Is your puppy teething? Aside from protecting the sofa legs from your furry pal’s incessant chewing, there’s not a whole lot to do while your new pet is going through this process. Knowing the details of teething is a good idea, though. That way, you know what little Fido is going through and when, and you can let your vet know right away if something seems amiss.
Newborn Puppies
Just like human babies, puppies are born with no teeth. They simply don’t need them at this stage, after all—your puppy will nurse from their mother if they can. Puppies need to be hand-fed from a bottle if the mother isn’t available.
2-3 Weeks of Age
Around two or three weeks of age, your puppy’s first baby teeth will start coming through their 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. Your puppy’s premolars will be the last to appear. These come in behind the canines near the back of the mouth. When it’s all said and done, your puppy will have 28 baby teeth, which are known medically as the deciduous teeth and are often referred to as “milk teeth.”
6 Weeks of Age
By the time your canine buddy is about six weeks old, all 28 baby teeth will probably have come in. Around this time, little Fido will be in the process of getting weaned off of the mother’s milk or formula, and will begin eating solid puppy food.
3-4 Months of Age
Around the 12- to 16-week mark, your pet’s baby teeth will start falling out. The adult teeth come in and simply push the deciduous teeth out of the way. During this stage, you may occasionally see a baby tooth on the floor or by little Fido’s water or food bowls. Most often, though, puppies simply swallow the baby teeth as they come out, which is perfectly normal.
6 Months and Older
By the time your dog is about six months old, all 28 baby teeth will likely be gone, replaced by 42 adult teeth. Your canine companion will now have all his molars, as well as his premolars, which are the largest teeth at the back of the mouth that help with chewing and mashing food.
Do you have questions about your puppy’s teething? We’re here to help. Call your vet clinic today.