One of the milestones in a puppy’s life is losing their baby teeth. This process is similar to humans, and it’s essential to understand when puppies lose their baby teeth and what to expect.

Typically, all mammals go through teething, and puppies are no exception. As uncomfortable as the process is, it is a rite of passage that they must go through. To fit in as a member of the Canidae family, where 70% of their meal comes from devouring flesh, puppies must lose their baby teeth. Now the question is, when?

With the help of dental development of dogs research from the MSD manual and AAHA dental care guidelines for dogs and cats, we will help you understand what teething is when it happens and what to expect.

So, When Do Puppies Lose Their Baby Teeth?

Puppies will start to lose their front incisors around three months old. The canines usually fall out around four to five months. By the time they are six months old, the molars and premolars should have fallen out, and the adult teeth should be growing in. It’s important to note that not all puppies will follow this timeline strictly.

Some may lose their teeth a little earlier or later than the average.

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Teething is the process of growing or cutting milk teeth. During the teething process, puppies may experience discomfort and chew on things to relieve it. It’s essential to provide appropriate chew toys to prevent them from damaging your belongings or hurting themselves.

During teething, you may wonder how many teeth your dog should have. Dogs of any breed and size have 42 teeth except for the Chow Chow, which has 44. However, retained teeth can lead to overcrowding and misalignment of teeth in a dog’s mouth.

In such cases, you can request orthodontics for dogs to align their teeth and to improve the quality of their lives.

Understanding Puppy Teeth Development

Inside of a puppy mouth where an adult tooth is pushing aside a baby tooth that isn't falling out

Puppy tooth development is a necessary process that every dog owner should be aware of. Understanding when puppies lose their baby teeth and when they grow back can help you identify potential issues and ensure your puppy’s teeth are healthy and robust.

Primary Teeth Growth (Deciduous)

Puppies are born without teeth, but their primary teeth, also known as baby teeth, start to come in at around 3-4 weeks of age. By the time they are eight weeks old, most puppies will have a complete set of 28 baby teeth. These teeth are smaller and whiter than adult teeth, and they are not as strong.

This puppy teeth stage coincides with weaning, and it is vital to ensure your puppy gets proper nutrition to support healthy teeth and bone growth. You can also introduce your puppy to dental care using a soft-bristled toothbrush and toothpaste designed for puppies.

Permanent Teeth Growth (Adult Teeth)

Around 3-4 months of age, puppies will start to lose their baby teeth, and their permanent teeth will begin to come in. This process can take several months to complete, and by the time your puppy is 6-7 months old, they should have a complete set of 42 adult teeth and 44 for Chow Chow.

It is essential to monitor your puppy’s teeth during this time to ensure that the baby teeth are falling out properly and the adult teeth are coming in correctly. If you notice any issues, such as retained baby teeth or misaligned adult teeth, you should consult with your veterinarian.

Proper dental care is essential during this stage to ensure that your puppy’s adult teeth are healthy and strong.

Signs Your Puppy Is Losing Their Teeth

As puppies grow, they will begin to lose their baby teeth to make way for their adult teeth. This process is called teething, and it can be a challenging time for both puppies and their owners. Here are some signs that your puppy is losing their teeth:

Chewing: Puppies will instinctively chew on things to relieve teething discomfort. If you notice your puppy is chewing on everything in sight, it could be a sign that they are losing their baby teeth.
Bleeding Gums: As the baby teeth become loose, the gums may bleed slightly. This is normal and should stop once the adult teeth have fully emerged.
Drooling: Teething can cause excessive drooling in puppies. You may notice your puppy drooling more than usual or leaving wet spots on the floor.
Loss of Appetite: Some puppies may experience a loss of appetite during teething. This is usually temporary and should improve once the adult teeth fully emerge.
Behavior Changes: Teething can be uncomfortable for puppies, and they may become irritable or restless. They may also be more prone to biting or nipping during this time.
Blood on Chew Toys: Occasionally, you might see a small amount of blood on your puppy’s chew toys or items they’ve been chewing. This can occur when the incoming adult teeth push the baby teeth out.
Bad Breath: Due to increased drool and changes in their mouth, your puppy’s breath may temporarily become unpleasant during teething. Regular dental care can help alleviate this issue.

If you notice any of these signs, you should provide your puppy with appropriate chew toys and avoid giving them anything too strenuous that could damage their teeth.

Puppy teeth stages chart

The puppy teeth stages chart shows the different stages of puppy teeth development and when they are expected to fall out. Below is an example

Birth to two weeks No teeth Two to four weeks Milk teeth start to erupt Five to eight weeks All 28 deciduous teeth have erupted Twelve to sixteen weeks Adult teeth start to come in Six months old All 42 adult teeth should be visible

Problems to Watch For

Puppy teething is a natural process, but it can also lead to various problems. Here are some issues to watch for:

Retained Teeth

Sometimes, a puppy’s baby teeth do not fall out as they should, leading to retained baby teeth. This can cause problems such as gum irritation, bad breath, and even infection. If your puppy’s baby teeth are not falling out independently, you should consult a veterinarian.

Misaligned Teeth

Misaligned teeth can lead to dental problems that can cause pain and discomfort for puppies. In some cases, they can also lead to problems with eating and drinking. It is crucial to keep an eye on your puppy’s teeth as they grow to ensure they are appropriately aligned.

Overcrowded mouth (small dogs)

Small and short-nosed dogs are more prone to overcrowded mouths, which can cause problems with their teeth. Overcrowding can lead to misaligned teeth, retained baby teeth, and dental issues.

Eating Problems

Sore gums can make it challenging for puppies to eat. Consider softening their food or switching to wet food during this period to make it easier for them to consume.

Oral Infections

Puppies may be more susceptible to oral infections during teething. It’s crucial to maintain good dental hygiene by brushing their teeth and gums regularly. If you notice signs of infection (e.g., swelling, pus, foul odor), consult your veterinarian.

Swallowing Teeth

Puppies may swallow their baby teeth while they fall out. This is generally not harmful, as the teeth are small and usually pass through the digestive system.

How to Care for Your Puppy’s Teeth

Daily Brushing

Brushing your puppy’s teeth daily is the best way to prevent dental problems. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and dog toothpaste to clean their teeth and gums gently.

Start by getting your puppy used to the toothbrush by letting them smell and lick it. Then, gradually introduce toothpaste and brushing in small, circular motions. Be sure to reward your puppy with praise and treats for good behavior.

Healthy Diet

A healthy diet is crucial for your puppy’s dental health. Feed them high-quality dog food that is rich in nutrients and low in sugar.

Avoid giving them table scraps or human food, leading to tooth decay and other health problems. Provide your puppy plenty of fresh water to keep their mouth hydrated and free from harmful bacteria.

Regular Vet Check-ups

Regular check-ups with your vet are essential for your puppy’s dental health. Your vet can examine your puppy’s teeth and gums for signs of dental problems, such as tartar buildup or gum disease. They can also provide professional cleaning and treatment if necessary. Be sure to schedule regular appointments with your vet and follow their recommendations for dental care.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

At what age do puppies start losing their baby teeth?

Puppies usually start losing their baby teeth around three to four months of age. This process can continue until the puppy is about six months old.

What are the symptoms of puppies losing their teeth?

Puppies may experience some discomfort and pain while their teeth are falling out. They may also drool more than usual, chew on objects more frequently, and have a decreased appetite.

How do you know when your puppy’s teeth are falling out?

Owners can check their puppy’s mouth for loose teeth or missing teeth. Puppies may also exhibit some of the above-mentioned symptoms, such as drooling and chewing more frequently.

Which teeth do puppies lose first?

Puppies usually lose their incisors first, followed by their canine teeth and premolars. The molars are generally the last to fall out.

Do puppies stop biting after teething?

Puppies may continue to bite and chew on objects even after completing teething. Owners must provide appropriate chew toys and training to discourage biting and promote good behavior.

Final Thoughts

Puppies typically start losing their baby teeth around 3-4 months and have all their adult teeth by 6-8 months. It is essential to understand how to monitor their teeth during this time and provide appropriate chew toys to help with the teething process.

If a puppy appears to be losing teeth at an abnormal rate or is experiencing excessive bleeding or pain, it is essential to consult with a veterinarian. Additionally, regular dental check-ups and cleanings can help maintain good oral health for a puppy.

Meet Your Experts

Tamsin De La Harpe

Author

Tamsin de la Harpe has nearly two decades of experience with dogs in rescue, training, and behavior modification with fearful and aggressive dogs. She has worked closely with veterinarians and various kennels, building up extensive medical knowledge and an understanding of canine health and physiology. She also spent two years in the animal sciences as a canine nutrition researcher, focusing on longevity and holistic healthcare for our four-legged companions. Tamsin currently keeps a busy homestead with an assortment of rescue dogs and three Bullmastiffs.