Did you know that puppies start teething at about 2 weeks? 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’ll know what your puppy is going through and when, and you can let your vet know immediately if anything seems amiss. 

Newborn Puppies

Just like human babies, puppies are born without teeth. They don’t need them at this stage, after all—your puppy will nurse from their mother if possible, or hand-fed from a bottle if not.

2-3 Weeks of Age

Around two or three weeks of age, dogs’ first baby teeth will start coming out of the gums. The smaller front teeth, called the incisors, are usually the first ones to appear. The canine teeth will follow. These are the four long fangs. Little Fido’s premolars are the last to appear, and they come in behind the canines, near the back of your pet’s mouth. 

6 Weeks of Age

By the time your puppy is about six weeks old, your puppy will have 28 baby teeth, which are known medically as the deciduous teeth and are often referred to as the “milk teeth.” Around this time, your pup will be in the process of getting weaned off of his mother’s milk or formula, and will begin eating solid puppy food. 

3-4 Months of Age

Around the 12- to 16-week mark, little Fido’s baby teeth will start falling out. The adult teeth will come in and basically push the deciduous teeth out of the way. You may occasionally see a baby tooth on the floor or by your puppy’s water or food bowls. This is normal, though most of the time your puppy will simply swallow his baby teeth.

6 Months and Older

By the time little Fido is about six months old, all 28 baby teeth will likely be gone, replaced by 42 adult teeth. Your canine pal will now have molars in addition to premolars, which are the largest teeth at the back of the mouth that help with chewing and mashing food. 

Tips

As your pet is teething, be sure to provide lots of chew toys, as well as fresh water. Puppyproofing is also a must! Ask your vet for more information. 

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