When Do Dogs Stop Teething | How To Help Your Puppy

Teething is an important part of a dog’s development that supports their dental health and oral hygiene. If you’ve just welcomed a new pup into your life, you’re likely wondering when do dogs stop teething? Understanding the process and timeline better helps you prepare for it and ensure successful tooth transition for your furry friend. In this blog post, we’ll explore all the pieces of canine teething —from start to finish—so that you can be well-equipped to handle every new stage along the way.

Definition Of Teething In Dogs

Teething is the process when puppies start to lose their deciduous (“baby”) teeth and grow in adult teeth. It usually starts when a pup is about four months old when they start to get their permanent set of molars. Generally, teething is finished when pups are six months old.

Characteristics Of Dog Teeth During Teething

During the teething process, your pup will likely be drooling and chewing on whatever they can get their paws on —including your possessions. This is completely normal because when baby teeth start to loosen, it can be quite uncomfortable. It’s important to have plenty of chew toys handy during this time since dogs may try to alleviate the pain by chewing.

Importance Of Understanding When Dogs Stop Teething

Knowing when a dog typically stops teething is important in understanding their overall health. Many health issues can arise when teeth are not properly taken care of, so it’s essential to start brushing your pup’s teeth when they’re around six months old — when the majority of teething is complete. Additionally, if you’re considering having dental work done on your pup, it’s best to wait until the teething process is finished when their adult teeth have settled in.

Learn About Puppy Teeth

Development Of Puppy Teeth

While it is important to understand when do dogs stop teething, it’s just as crucial to know when the process typically starts. Generally, pups start getting their deciduous teeth when they’re around 3-4  weeks old and the teething process is complete when they turn six months old when their permanent adult teeth are in place.

Timeline Of Puppy Teeth Eruption

To help you better understand when to expect when your pup’s teeth start and finish teething, here is a timeline of when puppy teeth typically erupt:

• 3 weeks old: deciduous (“baby”) incisors
• 4 weeks old: deciduous canines
• 6weeks old: deciduous premolars
• 8 weeks old: deciduous molars
• 4 months old: permanent incisors
• 5 months old: permanent canines
• 6 months old: permanent premolars and molars, when the teething process is complete.

Characteristics Of Puppy Teeth

During the teething process, you may notice some changes in your pup’s teeth. Here are a few characteristics to look out for when puppies start teething:

• Loose deciduous teeth — baby teeth start to loosen when adult teeth emerge and can fall out when chewing or playing.
• Chewing more — when teeth start to become loose it can be uncomfortable, so pups may chew more than normal when teething.
• Drooling — when baby teeth are wiggly, saliva production increases which can lead to excess drooling.

Learn About Adult Dog Teeth

An adult dog typically has 42 teeth, with 20 on the top jaw and 22 on the bottom. Puppies have 28 temporary teeth that may not grow into adulthood. Some dogs may not reach the full 42 teeth due to entrapment of teeth by bone or gum tissue. These teeth are replaced from the age of six to eight months with 42 permanent teeth.

What Are The Signs Of Teething In Dogs?

Chewing on Everything

One of the most common signs that your dog is teething is excessive chewing. Teething puppies will go through a stage where they feel an uncomfortable sensation in their gums and will try to alleviate it by chewing on anything they can get their paws on. This includes furniture, shoes, toys, and even hands and feet. To help with this behavior, ensure you have plenty of safe and durable chew toys available for your teething puppy to gnaw on. This can help redirect their chewing behavior and save your belongings from being destroyed.

Frequent Drooling

Another sign of teething in dogs is excessive drooling. As the new teeth are pushing through the gums, it can cause irritation and discomfort, leading to increased drooling. You may notice your puppy leaving wet spots on their bed or toys, and you may also see them wiping their mouth more often than usual. Keep a towel nearby to wipe up any drool, and make sure your puppy has access to fresh water to help with their drooling.

Slow to Eat

If your dog is typically a good eater but suddenly starts to take longer than usual to finish their meals, it could be a sign of teething. The discomfort in their gums can make it uncomfortable for them to eat and cause them to lose interest in food. Try offering them soft or wet food during this time, as it may be easier for them to eat. As always, consult with your veterinarian if you notice a significant decrease in appetite or weight loss.

Bleeding, Red, or Swollen Gums

One of the most noticeable signs of teething in dogs is bleeding, red, or swollen gums. As the new teeth push through the gums, they can cause some irritation and inflammation, leading to changes in appearance and color. You may also see small spots of blood on your puppy’s toys or food bowls. If you notice excessive bleeding or severe swelling, it is crucial to consult with your veterinarian as this could be a sign of a more serious issue.

Whining A Lot

As with human babies, teething can be an uncomfortable and painful process for puppies. This discomfort may lead to increased whining or vocalization as they try to express their discomfort. If your puppy seems to be crying more than usual, it could be a sign that they are going through the teething stage. Make sure to offer them plenty of love and comfort during this time to help alleviate their discomfort. You can also try giving them a frozen washcloth or chilled teething toy to soothe their gums.

Visible Lost Teeth

Eventually, when your puppy’s adult teeth start to come through, you may notice some of their baby teeth falling out. This is entirely normal and is a sign that the teething process is progressing as it should. You may find little teeth around the house or see them fall out while playing with your puppy. If you notice excessive bleeding or difficulty eating due to missing teeth consult with your veterinarian to ensure there are no underlying issues.

When Do Dogs Stop Teething?

Puppies typically have all their adult teeth by 6-7 months of age. Teething usually lasts for 4-5 months. During this time, both the puppy and guardian experience discomfort. Puppies chew on anything they can get their teeth into in an attempt to relieve the pain. Guardians, on the other hand, are faced with destroyed furniture and shoes.

Benefits of Helping your Dog Through the Teething Process

Puppy teething rings can provide beneficial outcomes for both the owner and pup during training. They help ensure proper dental hygiene. The rings can support good behavior and discourage destructive habits. Additionally, these toys are beneficial in strengthening the bond between pet and owner.

The benefits of helping your dog through the teething process extend beyond just dental hygiene and behavioral habits. Training your pup during this crucial stage can also help with socialization, mental stimulation, and overall health.

Socialization is a critical aspect of a puppy’s development. It involves introducing them to new people, animals, and environments in a positive and controlled manner. During the teething stage, puppies are more likely to be curious and eager to explore their surroundings. This is the perfect time to expose them to new experiences and help them become comfortable with various stimuli.

Furthermore, training your puppy during the teething process can also provide mental stimulation. Chewing on a teething ring requires problem-solving skills and patience from your pup. This helps keep their minds active and engaged, preventing boredom and potential destructive behaviors.

How to Help Your Dog Through the Teething Stage?

Now that you understand the importance of helping your dog through the teething process, let’s explore ways to make it more successful.

First and foremost, you should provide your pup with plenty of chew toys designed specifically for puppies. These toys are usually made with softer materials like rubber or nylon that help soothe their gums while promoting proper tooth wear. You can also provide other types of chew toys, such as rawhide bones or antlers, for puppies that prefer those surfaces over softer ones.

Next, it’s important to keep an eye on your pup during the teething process and take away any objects that they might try to chew on that aren’t made for their age. This way, you can minimize any potential damage to your belongings as well as protect them from any harm that might come from chewing on the wrong things.

Finally, it’s important to stay patient and understanding during this period. Puppies usually go through a lot of discomfort due to swollen gums and sore teeth so try to keep distractions available that will help them stay distracted and keep their mind off the pain.

Does Dog Stop Teething Affect Health?

When teething is complete when adult teeth come in, it is important to provide continued dental care and hygiene when necessary. This helps ensure your pup’s teeth stay strong and healthy so they can enjoy their food without discomfort when eating. Proper dental care also helps prevent tooth decay when adult teeth are in place when the teething process has finished.

When to Take Your Dog for a Checkup During the Teething Stage?

Puppies’ retained deciduous teeth may lead to secondary issues when adult teeth develop. Prompt removal is necessary to address the issue. If puppies still have baby teeth after 6-7 months, contact a vet for further advice and corrections. It is recommended to schedule a visit to the veterinarian in the first few months of your puppy’s life, even before they start teething. This will allow the veterinarian to establish a baseline for your dog’s overall health and development. The vet can also provide recommendations for proper nutrition and training during this crucial time.

Tips to Make Sure Your Dog is Healthy Throughout Teething

Finally, here are some tips to make sure your pup is healthy throughout the teething process.

• Offer chew toys as a way to reduce pressure on the gums and offer teething pain relief. Look for pet supplies stores and websites offering a variety of chew toys, some of which can be chilled in the refrigerator or freezer. Alternately, wet and freeze dishcloths to create chewable toys. Ensure chosen toys do not have loose parts that could be swallowed.
• Switching to soft food can help reduce gums sensitivity when teething. If your pet struggles to eat dry food or reduces amount eaten, consider offering soft food or moisten dry food.
• Visit your veterinarian to ensure proper dental health for your pet. Have them check for retained baby teeth that may affect the alignment of permanent teeth. Your vet can then remove these teeth and examine the mouth and jaw for any other issues.

Conclusion: When Do Dogs Stop Teething

The teething process when puppies start to grow their adult teeth is an important one when it comes to the overall health and wellbeing of your pup. By knowing when dogs stop teething when they reach six months old, you can provide them with proper dental care and hygiene when necessary for a healthy smile for years to come.   

You might be interested: why do dogs scratch their beds

FAQ: Dogs Stop Teething

Can you give dogs ice cubes for teething?

Puppy teething can be a trying experience. Providing special blessings during this period can help. Ice cubes, however, should not be given to pups due to potential dental trauma and swallowing risks.

What age is dog teething the worst?

At 3-4 months, a puppy’s teeth start to fall out. This makes room for 42 adult teeth, which is 10 more than humans have. This process can be painful for the pup, as their gums become sore.

Do dogs teeth hurt when they fall out?

Puppies’ mouths may bleed while they are teething, due to the loss of baby teeth or sensitivity in their gums. Teething is a natural process for puppies, and some associated pain is unavoidable.

What age is dog teething the worst?

At 3-to-4-months, puppies start to lose their puppy teeth to accommodate 42 adult teeth. This process is uncomfortable for the pup as their gums become sore. Puppies have 10 more teeth than humans.

Are dogs still teething at 2 years old?

Dogs grow two sets of teeth – initial milk set and later permanent set. Milk teeth act as a guide for the permanent set. Permanent teeth may take up to 2 years to fully form. Teething behaviours are normal until 2 years of age.

Can a dog still be teething at 10 months?

Puppies typically start to get their adult teeth in between 6-8 months old. Teething can last up to 12 months for some puppies. There is no exact teething timeline for puppies.

Does ice help puppy teething?

Providing ice cubes to puppies during teething can help soothe aching gums. However, it is important to only give small amounts at any given time. Cold temperatures may prove too much for their fragile bodies, so caution should always be exercised.

Do dogs teeth again at 9 months?

Puppy teething typically begins at six to eight months of age. Teething may continue until the pup is nine to twelve months old. Adult teeth fully replace puppy teeth by around 12 months old.

Do dogs misbehave when teething?

At four months, puppies start to lose their baby teeth and grow in their adult teeth. This process can be accompanied by poor temper, drooling, and a penchant for putting things in their mouth.

Are dogs more aggressive when teething?

Puppies may engage in biting and chewing during teething, similar to human babies. To redirect this behavior, provide appropriate chewable items that are safe for the puppy.

Are frozen carrots good for teething puppies?

Carrots make great teething aids for puppies when cut into tiny chunks. Freeze the carrot chunks before giving to puppies; this will provide a soothing effect for their sore gums and teeth. Ensure pieces are small enough so they don’t become a choking hazard.

What foods for teething puppies?

For a more appealing mealtime, mix regular and premium dry food with a premium canned puppy food. To help during this sensitive period, try moist food options. Soak dry food in warm water for 10-15 minutes before serving.

When do adult teeth typically finish growing in dogs?

Dogs do not have baby molars. At 12 weeks, deciduous teeth start to fall out and permanent teeth begin to grow in.  By 6 months of age, all permanent teeth have grown in and all deciduous teeth have fallen out.