Puppyhood is an exciting journey filled with wagging tails, playful energy, and plenty of curiosity. But for many new dog owners, one of the biggest challenges is handling a teething puppy. Puppies experience a teething period, much like newborns do stage that can cause discomfort, chewing problems, and sometimes frustration for pet parents. If you’ve ever wondered when do puppy teeth fall out, do puppies lose their teeth, or what age do puppies lose their teeth, this guide will help you understand the process and provide practical solutions. In this article, we’ll share the best helpful tips for a teething puppy to ease their discomfort, protect your home, and build good habits for the future.
Understanding Puppy Teething
Before we dive into solutions, it’s important to understand what’s happening in your puppy’s mouth.
- Do dogs have baby teeth?
- Yes. Puppies are born without teeth, just like people. Around 3 weeks of age, they develop sharp little “milk teeth” or baby teeth.
- How many teeth do dogs get?
- The 28 baby teeth that puppies have ultimately fall off. As adults, dogs end up with 42 permanent teeth.
- When does teething start for puppies?
- Teething usually begins at around 3 weeks of age when baby teeth erupt, and intensifies between 12–16 weeks when permanent teeth push through.
- Do dogs lose their baby teeth?
- Yes, much like kids, pups also lose their baby teeth.
- When do puppy teeth fall out?
- Most puppies start losing teeth at around 3–4 months old, and the process usually finishes by 6–7 months of age.
- What age do puppies lose their teeth?
- By 6 months, most puppies will have grown adult teeth in place of all their baby teeth.
This teething stage can be uncomfortable, which is why you’ll notice increased chewing, biting, and even drooling. Best bite roll for dogs in Australia
Common Signs of Teething Dogs
If you’re not sure whether your pup has entered the teething stage, here are some common signs:
- Excessive chewing on shoes, furniture, or hands
- Drooling more than usual
- Red or swollen gums
- Whining or mild irritability
- Small baby teeth found on the floor or in toys
- Preference for cold surfaces or chew toys
Recognising these signs early allows you to provide comfort and redirect their chewing habits before it becomes a bigger problem. Professional dog training Sydney
Best Helpful Tips for a Teething Puppy to Reduce Chewing Problems
1. Provide Safe Chew Toys
The most important tip is to give your puppy something safe to chew on. Durable chew toys, rubber bones, or specially designed puppy teething toys help satisfy the urge to chew while protecting your furniture. Look for vet-approved options that are gentle on gums but strong enough to last.
2. Offer Cold or Frozen Treats
Cold helps numb the pain of sore gums. You can freeze a wet washcloth, chill a rubber toy, or offer frozen puppy treats. The cooling sensation eases discomfort and keeps your puppy entertained.
3. Use Puppy Teething Rings
Similar to baby teething rings, some pet stores sell puppy-safe versions. These can be chilled in the fridge and given to your dog for comfort.
4. Redirect Chewing Behaviour
If your puppy grabs your shoes or hands, calmly redirect them to an appropriate toy. Avoid yelling or punishment — instead, use consistent redirection so your pup learns what is acceptable to chew.
5. Keep Your Home Puppy-Proof
Teething dogs are curious chewers. Keep shoes, cords, and valuables out of reach. Puppy-proofing your home will save you stress and protect your furry friend from ingesting something dangerous.
6. Introduce Chew-Friendly Training
Teething is a perfect time to start obedience training. Teach basic commands like “leave it” or “drop it” to help control chewing behaviour. Using positive reinforcement strengthens the bond with your puppy while preventing bad habits.
7. Soothe Gums with Carrots or Ice Cubes
Many veterinarians recommend giving chilled carrots (cut into safe, bite-sized pieces) or ice cubes to puppies. These natural remedies soothe gum pain and provide a healthy snack.
8. Maintain Oral Hygiene Early
Even though puppies have baby teeth, it’s important to introduce gentle brushing. This builds familiarity with dental care, making it easier when their adult teeth come in. Learning do puppies lose their teeth also highlights why starting oral care early prevents future dental problems.
9. Exercise and Mental Stimulation
Sometimes puppies chew out of boredom, not just teething pain. Regular walks, play sessions, and puzzle toys provide mental and physical stimulation, reducing destructive chewing.
10. Stay Patient and Consistent
Teething is temporary but challenging. Remember, by around 6 months, your puppy will have their full set of adult teeth. Patience, consistency, and following these helpful tips will make it easier for you and your pet to travel together.
When to Call Your Vet
Most teething issues are normal, but sometimes problems arise. Contact your vet if you notice:
- Baby teeth not falling out on time (retained teeth)
- Severe swelling or bleeding gums
- Persistent bad breath
- Difficulty eating or excessive drooling
Your vet may need to remove retained teeth or check for infections, ensuring healthy oral development.
Conclusion
Teething is a natural stage every puppy goes through, but it doesn’t have to mean destroyed shoes or endless frustration. By understanding when does teething start for puppies, do dogs lose their baby teeth, and the overall process of teething dogs, you can manage it with confidence. With these best helpful tips for a teething puppy, you’ll reduce chewing problems, protect your home, and support your puppy’s growth into a happy, well-trained adult dog.
FAQs:
1. How many teeth do dogs get?
Puppies start with 28 baby teeth and, as they grow, they develop 42 permanent adult teeth.
2. Do puppies lose their teeth?
Yes. Puppies lose their baby teeth between 3 to 6 months of age, as their permanent teeth come in.
3. When do puppy teeth fall out?
Puppy teeth usually start falling out around 12–16 weeks and the process is complete by about 6 months old.
4. What age do puppies lose their teeth?
Most puppies lose all their baby teeth by 6–7 months of age, though smaller breeds may take a little longer.
5. Do dogs have baby teeth?
Yes, just like humans, dogs have baby teeth (also called deciduous teeth). These teeth are sharper and smaller than adult teeth.