Understanding the Duration of Teething in Puppies
Teething is a natural developmental phase all puppies go through as they grow from tiny newborns into playful youngsters with a full set of adult teeth. Like human infants, puppies are born without teeth, but their dental progression occurs quickly within the first few months. Here's a comprehensive guide to understanding how long teething lasts in puppies and how to care for your furry friend during this stage.
Stages of Puppy Teething
- 2 to 4 weeks: At this stage, puppies begin developing their first set of deciduous (baby) teeth. These are sharp and needle-like, aiding in grasping food and exploration.
- 6 to 8 weeks: Most puppies now have their full set of 28 baby teeth. This is also around the time they begin the weaning process and start trying solids.
- 12 to 16 weeks: Teething intensifies. Baby teeth begin to fall out, making way for adult teeth. Owners may notice discomfort and a rise in chewing behavior.
- By 6 to 7 months: Most puppies have lost all baby teeth and now possess their full set of 42 adult teeth.
Common Signs of Puppy Teething
- Increased chewing — to relieve gum soreness.
- Drooling — often more than usual.
- Bad breath — due to gum inflammation.
- Loss of appetite — from oral discomfort.
- Minor gum bleeding — and possibly finding small teeth.
- Nippy behavior — more mouthing and biting playfully.
How Long Does Puppy Teething Last?
The teething process begins as early as 3 weeks of age and continues until around 6 to 7 months of age. During this time, puppies transition from 28 deciduous teeth to 42 permanent ones. The most intense teething period, marked by excessive chewing and discomfort, typically occurs between 12 and 16 weeks but can vary with breed and individual development.
Relieving Teething Discomfort
To alleviate your puppy’s teething pain, provide a variety of safe chew toys. Avoid overly hard items such as antlers or bones, which may cause dental fractures. Suitable options include:
- Soft rubber toys
- Freezable chew toys — for numbing sore gums
- Cold carrots — provide relief and are digestible
- Edible puppy chews — formulated for young dogs
Preventing Unwanted Chewing
Teething puppies will chew just about anything, so it's crucial to puppy-proof your environment and redirect their chewing to acceptable items:
- Remove hazards like shoes, cords, and furniture edges.
- Offer chew toys proactively to avoid destructive behavior.
- Teach polite mouth behavior using redirection and rewards.
- Use correction techniques like a loud “OW” to discourage biting.
Dental Hygiene During and After Teething
Encourage good dental habits from a young age. Start by gently handling your puppy’s mouth daily so they become comfortable with tooth brushing:
- Use a dog-safe toothbrush and toothpaste.
- Avoid human toothpaste — it can be harmful to pets.
- Your vet can suggest dental chews and techniques.
Monitoring for Dental Issues
Most puppies complete teething uneventfully, but some issues may arise:
- Retained baby teeth beyond 7 months — especially in small or short-nosed breeds.
- Severe malocclusion — misaligned teeth causing discomfort.
- Chronic bad breath, drooling, redness, or eating difficulty.
If any of these issues persist, schedule a checkup with your veterinarian. Sometimes, retained teeth may require extraction, often performed during spaying or neutering procedures.
Healthy Chewing Habits Beyond Teething
Chewing is a lifelong behavior in dogs, not just a symptom of teething. Ensure ongoing access to appropriate chew toys and provide adequate mental and physical stimulation to prevent destructive habits. Regular dental checkups will help your puppy maintain a healthy mouth well into adulthood.
