Puppy Teething: Timeline, Symptoms & How to Help

Last updated: May 4, 2026

If your new puppy has started gnawing on everything within reach — your shoes, the furniture legs, your fingers — there is a very good chance that puppy teething is the reason. Teething is one of the most universal experiences in puppyhood, and while it is completely normal, it can catch first-time owners off guard. The good news is that it is a temporary phase, and there is a lot you can do to make the process easier for both you and your puppy.

This guide covers everything you need to know about puppy teething: the full timeline from baby teeth to adult teeth, the symptoms you are likely to see, the best chew toys to offer, what to avoid, and how to handle the nipping that comes with the territory. Whether you have just adopted a puppy or are preparing to bring one home, understanding teething will help you stay patient and prepared.

The Puppy Teething Timeline

Puppies go through two distinct teething phases: the arrival of their baby teeth (also called deciduous teeth) and the replacement of those baby teeth with permanent adult teeth. Here is what to expect at each stage.

Weeks 2 to 4: Baby teeth begin to emerge. Puppies are born without teeth. The first tiny teeth — usually the incisors at the front of the mouth — start breaking through the gums at around two to three weeks of age. By the time a puppy is four weeks old, the canine teeth (the longer, pointed ones) are typically visible as well. Most of this happens while puppies are still with their mother and littermates.

Weeks 5 to 8: Full set of baby teeth. By six to eight weeks, most puppies have their complete set of 28 baby teeth. These include 12 incisors, 4 canines, and 12 premolars. Baby teeth are noticeably small, sharp, and needle-like — anyone who has been on the receiving end of a puppy nibble knows exactly how sharp they are. This is also typically when puppies are weaned and begin eating solid food.

Months 3 to 4: Baby teeth start falling out. Around 12 weeks of age, the roots of the baby teeth begin to be absorbed by the body, and the teeth loosen and fall out to make way for adult teeth. The incisors are usually the first to go. You may find tiny teeth on the floor, in their bedding, or stuck in a chew toy — though many puppies swallow their baby teeth while eating, which is perfectly harmless.

Months 4 to 6: Adult teeth replace baby teeth. This is the most intense phase of puppy teething. The adult premolars and molars are pushing through, and the adult canines and incisors are settling into place. Your puppy’s chewing drive will peak during this window, and you are likely to see the most discomfort and behavioral changes. Providing plenty of appropriate chew outlets during this period is essential.

Months 6 to 7: All adult teeth are in. By six to seven months of age, most puppies have their full set of 42 adult teeth: 12 incisors, 4 canines, 16 premolars, and 10 molars. The teething process is essentially over at this point, and your puppy’s intense need to chew everything in sight should begin to subside — though a healthy interest in chewing will remain throughout their life.

Common Puppy Teething Symptoms

Puppy teething is not subtle. The symptoms are usually easy to spot once you know what to look for, and recognizing them will help you respond with the right kind of support instead of frustration.

Increased chewing. This is the hallmark of teething. Your puppy will want to chew on everything — toys, furniture, shoes, cables, your hands, anything they can get their mouth on. The pressure of chewing helps relieve the discomfort of new teeth pushing through the gums, so the impulse is not behavioral mischief but a genuine physical need.

Drooling. Teething stimulates saliva production, so do not be surprised if your puppy seems droolier than usual. Some puppies drool noticeably more during the peak months of adult teeth coming in.

Swollen or red gums. If you gently lift your puppy’s lip, you may notice that the gums look redder, puffier, or more inflamed than normal, particularly in areas where new teeth are erupting. This is expected and usually resolves on its own as each tooth finishes coming in.

Slight bleeding from the gums. A small amount of blood on a chew toy or in the water bowl is normal during teething. It happens when a baby tooth falls out or when a new tooth breaks through the gum tissue. If bleeding seems heavy or persistent, it is worth mentioning to your veterinarian.

Decreased appetite. Some puppies eat less during teething because their gums are sore. If your puppy seems reluctant to eat hard kibble, you can soften it with a little warm water or offer wet food temporarily. A brief dip in appetite during peak teething is not unusual, but a prolonged refusal to eat should be checked by a vet.

Irritability and whining. Puppies can become fussier during teething. If your usually cheerful puppy seems more restless, whiny, or easily frustrated, sore gums are likely the reason. Extra patience and calm interaction go a long way.

Safe Chew Toys for Teething Puppies

The single most effective thing you can do for a teething puppy is provide appropriate things to chew. A good teething toy satisfies your puppy’s urge to gnaw while soothing sore gums and directing chewing away from your belongings. Here is what to look for.

Rubber teething toys. Soft, flexible rubber toys designed specifically for puppies are one of the best options. Look for toys labeled as suitable for teething or for puppies under six months. They should have enough give to be gentle on developing teeth and gums but be durable enough to withstand persistent chewing. Many come in shapes with ridges or nubs that provide a gentle gum massage.

Rope toys. Braided cotton rope toys are another popular choice. The texture of the fibers can feel soothing on inflamed gums, and the act of pulling and tugging provides a satisfying outlet for chewing energy. Choose ropes sized appropriately for your puppy and replace them once they start to fray significantly, since swallowed fibers can cause digestive issues.

Textured chew rings. Teething rings designed for puppies — similar in concept to baby teething rings — offer varied textures that puppies find satisfying to work their mouths over. Some are designed to be frozen for additional relief, which is a significant bonus during peak teething.

Stuffable toys. Hollow rubber toys that can be stuffed with soft food or treats give your puppy a reason to chew that goes beyond gum relief. You can fill them with a small amount of peanut butter (xylitol-free), mashed banana, or softened kibble and freeze them for a longer-lasting, soothing chew experience.

Rotate your puppy’s chew toys regularly so they stay interesting. If the same toy is available every day, your puppy may lose interest and go looking for something more exciting — like your shoes. Having a selection of three or four toys and rotating them keeps things fresh. If you are researching the right breed match for your home, our dog breeds directory can help you understand breed-specific chewing tendencies as well.

What Not to Give a Teething Puppy

Not all chew items are safe for teething puppies, and some commonly recommended options can actually cause harm. Here is what to avoid.

Hard bones. Real bones — cooked or raw — are too hard for a puppy’s developing teeth and can cause fractures, chips, or cracks. Cooked bones are especially dangerous because they can splinter into sharp pieces that damage the mouth, throat, or digestive tract.

Antlers and hooves. Deer antlers, elk antlers, and cow hooves are popular chew items for adult dogs, but they are far too hard for puppies. The risk of cracking a baby tooth or a newly erupted adult tooth is significant. Save these for when your dog is fully grown, if at all.

Ice cubes. While cold temperatures can soothe sore gums, solid ice cubes are hard enough to damage teeth. There are better ways to offer cold relief, which we will cover in the frozen treats section below.

Rawhide. Rawhide chews are controversial even for adult dogs, but they are particularly unsuitable for puppies. They can swell in the stomach, pose a choking hazard, and are often treated with chemicals during manufacturing. If your puppy tears off and swallows a large piece, it can cause a blockage that requires veterinary intervention.

Household items. Old shoes, socks, and towels might seem like harmless chew items, but giving them to your puppy teaches the dog that these objects are acceptable to chew. Your puppy cannot distinguish between an old shoe you have donated for chewing and your brand-new pair by the door. Stick to toys that are clearly different from household items.

Toys with small parts. Avoid any toy with small, detachable components — buttons, eyes, squeaker mechanisms — that a puppy could chew off and swallow. Always supervise new toys during the first few sessions to make sure your puppy is not able to break off pieces.

Frozen Treat Ideas for Teething Relief

Cold temperatures are one of the most effective natural soothers for swollen, sore gums. The cold helps reduce inflammation and provides a numbing effect that gives puppies genuine relief. Here are several easy frozen treat ideas you can prepare at home.

Frozen washcloths. Soak a clean washcloth in water, wring it out so it is damp but not dripping, twist it into a rope shape, and freeze it. The cold, slightly rough texture is surprisingly satisfying for teething puppies to gnaw on. Supervise your puppy with this one and take it away once it thaws or if they start tearing off pieces.

Frozen carrots. A whole peeled carrot, frozen, makes an excellent teething toy for medium to large breed puppies. It is firm enough to provide chewing resistance, cold enough to soothe the gums, and low in calories. For small breed puppies, cut the carrot into appropriate pieces to avoid choking.

Frozen fruit pieces. Small pieces of frozen banana, blueberries, or watermelon (seedless, rind removed) can be offered as quick, cooling treats. These work best scattered in a bowl or stuffed into a hollow toy rather than handed directly, to prevent your puppy from gulping them whole.

Frozen stuffed toys. Fill a hollow rubber toy with a mixture of plain yogurt and mashed banana, softened kibble mixed with a little water, or xylitol-free peanut butter thinned with water. Freeze overnight. The result is a long-lasting, soothing chew that keeps your puppy engaged and provides cold relief at the same time.

Frozen chicken or bone broth cubes. Pour low-sodium, onion-free chicken broth or bone broth into a silicone mold or ice cube tray and freeze. The broth flavor makes these irresistible to most puppies, and the cold soothes sore gums. Because they are softer than ice cubes, they are gentler on teeth. Offer one at a time on a surface that is easy to clean, since they can be messy.

Managing Biting and Nipping During Teething

One of the most common frustrations during puppy teething is the increase in mouthing, nipping, and biting behavior. Puppies naturally explore the world with their mouths, and when their gums are sore, the impulse to bite down on things — including your hands, arms, and ankles — intensifies. This behavior is not aggression; it is discomfort-driven and developmentally normal. But it does need to be managed so your puppy learns appropriate boundaries.

Redirect immediately. Every time your puppy puts their teeth on you, calmly remove your hand and immediately offer an appropriate chew toy instead. The goal is to teach your puppy that toys are for biting and people are not. Be consistent — every single time, not just sometimes.

Use a “yelp” or “ouch” response. When a puppy bites a littermate too hard, the bitten puppy yelps and stops playing. You can mimic this by letting out a short, high-pitched sound and briefly withdrawing attention when your puppy bites you. This teaches your puppy that biting ends the fun.

Take breaks. If your puppy is overly mouthy during play, it may mean they are overtired, overstimulated, or in particular discomfort. End the play session calmly and give your puppy some quiet time with a chew toy or a frozen treat. Puppies need a surprising amount of sleep — 18 to 20 hours a day — and bitey behavior often signals that they need rest.

Avoid punishment. Yelling, scruffing, or holding your puppy’s mouth shut are not effective responses to teething-related biting. These approaches create fear and confusion and can damage the trust you are building with your puppy. Calm redirection and consistency are far more effective and preserve the bond between you and your dog.

Be patient with children. If you have children in the home, teach them to keep their hands still and move away slowly when the puppy starts nipping. Running and squealing tend to increase a puppy’s excitement and make the biting worse. Supervise all interactions between young children and teething puppies.

When Do Adult Teeth Come In?

Adult teeth begin replacing baby teeth at around three to four months of age, and the process generally follows a predictable order.

Incisors (3 to 5 months). The small front teeth are usually the first to be replaced. You may notice gaps in your puppy’s smile as the baby incisors fall out and the slightly larger adult incisors grow in.

Canines (4 to 6 months). The adult canine teeth are significantly larger than their baby predecessors. It is not uncommon for the adult canine to start coming in before the baby canine has fallen out, temporarily giving your puppy a double row of teeth in that spot. If the baby canine does not fall out on its own within a week or two, mention it to your vet — retained baby teeth can cause alignment problems.

Premolars (4 to 6 months). The premolars come in along the sides of the mouth. Puppies have premolars in their baby set, so these are replacements. The adult versions are larger and stronger.

Molars (5 to 7 months). The molars are the last teeth to arrive, and they are entirely new — puppies do not have molars in their baby set. These large, flat teeth are designed for grinding food and come in at the very back of the mouth. By the time the molars are fully in, your puppy has their complete adult set of 42 teeth.

Watch for retained baby teeth. Occasionally, a baby tooth does not fall out even though the adult tooth has come in. This is called a retained deciduous tooth, and it is most common with the canines and incisors. Retained baby teeth can cause overcrowding, misalignment, and increased risk of dental disease because food gets trapped between the two teeth. Your veterinarian may recommend extracting retained baby teeth, often during a spay or neuter procedure to avoid a separate anesthesia event.

Dental Care for Puppies

Teething is an ideal time to start building good dental care habits. The earlier you introduce your puppy to having their mouth handled, the easier dental care will be throughout their life.

Start with gentle mouth handling. Before you introduce a toothbrush, spend a few days simply lifting your puppy’s lips, touching their gums, and running your finger along their teeth. Pair this with praise and a small treat so your puppy builds a positive association with having their mouth touched. Keep each session short — 30 seconds is plenty at first.

Introduce a puppy toothbrush. Once your puppy is comfortable with mouth handling, move on to a soft-bristled puppy toothbrush or a finger brush. Use enzymatic toothpaste formulated specifically for dogs — never human toothpaste, which contains fluoride and other ingredients that are toxic to dogs. Most dog toothpastes come in flavors like poultry or beef, which makes the experience more appealing for your puppy.

Brush regularly. Aim for several times per week as a minimum, working up to daily brushing if possible. Even brief, gentle brushing sessions help prevent plaque buildup and get your puppy accustomed to the routine. Dogs that have their teeth brushed regularly from puppyhood are far more cooperative about dental care as adults.

Schedule a dental check at your first vet visit. Your veterinarian will examine your puppy’s teeth during routine check-ups and can identify any issues with tooth development, alignment, or retained baby teeth early on. If you notice anything unusual — persistent bad breath, a tooth that looks discolored or damaged, excessive drooling, or reluctance to eat — bring it up at your next appointment or schedule a visit sooner.

Consider dental chews as a supplement. Dental chews designed for puppies can help reduce plaque and tartar buildup while satisfying the urge to chew. They should not replace brushing but can be a useful addition to your puppy’s dental care routine. Choose products sized appropriately for your puppy and look for those with veterinary endorsements.

Starting dental care early is one of the most impactful things you can do for your puppy’s long-term health. Dental disease is one of the most common health issues in adult dogs, and prevention is far easier, less expensive, and less stressful than treatment. If you are thinking about adopting a puppy, building dental care into your daily routine from day one will set you both up for success.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does puppy teething last?

The entire teething process — from the first baby teeth appearing to the last adult molars settling in — spans roughly from 2 weeks to 7 months of age. The most uncomfortable phase for puppies is typically between 3 and 6 months, when baby teeth are falling out and adult teeth are coming in simultaneously. By 7 months, most puppies have their full set of 42 adult teeth and the teething discomfort has passed.

Is it normal for a teething puppy to lose their appetite?

A temporary decrease in appetite during peak teething is fairly common. Sore gums can make chewing hard kibble uncomfortable, so you may notice your puppy eating more slowly or leaving food in the bowl. Softening kibble with warm water or offering wet food temporarily can help. If your puppy refuses to eat for more than a day or seems lethargic, contact your veterinarian to rule out other issues.

Can I give my puppy ice cubes for teething?

Solid ice cubes are not recommended because they can be hard enough to chip or crack developing teeth. Better alternatives include frozen washcloths, frozen carrots, frozen broth cubes made in silicone molds, or frozen stuffed rubber toys. These all provide cold relief without the risk of dental damage.

When should I worry about my puppy’s teething?

Most teething progresses without any issues. Contact your veterinarian if you notice heavy or persistent bleeding from the gums, a baby tooth that has not fallen out despite the adult tooth being fully visible (retained tooth), any teeth that appear to be growing at unusual angles, a significant change in eating behavior lasting more than 24 to 48 hours, or signs of infection such as swelling, pus, or strong odor from the mouth.

Do all puppy breeds teethe on the same schedule?

The general timeline is consistent across breeds, but there is some variation. Smaller breeds sometimes teethe slightly earlier, while larger breeds may take a bit longer for all adult teeth to come in. Individual variation within a breed is also normal. The overall window of 3 to 7 months for the baby-to-adult transition applies to the vast majority of puppies regardless of breed. You can learn more about breed-specific traits and timelines in our dog breeds directory.

How can I tell the difference between teething and a dental problem?

Normal teething involves mild gum redness and swelling, occasional small spots of blood on toys, increased chewing behavior, and perhaps a slight dip in appetite. Signs that something beyond normal teething may be happening include persistent foul breath, excessive or prolonged bleeding, a tooth that looks broken or discolored, noticeable swelling on one side of the face, or your puppy crying out in pain when eating or chewing. If you are ever unsure, a quick veterinary check can give you peace of mind.