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Teething in puppies: everything you need to know

Written by Kelsey | Content Specialist |

Teething is part of a puppy’s development. In a short period of time, the baby teeth are replaced by adult teeth, and this can cause your puppy quite a lot of discomfort. Puppies suddenly want to chew on everything, and this can sometimes come at the expense of furniture, shoes or toys. In this blog, you can read when puppies start teething, which signs to look out for and how you can support your pup during this phase.

When does a puppy start teething?

Just like humans, puppies are born without teeth, and the first baby teeth appear at around three to four weeks of age. From around three to five months, the change to the adult teeth begins. By around seven months of age, the adult teeth are usually complete. In general, the incisors change first, followed by the canines and finally the molars.

How can you tell that your puppy is teething?

During teething, your puppy may suffer from sensitive teeth and gums. This often gives them a strong urge to chew. Many puppies suddenly start biting more on toys, furniture, hands or other items around the house. Other noticeable signs include:

  • More chewing behaviour
  • Red or sensitive gums
  • Reduced appetite
  • More drooling
  • Loose teeth
  • Slightly bleeding gums

Sometimes you may find a tooth, but most puppies swallow their baby teeth while eating or playing. This is normal and harmless.

Does teething hurt?

Teething can be very uncomfortable for a puppy, especially when the larger teeth and molars come through. Fortunately, you can help your puppy in various ways with chew toys for puppies and cooling products.

Chew toys for puppies

Why is my puppy suddenly chewing on everything?

Chewing helps reduce pressure on the gums. Puppies also explore their surroundings with their mouths, and this need often increases during teething. Provide enough chewing material to support them and prevent them from biting furniture and other items.

Which snacks are suitable during teething?

In addition to toys, you can offer chew snacks to support your puppy. Always make sure the snack is suitable for your pup’s age and size. Snacks that are too hard or too large can put extra strain on the teeth. Examples of chew snacks include:

What should you avoid?

During teething, the teeth and gums are very sensitive. It is therefore wise to:

  • Avoid giving hard snacks for adult dogs, such as hard chew bones
  • Avoid tug games
  • Avoid pulling on loose teeth

Get your puppy used to dental care

By getting your puppy used to dental care from a young age, such as touching the mouth and brushing the teeth, you make dental care much easier later in life.

When should you go to the vet?

Teething does not always go smoothly. Sometimes baby teeth remain in place while the adult teeth are already coming through. Contact your vet if you:

  • See double teeth
  • See an abnormal tooth position
  • See inflamed gums
  • Notice that your puppy is eating much less
  • Discover a broken tooth

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