Understanding the Puppy Teething Process

Do you have a puppy? If, so, you may find your furry pal chewing on everything as his teeth grow in. Aside from protecting the sofa legs from your puppy’s incessant chewing, there’s not a whole lot to do while your new pet is going through the teething process. Knowing the details of teething is a good idea, though. That way, you know what little Fido is going through, and you can let your vet know right away if something seems amiss. 

Newborn Puppies

Just like human babies, dogs are born with no teeth. They don’t need them right away. After all, your puppy will suckle milk from their mother at first. Little Fido would need to be hand-fed from a bottle if the mother isn’t available. 

2-3 Weeks of Age

When little Fido is around two or three weeks of age, his first baby teeth will start coming out of the gums. The smaller front teeth, called the incisors, are usually the first to come in. The canine teeth will follow. These are the four long fangs. Your puppy’s premolars are the last to come in, appearing behind the canines, near the back of the mouth. When it’s all said and done, your puppy 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 your puppy is about six weeks old, all 28 of his baby teeth will probably have come in. Around this time, your adorable butty will be getting weaned off of the mother’s milk or formula, and they’ll begin eating solid puppy food. (This is also Fido’s cutest stage, but that’s another topic.)

3-4 Months of Age

Around the 12- to 16-week mark, your puppy’s baby teeth will start to fall 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 puppy’s water or food bowls. Usually,  though, puppies simply swallow the baby teeth as they come out. This is perfectly normal. 

6 Months and Older

By the time little Fido is six months old, all 28 baby teeth will likely be gone, replaced by 42 adult teeth. Your furry friend will now have molars in addition to premolars, which are the largest teeth at the back of the mouth. These help with chewing and mashing food. Make sure your pooch has lots of chew toys at this stage! You’ll also need to do some puppyproofing.

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