Understanding Your Puppy’s Teeth
From the moment you bring your fur baby home, you’re invested in their wellbeing. One of the most significant milestones you’ll observe is when your dog starts losing their baby teeth. Much like humans, dogs have two sets of teeth: primary (baby) teeth and permanent (adult) teeth. Puppies, like newborns, aren’t born with any teeth. Their baby teeth start to emerge when they’re about 3 to 6 weeks old.
When Do Dogs Start Losing Their Baby Teeth?
Around 12 to 16 weeks, your puppy will start to lose their baby teeth. You might be asking, “What happens to the teeth that fall out?” More often than not, your dog will swallow the teeth while they’re eating, and you won’t even notice they’ve lost a tooth. Don’t worry, this is normal and safe.
What To Expect During the Teething Phase?
During the teething phase, you’ll notice:
- Increased chewing
- Light bleeding from the gums
- Missing teeth
- Increased drooling
Dogs have 28 baby teeth and end up with 42 adult teeth. The teething process may take up to 6 months, so be patient and supportive.
| Age | Teeth Coming in |
|---|---|
| 2-4 weeks | Incisors |
| 1 month | Canine teeth |
| 1.5-2 months | Premolars |
How To Help Your Teething Puppy?
- Provide Chew Toys: Invest in plenty of chew toys. This not only relieves their discomfort but also keeps them from chewing on your furniture.
- Cold Items: Cold items can soothe their gums. A frozen washcloth or special puppy teething toys can work wonders.
- Gentle Play: Avoid tug-of-war games that could damage their sensitive gums.
- Regular Vet Checkups: Regular vet checkups are crucial during this period to ensure the teeth are growing in correctly.
What If My Adult Dog Loses a Tooth?
Adult dogs shouldn’t lose their teeth. If they do, it’s often a sign of severe dental disease. It’s crucial to maintain regular dental hygiene for your dog, including brushing their teeth and providing dental chews. If you notice your adult dog losing teeth, schedule a vet appointment immediately.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How many teeth do puppies lose?
A: Puppies lose 28 baby teeth.
Q: At what age do dogs lose their teeth?
A: Dogs start losing their teeth between 12 to 16 weeks.
Q: Should I worry if my adult dog loses a tooth?
A: Yes, it’s a sign of dental disease. Visit a vet immediately.
Q: Can I help my teething puppy somehow?
A: Yes, provide chew toys, cold items, gentle play, and regular vet checkups.
