Puppy teething is an uncomfortable process as those tiny teeth erupt. Teething generally begins around 2-3 weeks of age and lasts until puppies are about 6-8 months old, as their 28 deciduous teeth are replaced by 42 adult teeth. While there isn’t a single "worst week," the periods of most intense teething are when the incisors, canines, and molars emerge.
When Does Puppy Teething Start?
Puppies have two sets of teeth in their lives. The first set is 28 deciduous teeth that erupt at 6 to 8 weeks of age. By the time puppies reach 6 to 7 months old, those teeth are replaced by 42 adult teeth.
What are the Signs of Puppy Teething?
- Increased chewing: Puppies will chew on anything to relieve discomfort.
- Red and swollen gums: The gums may appear inflamed where teeth are erupting.
- Drooling: Excessive drooling is common during teething.
- Irritability: Teething can make puppies fussy and restless.
- Loss of appetite: Sore gums can make eating painful.
- Mild diarrhea: Some puppies experience digestive upset.
What is the Timeline for Puppy Teething?
| Teething Stage | Age of Puppy |
|---|---|
| Incisors erupt | 2-5 months |
| Canine teeth erupt | 5-6 months |
| Premolars and molars | 4-7 months |
How Can I Help My Teething Puppy?
- Provide safe chew toys: Offer a variety of textures to soothe sore gums.
- Freeze toys: Cold can help numb the pain.
- Gentle gum massage: Use your finger to gently massage the gums.
- Monitor for complications: Contact your vet if you notice excessive bleeding, severe pain, or reluctance to eat.
What Happens if Puppy Teeth Don’t Fall Out?
Sometimes, the deciduous teeth don’t fall out as the adult teeth erupt. This can cause crowding and potential dental issues. A vet might need to extract retained deciduous teeth to ensure proper alignment of the adult teeth.
Are There Any Complications With Puppy Teething?
While teething is a natural process, complications can arise. Keep an eye out for:
- Misaligned teeth: If adult teeth erupt in the wrong position, it can affect the bite.
- Infection: Open wounds in the gums can become infected.
- Dental cysts: In rare cases, cysts can form around unerupted teeth.
Teething can be a challenging time for puppies and their owners. Understanding the process and providing appropriate care can help alleviate discomfort and prevent potential complications.
Want to discover more about how to care for your puppy’s dental health?