Puppy Teething Timeline and Relief Tips: Complete Guide for New Dog Owners

Bringing home a new puppy is one of life’s greatest joys—until those tiny teeth start nipping at everything in sight! 🐾
Teething is a completely natural phase, but it can be uncomfortable for your pup (and sometimes for your furniture).

In this guide, we’ll walk you through the puppy teething timeline, from the first tiny teeth to the moment your furry friend finally stops teething. You’ll also learn how to spot teething symptoms, soothe sore gums, and choose the best teething toys.


What Is Puppy Teething?

Puppy teething refers to the period when your puppy’s baby teeth fall out and are replaced by permanent adult teeth. Just like human babies, puppies go through discomfort and behavioral changes during this stage.

How Many Teeth Do Puppies Have?

Puppies are born without teeth. By about 3 to 6 weeks old, they develop 28 baby teeth, often called “milk teeth” or “deciduous teeth.”
When they reach adulthood, most dogs will have 42 permanent teeth — including molars and premolars.

Why Do Puppies Teethe?

Teething helps prepare your puppy for a lifetime of chewing and eating solid food. However, the process can cause sore gums and an irresistible urge to chew anything within reach.


Puppy Teething Timeline (Age Chart & Stages)

Puppy teething happens in several clear stages. Understanding these will help you support your pup at every age.

Puppy Age Stage What’s Happening
0–3 Weeks Stage 1 No teeth yet; nursing only.
3–6 Weeks Stage 2 Baby teeth begin to erupt (incisors and canines).
6–12 Weeks Stage 3 All 28 baby teeth are in place. Chewing behavior increases.
12–16 Weeks Stage 4 Baby teeth begin falling out as adult teeth emerge.
4–6 Months Stage 5 Adult teeth continue coming in. Sore gums, heavy chewing.
6–7 Months Stage 6 All 42 adult teeth have erupted. Teething ends.

When Do Puppies Start Teething?

Most puppies start teething at around 3 weeks old, but owners usually notice symptoms between 12–16 weeks, when baby teeth begin to fall out.

When Do Puppies Stop Teething?

Teething typically ends by 6 to 7 months of age. Larger breeds often finish earlier than smaller ones, but every pup is unique.


Signs and Symptoms of a Teething Puppy

Every puppy shows teething signs differently, but these are the most common:

Common Puppy Teething Symptoms

  • Chewing everything — furniture, toys, shoes, or even your hands.

  • Drooling more than usual due to gum irritation.

  • Red, swollen gums that may occasionally bleed.

  • Tiny teeth found on the floor or in toys (a normal sign).

  • Mild appetite changes or preference for soft food.

  • Whining or irritability, especially when chewing hard surfaces.

Puppy Bad Breath from Teething — Is It Normal?

Yes! Mild bad breath during teething is normal. As baby teeth loosen, bacteria can build up temporarily around the gums. Regular cleaning and teething-safe chews can help.

Teething vs. Other Dental Issues

If your puppy’s gums are bleeding excessively, or if you notice persistent swelling, pus, or refusal to eat, consult your vet. These could indicate infection, not normal teething.


How Long Does Puppy Teething Last?

The teething process usually lasts around 3 to 5 months.

Factors That Affect Teething Duration

  • Breed size: Small breeds may take longer than large breeds.

  • Diet quality: Proper nutrition supports healthy tooth development.

  • Genetics: Some dogs naturally teethe earlier or later.

If your puppy is over 7 months old and still losing teeth, contact your vet for a dental exam.


How to Help a Teething Puppy (Relief Tips & Remedies)

The good news? You can ease your puppy’s discomfort with a few simple tricks.

Home Remedies for Teething Puppies

  • 🥕 Frozen carrots or ice cubes: Cold temperatures help reduce gum swelling.

  • 🧊 Frozen washcloths: Wet and freeze a cloth for safe chewing relief.

  • 🐶 Puppy teething toys: Soft rubber toys are perfect for soothing sore gums.

Soothing Sore Gums Safely

Avoid giving bones, antlers, or hard toys—they can crack baby teeth. Instead, choose toys made specifically for teething dogs.

Do’s and Don’ts for Teething Puppies

Do:
✔ Offer plenty of safe chew toys.
✔ Use positive reinforcement when redirecting chewing behavior.
✔ Keep dangerous objects (cords, shoes, etc.) out of reach.

Don’t:
✘ Punish your puppy for chewing—it’s instinctive.
✘ Give human pain relievers.
✘ Ignore excessive drooling or bleeding.

When to See a Vet

If your puppy’s baby teeth don’t fall out by 6 months, or you notice double rows of teeth (“shark teeth”), your vet may need to extract the extras.


Best Teething Toys for Puppies (Safe & Vet-Approved)

The right toys can make teething much easier—and save your furniture!

What Makes a Good Teething Toy?

  • Flexible, but durable material

  • Textured surfaces for gum massage

  • Non-toxic and easy to clean

  • Appropriate size for your puppy’s mouth

Top Puppy Teething Toys in 2025

  • KONG Puppy Teething Toy: Soft rubber for gentle chewing.

  • Nylabone Puppy Chew Ring: Designed for teething relief.

  • Benebone Puppy Wishbone: Safe, long-lasting chew toy.

  • PetSafe Chill Toy: Fill and freeze for cooling comfort.

DIY Teething Toys

You can make simple teething toys at home by freezing a damp rope toy or washcloth. Always supervise to prevent fraying or swallowing.

 Read our post on Best Toys for Teething Puppies in 2025 for detailed recommendations.


Common Puppy Teething Problems and How to Fix Them

1. Retained Baby Teeth

Sometimes baby teeth don’t fall out naturally, causing overcrowding. Your vet can remove them during a routine visit.

2. Bleeding Gums

Minor bleeding is normal. Offer a cold toy or frozen carrot to help soothe. If bleeding persists, consult your vet.

3. Destructive Chewing

Redirect chewing to toys instead of furniture. Try obedience training and crate time when unsupervised.

4. Biting During Play

Teach gentle play using positive reinforcement. When your puppy bites too hard, stop play briefly to show that biting ends fun.

 Learn how to manage behavior with Dog Training for Beginners: The Complete Guide.


Expert Puppy Teething Tips from Trainers and Vets

  • Start dental care early: Brush your puppy’s teeth with dog-safe toothpaste once adult teeth erupt.

  • Provide enrichment: Mental stimulation (like puzzle toys) reduces boredom chewing.

  • Feed balanced nutrition: Calcium and phosphorus are essential for healthy teeth.

  • Reward calm chewing: Reinforce positive chewing habits with treats and praise.


FAQs About Puppy Teething

Q1: Do all puppies lose their baby teeth?
Yes, all puppies lose their 28 baby teeth before their 42 adult teeth grow in.

Q2: Can I tell my puppy’s age by their teeth?
Generally, yes. You can estimate a puppy’s age by which teeth are present—baby teeth before 12 weeks, mixed teeth around 4–5 months, and full adult teeth by 7 months.

Q3: Is teething painful for puppies?
Mild discomfort is normal. Offer soft, cool toys to relieve pain safely.

Q4: What should I do if my puppy swallows a tooth?
No worries! It’s harmless. Puppy teeth are tiny and usually pass naturally.

Q5: How can I calm a teething puppy at night?
Give a frozen chew toy before bed and keep the sleeping area cool and calm.

Q6: How long does teething last for puppies?
Teething typically lasts 3–5 months, ending around 6–7 months of age.


Conclusion: Helping Your Puppy Through the Teething Phase

Puppy teething can be messy, but it’s a short and important part of their growth. By understanding the puppy teething timeline, offering safe chew options, and using gentle training, you’ll guide your pup through this stage with ease.

Your patience now sets the foundation for a lifetime of healthy teeth and good behavior.

👉 Next Read: Puppy Care Guide for New Owners: First Year Explained

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