Everything You Need to Know About Puppy Teeth
Puppy teeth are not only cute and sharp, but they’re also vital to your puppy’s development. Puppies need them to chew food and develop into adults with strong adult teeth. But how do puppy teeth change? When do they fall out? What can you do to help your puppy during teething? This article will answer your questions about puppy teeth, so you know what to expect from your new furry friend!
When Puppies Get Their First Teeth
Puppies get their first teeth at about two weeks old. Puppy teeth are smaller than adult teeth, but they’re also sharper–so your pup will have an easier time biting through things.
They’ll have 28 baby teeth that will fall out and be replaced with adult teeth between 6 and 8 months old. The process is called teething, and it can be pretty uncomfortable for your puppy!
Puppy Tooth
When Puppy Teeth Will Start to Fall Out
As your puppy’s adult teeth start to come in, you will notice that they are uncomfortable and start chewing on everything. This is totally normal, and it can take up to three months for all of a puppy’s permanent teeth to emerge.
Your best bet is to provide good things for your little one to chew on during this time: toys, bones, and rawhides are all great options because they relieve pain while also helping clean their gums as they chew away.
For Some suggestions on teething toys, check out this blog.
What Happens if Your Pup Swallows a Baby Tooth
It’s completely normal if your puppy swallows a tooth during the teething process. If your puppy swallows a baby tooth, it will pass through the digestive system. The only time you should contact your vet is if the tooth has been left in place for more than three days or if there is any sign of discomfort or infection (such as swelling)—the best course of action when in doubt is to contact your vet.
How to Help Your Puppy with Teething
Here are some ways to help your puppy with teething:
- Give your puppy something to chew on. This can be a bone, rawhide chew, or stuffed toy specifically designed for puppies. The point of this is to keep them occupied, and so they don’t bite you or your furniture!
- Let your puppy gnaw on frozen treats (like yogurt-covered carrots) that will soothe their sore gums and provide them with something refreshing when it gets hot outside in the summertime.
- Give them something to distract themself from the pain, like a new toy, or try taking them outside for a walk or to play fetch.
When You Should Expect Teething to End
A puppy should lose their baby or puppy teeth at around 12 to 16 weeks of age. If your puppy doesn’t lose them by this time, you should take them to the vet for an oral health exam.
Check out our blog for more information about what you can do for your new puppy as you help them adjust to their new home or other helpful tips and tricks.
