🐶 Puppy Teething Timeline: Stages, Teeth Count, Common Issues & Care Tips

Baby shark in the house?

Puppy teething is a natural—and sometimes challenging—part of your dog’s early development.

As their tiny milk teeth erupt and fall out, understanding each stage of your puppy’s dental journey can help you support them through discomfort and keep their oral health on track.

In this blog, we’ll cover the puppy teething timeline, how many teeth puppies have, common teething problems, and practical ways to ease their discomfort. Let’s sink our teeth in! (Sorry I couldn’t help it!)

🦴 Puppy Teething Stages: A Complete Timeline

1. Neonatal Stage (0–3 Weeks)

At birth, puppies have no visible teeth. They rely on their mother’s milk and are entirely toothless.

2. Deciduous Teeth (Milk Teeth): 3–6 Weeks

At around 3 weeks, puppies begin to develop their milk teeth—also known as deciduous or baby teeth. These are sharp and small.

• By 6–8 weeks, they will have 28 baby teeth:

• 12 incisors

• 4 canines

• 12 premolars

Important: Most puppies are rehomed around 8 weeks old, so new pet owners often meet their pup when they already have a full set of baby teeth.

3. Teething & Tooth Loss: 12–16 Weeks

At about 12 weeks, puppies start to lose their baby teeth to make room for permanent adult teeth.

You may notice:

• Tiny teeth on the floor or in toys

• Bleeding gums

• Excessive chewing

This process usually continues until 6 months of age.

4. Adult Teeth: 6–7 Months

By the time a puppy is 6 to 7 months old, they should have all of their 42 permanent adult teeth:

• 12 incisors

• 4 canines

• 16 premolars

• 10 molars

🐾 Common Puppy Teething Problems

During this stage, it’s normal for puppies to chew excessively or appear uncomfortable. However, there are a few puppy teething issues to watch out for:

1. Retained Baby Teeth

Sometimes a baby tooth doesn’t fall out before the adult tooth comes in. This is most common with canine teeth.

🚨 If left untreated, retained teeth can cause:

• Overcrowding

• Misalignment

• Gum infections

A vet may recommend extraction if the tooth doesn’t fall out naturally. However often time and the use of a tennis ball can help here… another blog to follow!

2. Inflamed Gums

Swollen or red gums can cause pain and reluctance to eat. Gentle brushing or teething toys can help, but consult your vet if swelling persists.

3. Bleeding or Bad Breath

A little bleeding is normal, but foul-smelling breath or excessive blood can be a sign of infection or dental disease.

🛟 How to Help a Teething Puppy: Soothing Tips for Puppy Parents

Teething can be tough, but here are some puppy teething remedies to ease their discomfort and save your shoes and fingers in the process!

🧊 1. Offer Frozen Treats

Frozen carrots, ice cubes, or cold chew toys can numb sore gums and reduce inflammation.

🧸 2. Provide Safe Chew Toys

Choose puppy-specific teething toys made from soft, non-toxic rubber. Look for brands approved by vets or labeled as dental-safe. I am personal fan of natural chew treats like Beef Pizzle.

🪥 3. Start Brushing Early

Introduce your puppy to tooth brushing with a finger brush and dog-safe toothpaste. Early habits prevent plaque and get them comfortable with oral care.

👩‍⚕️ 4. Schedule a Vet Check

Your vet can monitor dental development and catch retained teeth or abnormalities before they become a problem.

🔍 Puppy Teething FAQs

When do puppies start teething?

Around 3 weeks old, with noticeable discomfort beginning at 12 weeks.

How long does teething last in puppies?

From around 3 weeks to 6–7 months of age.

What age should a puppy have all adult teeth?

By 6 to 7 months, your puppy should have 42 adult teeth.

🐕 Final Thoughts: Caring for Your Puppy’s Teeth

Understanding the puppy teething stages helps ensure a smoother journey—for both you and your puppy. With patience, the right toys and treats, you’ll help your dog grow into a happy, healthy adult with a sparkling set of pearly whites!

✅ Quick Recap:

• Puppies have 28 baby teeth and 42 adult teeth.

• Teething starts at 3 weeks and ends around 6 months.

• Watch for retained teeth, swelling, or chewing issues.

• Use chew toys, brushing, and frozen treats to ease discomfort.