Puppy Teething Timeline: What to Expect and How to Help

Understanding the Teething Process

Puppies are born toothless. Their 28 baby teeth erupt between 3-6 weeks of age, and between 12-16 weeks, these fall out and are replaced by 42 adult teeth. Throughout this process, your puppy's gums are sore, itchy, and uncomfortable — which explains the chewing.

What to Expect by Age

• 3-6 weeks: baby teeth emerge — puppy may be slightly fussy about eating
• 12-16 weeks: baby teeth start falling out — you may find tiny teeth on the floor
• 4-6 months: adult teeth push through — peak chewing and discomfort
• 6-8 months: all adult teeth should be in place — chewing decreases

Safe Chewing Solutions

Redirect the chewing instinct to appropriate items:

• Frozen wet towels: twist a damp towel and freeze it — the cold soothes sore gums
• Rubber chew toys: Kongs stuffed with frozen peanut butter (xylitol-free) or yogurt
• Rope toys: the fibres act like floss, cleaning teeth while chewing
• Edible chews: bully sticks or dental chews appropriate for puppy size

What to Avoid

Never give your puppy real bones (splinter risk), hard nylon chews (can crack developing teeth), or children's teething gels (some contain benzocaine, which is toxic to dogs). If you're unsure about a chew, ask your vet.

Protecting Your Home

Puppy-proof aggressively during teething months. Move shoes to closed cupboards, use bitter apple spray on furniture legs, and provide a rotating selection of appropriate chews so your puppy always has something acceptable to gnaw on.

When to See the Vet

Contact your vet if your puppy stops eating for more than 24 hours, if you notice bleeding gums that don't stop, or if baby teeth don't fall out by 8 months (retained baby teeth can cause crowding and may need extraction).

Teething is temporary but intense. With patience and the right tools, you can protect your furniture while keeping your puppy comfortable.