If you’ve noticed your puppy chewing more or discovering tiny teeth on the floor, you might be wondering: when do puppies start losing teeth? Just like human babies, puppies go through a teething phase. This natural process is crucial for developing their adult teeth and good dental health. In this guide, we’ll cover when puppies start teething, the stages involved, signs to look for, and how to support your furry friend through the process.
Table of Contents
- When Do Puppies Begin Losing Their Teeth?
- Teething Stages: From Milk Teeth to Adult Teeth
- Common Signs of Puppy Teething
- How to Help a Teething Puppy
- Long-Term Puppy Dental Care Tips
- When to See the Vet About Teething
- FAQ: Puppy Teething Questions
- Conclusion
When Do Puppies Begin Losing Their Teeth?
Puppies typically start losing their baby teeth at around 12 to 16 weeks old (3 to 4 months). This process continues until they are about 6 to 7 months old, by which time most puppies will have all their adult teeth—usually 42 in total.
Here’s a general teething timeline:
- 3-4 weeks old: Baby teeth (deciduous teeth) start to come in
- 6 weeks old: Full set of 28 baby teeth typically present
- 12-16 weeks: Baby teeth begin falling out
- 4-6 months: Adult teeth erupt and replace baby teeth
- 6-7 months: Full set of 42 adult teeth established
Teething Stages: From Milk Teeth to Adult Teeth
Understanding the different phases of teething can help you care for your puppy appropriately:
- Stage 1: Milk teeth emerge (3–6 weeks)
- Stage 2: Puppy begins to lose baby teeth (12–16 weeks)
- Stage 3: Adult teeth come in (4–6 months)
- Stage 4: Final adjustment and tooth alignment (6–7 months)
During these stages, it’s normal for puppies to chew frequently and sometimes experience mild discomfort.
Common Signs of Puppy Teething
Puppy teething often comes with tell-tale behaviors and symptoms. Look out for:
- Excessive chewing or biting of toys, furniture, or hands
- Drooling more than usual
- Swollen or bleeding gums
- Missing teeth or finding baby teeth around the house
- Decreased appetite or reluctance to eat hard kibble
- Irritability or whimpering during chewing
These symptoms are temporary and usually resolve once teething ends around 6 to 7 months of age.
How to Help a Teething Puppy
You can support your puppy through teething with safe and soothing strategies:
- Provide chew toys: Look for rubber or nylon toys made for teething puppies
- Use frozen treats: Ice cubes or chilled carrots can soothe sore gums
- Keep training consistent: Redirect inappropriate chewing to toys, not hands or furniture
- Maintain oral hygiene: Start gently brushing their teeth with a puppy toothbrush and paste
- Offer soft food if needed: Temporarily moisten dry kibble if chewing becomes difficult
Long-Term Puppy Dental Care Tips
Good habits started early can lead to a lifetime of healthy teeth:
- Brush teeth regularly: Aim for 2–3 times a week, ideally daily
- Schedule vet dental checks: Include dental health during routine vet visits
- Choose dental-friendly treats: Approved chews help reduce plaque buildup
- Monitor for misalignment: Some puppies retain baby teeth or develop malocclusion
When to See the Vet About Teething
Most teething issues are normal, but consult your vet if you notice:
- Persistent baby teeth after 6 months
- Bleeding that doesn’t stop or signs of infection
- Difficulty eating or chewing for extended periods
- Bad breath or pus around the gums
Retained baby teeth may need extraction to avoid crowding or infection.
FAQ: Puppy Teething Questions
Is it normal for my puppy to bleed while teething?
Yes, light bleeding from the gums is common and typically not a cause for concern.
Can teething cause my puppy to lose appetite?
Yes, sore gums can make chewing uncomfortable, leading to reduced appetite for a few days.
Should I be worried if my puppy hasn’t lost any teeth by 5 months?
It’s slightly late but still within normal range. Consult your vet during your next check-up for reassurance.
How many teeth do puppies lose?
Puppies lose 28 baby teeth and grow 42 permanent adult teeth in total.
Can I give my teething puppy bones?
No. Avoid hard bones, especially cooked ones, as they can fracture teeth. Stick to vet-approved teething toys and chews.
Conclusion
When do puppies start losing teeth? Most begin at around 12 to 16 weeks, continuing until they’re about 6 to 7 months old. This is a natural and important part of their growth. By understanding the teething process, recognizing signs, and offering support through proper toys and care, you’ll help your puppy navigate this phase smoothly—and set the foundation for a lifetime of healthy teeth.