My shih-tzu mix puppy is losing is milk teeth and I have noticed he seems to be a bit ouchy when trying to chew his food--he is rolling the kibbles around in his mouth and trying but not succeeding at crunching them like usual. I believe he is at the teething stage where is adult molars are starting (no chewing problems up until a few days ago).
Would it be detrimental to the development of his teeth if I soften his kibble a bit with some warm water--not to mush state, but just a bit softer? I did it this morning and he ate better than he has in two days and seemed very happy. Just not sure if doing this will cause any problems with the normal process.
Probably a silly question, but he's my special little guy and I want to make sure we are doing everything right.
PeeBee, I think that the Asker means that she has not got her baby teeth yet. You seem to suspect that she is very young and if she is not weened, eating will be a problem. Thankfully she has a very caring mum or dad. Try soaking the puppy food for about twenty minutes in cold water, then before you feed her add a small amount of hot water. Mix this up and make sure that it is just slightly warm. Put a small amount in the palm of your hand and feed her from this. I think that you should try to get your friend to find out how old your puppy is, she may need some special treatment. Or you could take her to the vets and they will know.
It's fine to add a little warm watter to kibble. I do it with my adult dog simply because it makes it go down easier for her. It is not however necessary to do this during the teething stage. if you think she looked more comfortable having it that way then yes continue, but yeah don't turn it into mush, because one of the ways that pups lose their teeth is through chewing, don't be surprised if you find a tooth in one of her toys even!
Actually, dry food does Nothing for the teeth. That is a dog food myth. Just a money making thing that was invented by dog food companies to make you purchase dry dog food. NOTHING IN IT TO CLEAN TEETH. All my dogs eat can food that does not contain byproducts or animal fat. (chicken fat is ok but animal fat is any road kill) Treats for the teeth: I don't like rawhide it can wrap around intestines. Purchase bully sticks, they are lowest in fat and a great toothbrush for your dog as well as a treat. Next time you go to the vet have him check the teeth to make sure they are growing properly.