Puppy Teething Timeline: Week-by-Week Guide
Teething is one of the most memorable parts of puppyhood, for owners as much as for puppies. The drool, the chewing, the tiny teeth on the carpet and the sharp little bites all fit into a timeline that is fairly predictable. Knowing it helps you plan and respond calmly.
The timeline
Birth to two weeks
Puppies are born toothless. They nurse from their mother and rely on her for everything.
Two to four weeks: baby teeth appear
The first baby teeth, or deciduous teeth, start to emerge at around two to four weeks. The incisors come first, followed by canines and then premolars. By around eight weeks, puppies typically have a full set of 28 baby teeth. Mothers may begin weaning as the teeth become sharper.
Eight to twelve weeks: sharp teeth, lots of nipping
Baby teeth are small and razor-sharp. Puppies use them during play, which is why they bite so much. Bite inhibition is learned during this time. See our guide to why puppies bite so much.
Three to four months: baby teeth begin to fall out
The incisors are usually the first to go, at around twelve to sixteen weeks. You might find tiny teeth on the floor, but many puppies swallow them, which is harmless.
Four to six months: canines and premolars
The canines, or fangs, are replaced at around four to six months, followed by the premolars. This is when teething is usually at its peak. Gums may be red and sore, and chewing is intense.
Six to seven months: molars and completion
The adult molars emerge, which have no baby predecessors. By around seven months, most puppies have all 42 adult teeth.
Signs of teething
- Increased chewing and mouthing
- Drooling
- Red, swollen gums
- Small spots of blood on toys or in the water bowl
- Bad breath
- Reduced appetite or pickiness with hard food
- Whining or irritability
Some puppies sail through, while others struggle. Individuals vary.
Retained baby teeth
Sometimes a baby tooth does not fall out when the adult tooth comes through. This is called a retained deciduous tooth. It is more common in small breeds, especially the canines. Retained teeth can trap food and cause crowding or gum disease. If you see a double tooth after about six to seven months, ask your vet, since removal may be advised, often during spay or neuter surgery.
What helps
- Provide a variety of safe chew toys. See our guide to the best chew toys for puppies.
- Offer cold items, such as frozen washcloths or rubber toys.
- Supervise chewing, and remove damaged toys.
- Keep valuable items out of reach.
- Redirect to appropriate toys, and praise.
Our guide to soothing a teething puppy goes into more detail.
When to call the vet
- Baby teeth are retained after seven months
- Gums are very swollen, pus-filled or foul smelling
- Bleeding is heavy or persistent
- Your puppy refuses to eat for more than a day
- A permanent tooth looks broken
- Your puppy seems in significant pain
Protecting adult teeth
Start dental care now. Get your puppy used to having its mouth touched, introduce a toothbrush and use appropriate chews. See our guides to dental disease in dogs and brushing a dog's teeth.
The takeaway
Teething is temporary but important. Understand the stages, provide safe outlets and keep an eye out for problems, and your puppy will emerge with a healthy set of adult teeth.
Frequently asked questions
How many teeth do puppies have?
Puppies have 28 baby teeth, and adult dogs have 42 permanent teeth.
When do puppies start teething?
Baby teeth appear at around two to four weeks. The teething stage when they are replaced begins at about three to four months.
Is it normal for a puppy's gums to bleed?
A little blood when teeth fall out is normal. Persistent or heavy bleeding needs a vet check.
When should I worry about retained baby teeth?
If a baby tooth is still present when the adult tooth has come in beside it, usually after six to seven months, ask your vet.