Did you know that, just like humans, dogs also have both adult and baby teeth?
In other words, there comes a time in their development when they transition from their milk teeth to their permanent teeth.
In this article, we’ll provide a clear explanation of the timing for this transition in dogs, including important points to watch for and how to handle the situation when their teeth start to fall out
Teething typically occurs between 4 to 6 months of age
Puppies typically have their milk teeth fully erupted by around 2 months of age, and they begin transitioning to their permanent teeth between 4 to 6 months. This is quite different from humans, who usually have a complete set of milk teeth by around age 3, so the difference can be surprising. It’s worth noting that puppies have a total of 28 milk teeth and will develop 42 permanent teeth. However, the number of teeth and the timing of this transition can vary among individual dogs
Important Points to Note About the Teething Period
During the teething period, you might notice changes in how your dog eats.
Unlike human children, who often let their parents know about loose or missing teeth through clear signs, dogs don’t always show these changes as obviously. It’s not uncommon to have difficulty finding the lost baby teeth, so it’s important to closely observe your dog’s eating habits when they are going through teething.
You may notice that loose milk teeth can cause discomfort or make chewing difficult, leading to changes in how your dog eats
Troubles During the Teething Period and How to Handle Them
What to Do If Your Dog Swallows a Tooth
It’s quite common for puppies to swallow a baby tooth while eating, along with their food, but generally, this is not a cause for concern. Just like in humans, the tooth will eventually be expelled in their feces after some time
Bleeding from the Area Where a Tooth Fell Out
When a baby tooth falls out, it may sometimes cause a small amount of bleeding. This bleeding is usually minimal and will naturally stop after a short time. It’s similar to a minor scratch, so there’s generally no need for concern. However, if the bleeding is excessive or doesn’t stop, there could be an underlying issue, and you should contact a veterinarian as soon as possible.
Retained Baby Teeth” Can Affect the Permanent Teeth
The timing and order of baby teeth falling out are somewhat predictable. Typically, the incisors (front teeth) will be replaced first, followed by the molars (back teeth), and finally, the canines (fangs).
However, sometimes baby teeth can remain in place longer than expected. This condition is known as “retained baby teeth” in veterinary terms. When baby teeth persist, they can create gaps between the baby teeth and permanent teeth, making it easier for plaque and tartar to accumulate. This can lead to an increased risk of periodontal disease and deteriorate oral hygiene. If you notice that retained baby teeth are causing a double row of teeth, it’s important to consult a veterinarian.
What to Do During the Teething Period
During the teething period, it’s essential to monitor your dog closely. Check to ensure that the teething process is progressing normally and that your dog isn’t causing injury to its mouth by chewing on various objects due to discomfort. Developing a habit of regularly checking your dog’s mouth from a young age will help them get used to having their mouth handled as they grow older.
Ideally, getting your dog accustomed to tooth brushing during this period can help establish a brushing routine in the future, promoting better oral and overall health. This can significantly improve their long-term well-being.
Summary
As you can see, there are several things to watch for during the teething period in dogs. Use the information provided to prevent major issues.
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