Changing puppy teeth: What to look out for
As you probably know, dogs are mammals - which is why they also lose their milk teeth as puppies, with the permanent teeth subsequently breaking through. Usually, no symptoms occur during this time. However, sometimes it is still necessary to visit the vet. In any case, it is important that you keep an eye on your young four-legged friend and support him if necessary. This is because puppies are more susceptible to inflammation when changing teeth. Find out the most important facts about this process in this article - after all, the topic affects every dog owner!
The most important information about the change of teeth in puppies
Dogs are always born toothless - however, the milk teeth already break through in the third week of life. The primary dentition consists of 28 teeth: This consists of six molars, two canines and six incisors, whereby these are located in both the upper and lower jaw. Depending on the breed, animals keep their milk teeth until they are three to seven months old. After this, the change of teeth takes place - the milk teeth give way to the permanent teeth. The latter consists of a total of 42 teeth. As a rule, this process takes place somewhat earlier in larger four-legged friends than in smaller dog breeds.
The change of teeth in dogs - the sequence of tooth growth
There is a fixed sequence for the change of teeth in puppies: the front incisors always come out first - this process usually takes place between the third and fifth month of life. The canine and third incisor follow in the fourth to seventh month of life. The front molar also emerges during this development phase. From the fourth to the sixth month, the remaining three front molars and the rear molars finally grow. Finally, the last molar emerges from the gums. Your dog's dentition is now complete!
Behaviour and symptoms of changing teeth
The change of teeth becomes noticeable when the puppy starts to chew pillows, pull at clothing or nibble on furniture. This is because the dog's gums become very itchy during this period. Chewing on objects provides the puppy with relief when changing teeth. It is therefore advisable to provide the puppy with robust chew toys. This allows him to satisfy his urge to chew while you also protect your furniture.
Puppies often lick their teeth more often. This instinctively loosens their teeth, causing them to fall out more quickly. You may even find a milk tooth in your home. You can of course keep this as a reminder of the change of teeth as a puppy! However, it can also happen that you never get to see a tooth. This is because dogs often swallow their milk teeth as soon as they fall out.
Other less common symptoms are diarrhoea, bad breath or even vomiting. However, this is very rare and should be checked out by a vet. This way you can rule out other diseases.
You sometimes need to take action if the dog is sleeping restlessly and cannot rest. A refusal of food is also a sign of inflammation. The first thing to do with these signs is to take a look in your dog's mouth. It is also advisable to visit the vet. Because if there are problems with the change of teeth, the puppy is completely dependent on your help!
Making the change of teeth easier for your dog - what helps?
If your four-legged friend is teething, you should check their teeth regularly. This will show you how healthy they are - you will also notice any inflammation soon after. It is also worth focussing on gentle play. Tugging games, for example, should be avoided at all costs - they can lead to the milk teeth breaking off violently and causing pain.
It is also advisable to provide your dog with sufficient calcium. This mineral is an essential bone building block that also promotes dental health. It is usually sufficient to provide your four-legged friend with high-quality puppy food. It contains all the important ingredients that a growing dog needs.
Our insider tip:
Puppies' gums are often very itchy due to the change of teeth. Cool chews soothe the itching and are a good alternative to satisfy the need to chew. Our secret recipe: briefly freeze carrots or bananas (peeled) and offer them to the puppy to chew on. This is great for itchy gums!
Conclusion on the change of teeth in puppies
If you start this challenging time well informed with your four-legged friend, he will usually get through the change of teeth as a puppy well! Continue to ensure a balanced diet and keep an eye on your furry friend. If you notice any signs of inflammation or if your pet seems weak, you should visit the vet. This will largely prevent unpleasant long-term consequences.
Our recommendations for your four-legged friend:
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Frequently asked questions about changing teeth in puppies
Do puppies experience pain when changing teeth?
If the change of teeth proceeds without complications, the dog will not experience any pain. However, the puppy may feel itchy when changing teeth - because when the new teeth break through, the affected area may well be irritated. The dog will find relief by frequently chewing on toys, as well as items of clothing and furniture.
How can I make the change of teeth easier for the puppy?
The change of teeth in dogs often goes smoothly. However, you can still make this phase easier for your four-legged friend by taking certain measures. It is best not to encourage your furry friend to play tugging games - even fetching should be largely avoided - as puppies are often particularly sensitive when changing teeth. You can also counteract misaligned teeth by playing gently. It is best to use a chew toy during this time so that the dog can relieve its itching.
How do puppies behave when changing teeth?
In some puppies, you can recognise the change of teeth by the fact that they become more restless and chew more on objects. If the mouth is inflamed, the dog may not be able to sleep. In this case, the puppy should be taken to the vet when changing teeth.
How long does the change of teeth take in puppies?
The process usually takes place over a period of three months. In larger breeds, the change of teeth is usually completed a little quicker. If you suspect that your four-legged friend is having problems for too long, you should consult a vet.