Understanding the Puppy Teething Process

Is your puppy teething? Aside from protecting the sofa legs from your puppy’s incessant chewing, there’s not a whole lot for you to do while your new pet is going through the teething process. Knowing the details and timeline of teething is a good idea, though. That way, you know what your puppy is going through and when. Plus, you can let your vet know right away if something seems amiss. 

Newborn Puppies

Just like human babies, puppies are born without teeth. They just don’t need them at this stage. Ideally, puppies will start out nursing from their mamas. However, if the momma dog isn’t available, little Fido can be bottlefed for a while. 

2-3 Weeks of Age

Around two or three weeks of age, your puppy’s first baby teeth will start appearing. The smaller front teeth, called the incisors, are usually the first to appear. The canine teeth will follow. These are the four long fangs. Your furry buddy’s premolars are the last to appear, and they come in behind the canines near the back of the mouth. When all is said (or barked) and done, little Fido will have 28 baby teeth. These are known medically as the deciduous teeth and are often referred to as the “milk teeth.” 

6 Weeks of Age

By the time little Fido is about six weeks old, all 28 of his baby teeth will probably have come in. Around this time, your pup will be in the process of getting weaned off of the mother’s milk or formula, and they’ll begin eating solid puppy food. This is about the time for you to start offering suitable chew toys.

3-4 Months of Age

Around the 12- to 16-week point, your pet’s baby teeth will start falling out. The adult teeth come in and simply push the deciduous teeth out of the way, so you may occasionally see a baby tooth on the floor or by your furry friend’s water or food bowls. Most often, though, puppies will simply swallow the baby teeth as they come out, which is perfectly normal. 

6 Months and Older

By the time your canine friend is six months old, all 28 baby teeth will likely be gone, replaced by 42 adult teeth. Your furry buddy will now have molars in addition to premolars, which are the largest teeth at the back of the mouth that help with chewing and mashing food. And yes, he’ll still need lots of chew toys at this age.

Do you have questions about your puppy’s teething? We’re here to help. Call your vet clinic today.