Puppy Teething Timeline: What to Expect and When

Health · Updated June 28, 2026 · Pup Playbook

If your puppy is suddenly chewing everything in sight and you've spotted a tiny tooth on the floor, you're in the thick of teething. Like human babies, puppies grow a set of baby teeth and then lose them as adult teeth come in. Knowing the timeline helps you support your puppy through the sore-gum months and protect your belongings.

The general timeline

• 2–4 weeks: the first baby (deciduous) teeth begin to appear — this happens with the breeder.
• By about 6–8 weeks: a full set of around 28 baby teeth is usually in.
• 3–4 months: baby teeth start falling out as adult teeth push through. This is when you'll find tiny teeth and notice more chewing.
• By about 6–7 months: most puppies have their full set of around 42 adult teeth.

Timing varies by individual and breed, so don't worry if your puppy is a little ahead or behind.

Signs of teething

Beyond the obvious chewing, you might notice drooling, a little blood on toys (usually nothing to worry about as teeth fall out), tender gums, and the occasional found tooth. Many puppies swallow their baby teeth harmlessly while eating, so don't be alarmed if you never find some.

How to help your puppy (and your furniture)

Teething puppies need to chew, so give them safe, appealing outlets. Offer a variety of textures — soft rubber, firmer chews, and freezable toys — and redirect them to a toy any time they aim those teeth at you or the furniture. Rotate toys so they stay interesting. Our toys and chews page lists good options, and the biting and chewing guide covers redirection in depth.

When to call the vet

Teething itself is normal, but check with your veterinarian if you notice retained baby teeth (a baby tooth still in place next to an erupting adult tooth), broken teeth, swelling, bad breath beyond normal “puppy breath,” or if your puppy stops eating. Your vet will also check dental development at routine visits, so mention anything that concerns you. Starting a gentle tooth-brushing habit now, covered in our healthy-puppy tips, sets up a lifetime of dental health.

Why the chewing spikes

You may notice two big waves of chewing. The first comes when baby teeth are pushing through in those early weeks. The second, often more intense, hits around three to six months as the larger adult teeth erupt and the jaw works to set them. This second wave is when a lot of furniture gets sacrificed, simply because the urge to chew peaks right when your puppy is also bigger and stronger. Knowing it’s a phase — and a normal, necessary one — makes it easier to respond with patience instead of frustration.

Safe ways to soothe sore gums

Cold is your friend during teething. A rubber chew toy filled and frozen, a frozen wet washcloth, or chilled (not rock-hard) teething toys all help numb tender gums. Steer clear of anything so hard it could crack a tooth — if you can’t make a dent in it with a thumbnail, it’s probably too hard for a puppy. Rotate a few textures so there’s always something appealing within reach, and praise your puppy every time they choose a toy over your hand or the table leg.

Care for the new adult teeth

Once the adult set is in, those are the teeth your dog keeps for life, so it’s worth protecting them. Keep up the gentle brushing habit you started, give appropriate dental chews, and mention any concerns at routine vet visits. A little care now prevents a lot of dental trouble down the road.