Why Dogs Grind Teeth at Night

Teething Pain in Puppies

Puppies often grind or chew their teeth at night because they are teething. This process causes discomfort as new teeth push through the gums—similar to how human babies experience teething pain. Chewing helps relieve that ache by applying pressure to the gums. Since puppies explore their world primarily through their mouths, they naturally use chewing as a way to investigate and soothe themselves.

It’s important not to punish a teething puppy for chewing. Instead, provide safe, durable chew toys like bones or antlers. These help redirect the behavior and satisfy the natural urge to chew. Supervision is key: if a dog can’t access dangerous items like shoes or furniture, they’re less likely to chew on them.

Anxiety and Stress as Triggers

Dogs may grind their teeth at night if they are anxious or stressed. While the retrieved passages don’t detail specific anxiety signs, they do confirm that chewing—especially when uncontrolled—can be a symptom of fear or nervousness. If a dog is grinding teeth during sleep or in quiet moments, it may be a sign of underlying emotional distress.

Addressing anxiety requires identifying the source. This could be loud noises, separation, or changes in routine. Training techniques that build confidence and provide mental stimulation can help reduce anxious behaviors. In persistent cases, consulting a veterinarian or certified trainer is recommended to rule out medical causes and develop a behavior plan.

Instinctual Chewing Behavior

Chewing is deeply rooted in a dog’s natural instincts. Thousands of years ago, dogs survived by gnawing through bones and marrow. Even today, many dogs retain this innate desire to chew and grind. This instinct can manifest at night, especially if the dog has no appropriate outlet during the day.

Providing a variety of safe, durable chew toys can satisfy this instinct. Experiment with different textures and shapes to find what your dog prefers. The goal is not to stop chewing entirely, but to teach your dog what is acceptable to chew on. This reduces the risk of damage to household items and prevents injury from chewing on unsafe objects.

Boredom and Lack of Stimulation

When dogs are bored, they may resort to chewing or grinding their teeth as a way to occupy themselves. Without mental or physical stimulation, a dog may turn to repetitive behaviors like chewing to pass the time. This is especially common in dogs left alone for long periods.

To prevent this, ensure your dog gets daily exercise, training sessions, and interactive toys. Puzzle feeders and chew toys that require effort can keep a dog mentally engaged. Supervision and environmental management—such as crate training or baby gates—can also help prevent unwanted chewing when you’re not around.

When to Seek Professional Help

If teeth grinding persists despite proper training and environmental management, it may be a sign of a deeper issue. While the passages don’t mention medical conditions like dental pain or neurological disorders, they do emphasize that chewing on dangerous substances should prompt a vet visit.

Always consult a veterinarian if you suspect your dog is in pain or harming itself. A vet can rule out dental problems or other health issues. A certified dog trainer can also help identify behavioral causes and create a tailored plan to correct the behavior.