Puppy Teething Survival Guide for New Owners
Puppies begin teething around 3-4 weeks and finish by 6-8 months. During this period, they will chew everything in reach. Understanding the process helps you protect both your belongings and your puppy's developing teeth.
The Teething Timeline
- 3-6 weeks — baby teeth emerge
- 12-16 weeks — baby teeth fall out, adult teeth begin pushing through (most intense chewing phase)
- 6-8 months — all 42 adult teeth should be in place
Safe Chewing Solutions
Provide a variety of chew textures:
- Rubber toys — Kong Classic (can be frozen with peanut butter inside)
- Rope toys — satisfy the urge to tug and gnaw
- Frozen carrots — cold soothes inflamed gums and is fully digestible
- Wet towel trick — soak a clean towel, twist, freeze; the texture and cold are irresistible
Furniture Protection
Use bitter apple spray on table legs and baseboards. Keep shoes, remotes, and cords out of reach. When you catch your puppy chewing something inappropriate, redirect to an approved toy immediately.
When to Call the Vet
Retained baby teeth (adult tooth growing alongside baby tooth), bleeding that won't stop, or refusal to eat due to mouth pain all warrant veterinary attention. Otherwise, teething is a normal developmental phase that passes with patience and preparation.
