If your puppy is suddenly chewing everything from table legs to your hands, you are likely in the thick of teething. It is a normal, necessary stage, but it can be frustrating and even painful for your pup. Knowing what to expect and how to help makes all the difference. Here are the answers to the most common questions about puppy teething, written from one owner to another.
When Do Puppies Start Teething and Lose Their Baby Teeth?
Puppies are born without teeth. Their first set of 28 baby teeth, also called deciduous teeth, start coming in around 3 to 4 weeks of age. By the time you bring your puppy home at 8 weeks, they usually have a full set of sharp little needles. The real teething phase begins around 12 to 16 weeks, when those baby teeth start falling out to make room for 42 adult teeth. You might find tiny teeth on the floor or in their bed, but many puppies swallow them without issue. The process is usually complete by 6 to 7 months of age.
How Long Does Puppy Teething Last?
The most intense chewing and discomfort typically lasts from about 12 weeks to 6 months of age. That is a solid three to four months of teething behavior. Some puppies, especially larger breeds, may take a bit longer to finish cutting their molars. The good news is that once the adult teeth are in, the urge to chew usually drops significantly, though many dogs remain mouthy as a breed trait. For example, if you own a breed that loves to use their mouth, like an Australian Shepherd, you may notice they stay mouthy longer even after teething ends.
What Are the Best Things for a Teething Puppy to Chew?
Your puppy needs safe, satisfying outlets for their sore gums. The best options are soft enough to give a little but durable enough not to break apart. Rubber toys you can freeze, like a classic Kong, are excellent because the cold numbs the gums. Rope toys are great for tugging and also help clean teeth. Avoid hard nylon bones or antlers during teething, as they can damage emerging adult teeth. For breeds that need extra mental stimulation, like an Australian Shepherd, puzzle toys that dispense treats can distract them from chewing your furniture. Always supervise your puppy with any new chew toy to ensure they do not swallow large pieces.
Puppies have 28 baby teeth, but adult dogs have 42. That is 14 extra teeth coming in during the teething process, which explains why their gums can be so sore and why they chew so much.
How Can I Soothe My Puppy’s Sore Gums at Home?
There are several safe, vet-informed ways to help your puppy feel better. Frozen washcloths are a classic trick: wet a clean cloth, twist it, and freeze it. Your puppy will love to gnaw on the cold fabric. You can also freeze a small amount of plain yogurt or low-sodium chicken broth in an ice cube tray for a tasty treat. Another option is to offer a frozen carrot or a banana slice, but watch for choking hazards. If your puppy seems to be in significant pain, whining, or refusing to eat, ask your vet about safe puppy pain relief. Never give your puppy human pain medication, as it can be toxic.
Will Teething Affect My Puppy’s Appetite or Eating?
Yes, it is very common for a teething puppy to eat less or be picky about their food. The pressure of biting down on hard kibble can hurt their sore gums. If your puppy is leaving food in their bowl, try softening their kibble with warm water for about 10 minutes before serving. You can also offer wet food temporarily. For puppies of larger breeds, like a Cane Corso, switching to a high-quality food that supports growth is important, and you can find specific recommendations in guides on best dog food for Cane Corsos. If your puppy stops eating entirely for more than 24 hours, consult your vet to rule out other issues.
“Teething is temporary, but the habits you build now will last a lifetime. Redirect, reward, and repeat.”
How Do I Stop My Puppy From Biting Me During Teething?
Mouthing and biting are normal puppy behaviors, especially during teething, but you need to teach bite inhibition. The most effective method is to let out a high-pitched yelp when your puppy bites too hard, then immediately stop all play and turn away for 10 to 20 seconds. This mimics what another puppy would do. If the yelping excites them more, simply stand up and walk away. Always have a toy nearby to redirect their mouth to something appropriate. Consistency is key. Never punish or yell at your puppy for biting, as that can make them fearful or more aggressive. With patience, they will learn that human skin is too sensitive for play.
Should I Worry About Retained Baby Teeth?
Sometimes a baby tooth does not fall out when the adult tooth comes in. This is called a retained deciduous tooth, and it is most common in small breeds but can happen in any dog. You may see two teeth in one spot, usually the canine teeth. Retained teeth can cause overcrowding, plaque buildup, and misalignment of the adult teeth. If you notice a baby tooth still present after the adult tooth has erupted, make an appointment with your vet. They will likely recommend extraction, which is a simple procedure. Do not try to pull the tooth yourself, as you can damage the root or cause infection.
