Puppy Teething
When Do Puppies Start Teething?
Puppies are born without teeth, but their first baby teeth usually begin to appear when they're around 3–5 weeks old.
By the time they come home, most puppies will already have their 28 baby teeth.
At around 3–4 months old, these baby teeth begin to fall out as their adult teeth start coming through. By around 6–7 months, most puppies will have their full set of 42 adult teeth.
This is usually when the chewing really begins!
Why Do Puppies Chew So Much?
Chewing is a completely natural behaviour for puppies.
During teething, chewing can help provide some relief when their gums feel uncomfortable. Puppies also explore their surroundings with their mouths, so chewing is part of how they learn about the world around them.
The aim isn't to stop your puppy chewing altogether — it's to teach them what they can chew.
If they go for your shoes, furniture or anything else they shouldn't have, calmly redirect them towards an appropriate toy or chew.
Good chewing habits start early.
Signs Your Puppy Is Teething
You may notice your puppy:
What About the Teeth That Fall Out?
Your puppy's 28 baby teeth will gradually be replaced by their adult teeth.
You may occasionally notice a tiny tooth on the floor, or a little blood on a toy after a tooth has fallen out. A small amount of blood can be normal during this process.
However, if your puppy appears to be in significant pain, has persistent bleeding or you notice anything unusual with their teeth or gums, speak to your vet.
Puppy Teething Isn't an Excuse for Bad Habits
It's tempting to let a puppy chew whatever they want because they're teething — but this can make things much harder later on.
If your puppy starts chewing something they shouldn't:
Stay calm
Don't turn it into a game of chase.
Redirect them
Offer an appropriate toy or chew.
Reward the right choice
Praise them when they start chewing their toy instead.
Start Their Dental Routine Early
Once your puppy's adult teeth start coming through, it's a good time to begin thinking about their long-term dental care.
Getting your puppy used to having their mouth handled from an early age can make brushing much easier later on.
Start slowly. Gently touch around their mouth and teeth, reward them and gradually introduce a toothbrush and dog-safe toothpaste.
You can find more advice on looking after your dog's teeth in our Dog Dental Care Guide.
Our Puppy Teething Essentials
When Should I Contact My Vet?
Teething is a normal process, but contact your vet if you notice:
- Significant or persistent bleeding
- Severe swelling
- Your puppy is struggling to eat
- Obvious or significant pain
- A broken tooth
- Anything unusual about the way their adult teeth are coming through
- Baby teeth that remain in place while adult teeth are developing
If you're concerned about your puppy's teeth or mouth, your vet can check them and advise you.
Teething Won't Last Forever
The chewing phase can feel never-ending, but your puppy will get through it.
Give them appropriate things to chew, redirect unwanted chewing and start introducing good dental habits early.
A little preparation now can make life much easier for both of you later.
Everything Your Puppy Needs
Teething is just one of the new challenges that comes with bringing a puppy home. If you're still getting prepared, our Puppy Essentials guide covers the everyday products you'll need, from toys and enrichment to feeding and settling in.
