during this—distraction works wonders. If the number hits 103, call the vet. Teething pain doesn’t spike temps, so it’s better safe than sorry.

Now, let’s loop in the stuff that keeps you (and your community) happy. In most U.S. states, like California or New York, your pup needs their first distemper-parvo shot by 16 weeks, and rabies by 4 months—landlords and dog parks will ask for proof, so keep those records. When you’re out in the neighborhood, even if your teething pup is wiggly, keep them leashed—start practicing loose-leash walking early with tiny treats (cheese bits work magic). And please, bag the poop—cities like Chicago fine up to $500 for leaving it, and it’s just common decency.

Oh, and that urge to scold when they gnaw your favorite shoes? Don’t. Yelling or tapping their nose? It confuses them more. Instead, clap once to get their attention, then hand them a chew toy and praise like they just won a trophy. Positive reinforcement—think of it as teaching a toddler to use a spoon, not slapping their hand. In apartments, this matters extra—late-night chewing sounds carry, so rotate toys to keep them busy and save your neighbor’s sleep.

At the end of the day, teething is a phase—messy, noisy, but temporary. Fever? Rare, but worth checking. And remember, being a great pup parent isn’t just about treating symptoms—it’s about showing up, with patience, treats, and a poop bag always in your pocket.