Baby teeth and Licking

[Jason Ware]

Chewie has hit about 4 monthes and I've noticed his canines are growing in right behind his baby canines. Is this normal or is he supposed to lose the old ones and then let the new ones replace them?

The other question is about him licking himseld in the goin area. He does it all the time. He'll be in the middle of walking or playing or anything and stop to lick. I do know that dogs to lick themselves to clean but I'm wondering if this is more than that.

On a side note, Chewie went to his first puppy class at a local PetSmart and he had lots of fun. He was trying to show his dominent side on all the other dogs but he also got to play some too. He is the largest dog in the class but he found a chocolate lab to play with. The trainer seems to know her stuff and tries to spend equal time among all the puppies and show us how we should begin training them. After 6 weeks I'm really starting to enjoy him. It now has become really worth that 1st week we had together.

Jason,

Have fun with him, this stage goes too fast!! His baby teeth should loosen, sometimes the adult teeth push them out. If not consult your vet. This can be painful for the pup, give him an ice cube or frozen washcloth. Also, I have noticed with many pups the constant cleaning. As long as there is no medical reason, my vet advised that it has something to do with a scent that
becomes stronger as he grows up. If he is stopping in the middle of play, he may just have an itch.
Good Luck with him.

[rlogle]

I was told by my vet when I questioned why Sarge was cleaning himself like a cat, that Rott's were very clean animals and this is nothing to worry about, it would stop in time. Sarge has always done it, and not only to his genital area but his feet, legs, stomach and back.

[Jason Ware]

Thanks for the replies so far. Makes me feel that Chewie is just as "normal" as everyone else.