Understanding Dog Teeth: From Teething to Lifelong Care

As dog owners, we often think about training, diet, and exercise — but our dogs’ teeth are just as important to their wellbeing. Dental health affects more than just their smile; it influences how they eat, play, and even how comfortable they feel day to day. 

Understanding how a dog’s teeth develop, and what to look out for, can make a real difference to their comfort and behaviour.  

Puppy Teeth: The Early Stages

Puppies are born without teeth, but by around three weeks of age, their 28 baby (deciduous) teeth begin to appear. These tiny, needle-like teeth are designed to help them start exploring solid food and learning to chew — but they don’t last long. From around three to six months, those baby teeth begin to fall out and are replaced by 42 permanent adult teeth. During this stage, you might notice your puppy chewing more than usual, drooling, or even spotting the odd tiny tooth on the floor or in a chew toy. While this is completely normal, it can be uncomfortable. The gums may be sore and itchy, and puppies will instinctively seek relief through chewing. Offering safe, appropriate chew toys can help ease this discomfort and protect your furniture, shoes, and hands!  

Extended Teething: It Doesn’t Always End at Six Months

Although most dogs have their full set of adult teeth by around seven months, the teething process can continue for up to two years. This surprises many owners, but it’s not unusual for dogs to experience lingering gum sensitivity or dental changes as their jaw continues to grow and mature. During this period, you might notice intermittent chewing behaviour, occasional reluctance to eat hard food, or sensitivity when playing tug or catching toys. Patience is key — just like with young children, teething phases come and go. Continue providing suitable chew options and avoid harsh corrections if your dog chews inappropriately. Instead, redirect them to something appropriate and reward that choice.  

How Teeth Affect Behaviour

Dental discomfort doesn’t just cause chewing; it can also influence a dog’s behaviour. A dog in pain might become irritable, withdrawn, or reluctant to follow cues they normally know well. In some cases, sudden behaviour changes — such as growling when handled around the face — can be linked to dental pain. If you suspect discomfort, check their mouth gently for redness, swelling, or broken teeth. If you’re unsure, it’s always best to consult your vet for a proper examination. Pain can have a significant impact on learning and confidence, so addressing it promptly supports both emotional and physical wellbeing.  

Caring for Adult Teeth  

Once your dog’s adult teeth have settled, regular maintenance is essential. Dental problems are one of the most common health issues in dogs, but they’re also highly preventable. You don’t need specialist equipment to start — just make it part of your routine to:  

• Check your dog’s mouth regularly. Look for signs of plaque, redness, bad breath, or loose teeth.  

• Brush their teeth often. Ideally daily, but a few times a week is a great start. Use dog-safe toothpaste and introduce brushing slowly so it’s a positive experience.  

• Provide safe chew toys or dental chews. These help keep teeth clean and gums strong, while giving your dog something enjoyable to do.  

• Encourage good habits early. Puppies who learn that mouth handling is calm and rewarding will find dental care much easier later in life. Remember, prevention is far easier — and kinder — than treatment.

Healthy Mouth, Happy Dog  

Dental health plays a bigger role in your dog’s life than many people realise. From puppy teething to adult maintenance, taking care of your dog’s mouth supports not only their comfort, but also their behaviour, training success, and overall wellbeing. A dog that feels good physically is far more able to focus, learn, and enjoy life to the fullest — and that’s what we all want for our companions. 

If you’d like advice on helping your puppy through teething or managing chewing behaviours, I’d be happy to help. Get in touch with me to learn how to support your dog’s development in a calm, positive way.