The Teething Timeline
Puppies are born without teeth. Baby teeth start coming in around 3 weeks and are fully in by 6 to 8 weeks. Adult teeth begin replacing baby teeth around 12 weeks, and the process is usually complete by 6 to 7 months. During this transition, your puppy's gums are sore, itchy, and uncomfortable.
Why Puppies Chew Everything
Chewing relieves teething pain and is a natural way puppies explore their world. It is not misbehavior — it is biology. Your job is to redirect chewing to appropriate items, not to stop it entirely. Puppies who are punished for chewing often develop anxiety or learn to chew when you are not looking.
Safe Chewing Options
Offer a variety of textures: rubber toys like Kongs, frozen washcloths, rope toys, and durable nylon chews. Rotate toys to keep them interesting. Avoid anything that can splinter, break into small pieces, or is small enough to swallow. Frozen carrots make great teething treats for many puppies.
Protecting Your Belongings
Prevention is easier than correction. Keep shoes, remotes, and cables out of reach. Use baby gates to limit access to rooms that are not puppy-proofed. When your puppy grabs something forbidden, calmly trade it for an approved chew toy and praise the switch.
When to Worry
Bleeding gums during teething are normal. But if you notice a retained baby tooth that has not fallen out by 7 months, bad breath, excessive drooling, or refusal to eat, contact your vet. Retained baby teeth can cause alignment problems and need professional removal.
