Understanding the Timeline
Just like in humans, your puppy will also go through a process of losing their baby teeth to make way for their adult ones. The timeline for this can vary, but generally, puppies start losing their baby teeth around three to four months of age.
- Two to four weeks: Puppy’s incisors, the small teeth at the front of the mouth, start to emerge.
- Four to six weeks: Canines and premolars appear.
- Three to four months: Baby teeth begin to fall out to make way for adult teeth.
Recognizing The Signs
As your dog goes through this transition, you may notice certain signs. It’s important to be aware of these so you can provide the right support.
- Loose teeth
- Bleeding gums
- Refusing to eat
- Excessive drooling
- Chewing on everything
How To Help Your Teething Puppy
There are various ways you can help ease your puppy’s discomfort during this teething process.
- Provide chew toys: Chew toys can provide relief from the discomfort. Make sure the toys are safe and appropriate for your puppy’s size and age.
- Use cold items: Similar to human babies, a cold item can help soothe your puppy’s gums. You could try freezing a wet washcloth for your puppy to chew on.
- Feed soft foods: If your puppy is refusing to eat, try offering some soft foods.
What To Avoid
While it’s important to provide your puppy with relief, there are also a few things you should avoid during this period.
- Don’t pull loose teeth: If a tooth is loose, let it fall out naturally. Pulling it could cause your puppy pain or lead to an infection.
- Avoid hard toys: Hard toys can damage your puppy’s new adult teeth so stick to soft, chewable items.
- Don’t ignore excessive bleeding: If your puppy’s gums are bleeding excessively, it’s time to call the vet.
When To See The Vet
It’s normal for puppies to experience some discomfort and even a little bleeding during teething. However, there are times when it’s necessary to consult a vet.
- Your puppy won’t eat or drink
- There is excessive bleeding from the gums
- Your puppy seems to be in a lot of pain
- You notice swelling or redness in your puppy’s mouth
Frequently Asked Questions
-
Do all breeds of dogs lose their baby teeth at the same time?
No, smaller breeds often lose their teeth earlier than larger breeds. -
What happens if a puppy’s baby tooth doesn’t fall out?
If a baby tooth doesn’t fall out, it can cause problems for the adult tooth. Your vet may need to extract it. -
How long does the teething process last?
Generally, most puppies will have their full set of adult teeth by six months of age. -
Can teething cause other issues in puppies?
Yes, teething can sometimes lead to issues such as bad breath, excessive drooling, and a decrease in appetite. -
Is it normal for a puppy to swallow a baby tooth?
Yes, it’s common and usually not a cause for concern. However, if you notice any unusual behavior, contact your vet.