Every puppy goes through two main teething phases: the deciduous (baby) teeth eruption phase, which begins as early as three to four weeks of age and completes by around six to eight weeks, and the permanent teeth eruption phase, spanning approximately 12 to 24 weeks and typically finishing by six to seven months. During the first phase, a puppy will develop 28 sharp puppy teeth that enable weaning and initial chewing behavior. In the second phase, these baby teeth are gradually shed as 42 adult teeth emerge, with the process often concluding around six months, though some large breeds may finish closer to seven months. Common signs throughout teething include increased chewing, drooling, mild gum swelling, and occasional minor bleeding. To manage discomfort, offer safe chew toys, frozen treats, and supervise closely to prevent destructive chewing. Persistent retained baby teeth, severe pain, or signs of infection warrant a veterinary consult to avoid long‑term dental issues. Establishing good dental care—daily brushing and regular vet exams—after teething supports lifelong oral health.
Puppy teething is a natural developmental milestone marked by the emergence and replacement of teeth. Understanding how long it lasts and what to expect helps pet owners provide the right care and prevent behavioral issues. Teething discomfort can lead to chewing on household items, but with proper guidance, puppies and owners can navigate this stage smoothly.
1. Puppy Teething Process Overview
Puppies are born without teeth. At about three to four weeks old, deciduous teeth begin to erupt through the gums, providing crucial tools for weaning and initial exploration of solid food. These 28 baby teeth include incisors, canines, and premolars, and are temporary replacements for the 42 permanent adult teeth that will follow.
Deciduous (Baby) Teeth
- Eruption Onset: Incisors and canines typically erupt first at around three to four weeks.
- Completion: By six to eight weeks, most puppies have all 28 deciduous teeth in place, ready for weaning from mother’s milk to solid puppy food.
Permanent (Adult) Teeth
- Shedding of Baby Teeth: Starting around 12 to 16 weeks, puppy teeth begin to loosen and fall out as permanent teeth push through.
- Emergence of Adult Teeth: Between 16 and 24 weeks, puppies grow their full set of 42 adult teeth, including molars, canines, and more robust premolars.
- Completion of Teething: Most puppies finish teething by six months of age; some large breeds may continue until seven months.
2. Teething Timeline and Stages
1. Early Baby‑Teeth Phase (3–8 Weeks)
From week three onward, baby incisors appear first, followed by canines and premolars over the next several weeks. By week eight, a full set of 28 deciduous teeth allows puppies to chew and explore solid food safely.
2. Transition Phase (12–16 Weeks)
At around three months old, puppies begin to lose one puppy tooth for each emerging adult tooth. This stage can be uncomfortable, heightening chewing behaviors and occasional gum soreness.
3. Adult‑Teeth Eruption (16–24 Weeks)
Permanent teeth—stronger and larger—continue to replace baby teeth until about six months of age. Molars, which do not have baby counterparts, appear during this period and complete the dental set.
4. Final Teething (6–7 Months)
By six months, most puppies have their full complement of adult teeth. Any retained deciduous teeth beyond this time should be evaluated by a veterinarian to prevent misalignment or oral health issues.
3. Signs and Symptoms of Teething
Teething puppies commonly exhibit:
- Increased Chewing: A natural attempt to relieve gum pressure; puppies may mouth furniture, toys, or hands more frequently.
- Drooling and Gum Swelling: Salivation and visible puffiness around erupting teeth.
- Irritability: Discomfort may manifest as fussiness or restlessness.
- Minor Bleeding: Occasional specks of blood on chew toys or in saliva as teeth break through.
4. Factors Influencing Teething Duration
- Breed and Size: Smaller breeds sometimes take longer to complete dental transitions, while larger breeds may finish earlier.
- Individual Variation: Genetic factors and overall health can speed up or delay teething by several weeks.
5. Managing Teething Discomfort
To soothe a teething puppy:
- Safe Chew Toys: Offer rubber or nylon toys designed for teething, which massage gums and reduce soreness.
- Frozen Treats: Chilled washcloths or ice-packed chew toys provide cooling relief.
- Dental Chews: Veterinarian‑approved chews can clean teeth and massage gums simultaneously.
- Supervision: Redirect chewing away from inappropriate objects to safe alternatives to protect your belongings.
6. When to Consult a Veterinarian
Seek professional advice if you notice:
- Retained Baby Teeth: Loose baby teeth not falling out by seven months.
- Excessive Bleeding: Persistent or heavy bleeding around gums.
- Signs of Infection: Swelling, pus, or foul breath indicating potential dental infections.
- Behavioral Changes: Sudden refusal to eat or extreme irritability suggesting severe pain.
7. Post‑Teething Dental Care
Good oral hygiene after teething ensures long‑term health:
- Daily Brushing: Introduce gentle tooth brushing with canine toothpaste.
- Regular Vet Exams: Schedule dental check‑ups to monitor alignment, tartar buildup, and overall mouth health.
- Proper Diet: High‑quality kibble or dental diets support strong teeth and healthy gums.
Puppy teething typically spans from about three weeks of age through six to seven months, encompassing the eruption of 28 deciduous teeth and their replacement by 42 permanent teeth. While teething can cause discomfort and increased chewing, owners can alleviate pain with appropriate chew toys, frozen treats, and close supervision. Monitoring for complications and maintaining dental hygiene from an early age are key to ensuring your puppy grows into a healthy adult dog with a strong, well‑aligned bite.
By understanding how long puppy teething lasts and implementing these care strategies, you can help your puppy navigate this critical developmental stage comfortably and set the foundation for lifelong oral health.
