Instruction: how to know if a puppy is teething.

1. Recognizing Early Signs of Teething

1.1 Behavioral Changes

A puppy undergoing dental eruption often exhibits distinct behavioral shifts that differentiate normal development from other discomforts. Owners frequently observe an increase in mouthing activity; the animal will chew on toys, furniture legs, or even their own paws with greater intensity. This heightened oral exploration serves to relieve pressure on erupting incisors and can be measured by the frequency and duration of chewing bouts throughout the day.

Another common sign is irritability during handling of the mouth. A puppy may snap, growl, or withdraw when the owner attempts to brush teeth or examine the gums. This defensive response reflects sensitivity of the inflamed gingival tissue surrounding the emerging teeth.

Sleep patterns may also change. Puppies often nap more often but for shorter intervals, interspersed with periods of restlessness. Restlessness can manifest as pacing, whining, or an inability to settle in a preferred sleeping spot, indicating discomfort that intensifies during the night when saliva accumulation is greatest.

Appetite fluctuations are typical. A temporary reduction in food intake, or a preference for softer kibble, signals that the puppy is avoiding the pressure of chewing harder material. Conversely, some puppies increase their intake of water to soothe swollen gums.

Key behavioral indicators can be summarized:

Persistent chewing on inappropriate objects
Defensive reactions to mouth contact
Increased restlessness and disrupted sleep
Altered eating habits, favoring softer foods
Frequent drooling or pawing at the mouth

Recognizing these patterns enables timely intervention, such as providing appropriate chew toys and adjusting diet, to alleviate discomfort and support healthy dental development.

1.1.1 Increased Chewing

Veterinary professionals identify teething in puppies primarily through a noticeable rise in chewing activity. The emerging teeth create pressure on the gums, prompting the animal to seek relief by biting and gnawing on accessible items. This behavior intensifies between three and six weeks of age and peaks as the permanent incisors erupt.

Typical chewing targets include:

Soft toys that yield under pressure
Rawhide or frozen chew sticks that soothe inflamed gums
Household objects such as cords, shoes, or furniture legs
Natural materials like pine cones or untreated wood

Owners should monitor the duration and intensity of these sessions. Persistent, aggressive chewing, especially on non‑toy items, often signals discomfort from erupting teeth rather than boredom. Providing appropriate chewables reduces the risk of dental injury and redirects the puppy’s natural response to gum irritation.

1.1.2 Irritability or Whining

A puppy experiencing tooth eruption often exhibits heightened irritability. The discomfort caused by emerging incisors lowers tolerance for routine stimuli; even brief handling can provoke a sharp, vocal response. This behavioral shift is distinct from normal playfulness and may manifest as persistent whining when the animal is left alone or when its mouth is touched.

Key characteristics of teething‑related irritability include:

Sudden increase in whine frequency, especially during chewing or after attempting to bite a toy.
Restlessness that escalates when the puppy is confined to a crate or bedding.
Reluctance to accept treats that require chewing, accompanied by a brief, high‑pitched whine.
Quick escalation from mild growl to audible whine when pressure is applied to the gums.

Differentiating teething from other sources of distress involves observing context. If whining intensifies during periods of gum massage, chewing on appropriate toys, or after a cold night when the puppy seeks warmth, the likely cause is dental discomfort. Conversely, whining linked to hunger, fear, or illness typically follows a different pattern, such as occurring around feeding times or in response to unfamiliar sounds.

Management strategies:

Provide frozen chew toys to soothe inflamed gums; the cold reduces swelling and mitigates pain.
Offer soft, moist foods that require minimal chewing, reducing pressure on erupting teeth.
Schedule brief, gentle gum massages with a clean fingertip to alleviate tension.
Monitor the duration of whining; persistent, severe vocalization beyond the expected teething window warrants veterinary evaluation to rule out infection or injury.

Observing these irritability cues enables owners to identify teething early and implement supportive measures that ease the puppy’s transition through this developmental stage.

1.1.3 Loss of Appetite or Pickiness

Puppies undergoing dental eruption often show a noticeable decline in food intake. The discomfort caused by emerging incisors can make chewing painful, prompting the animal to reject its usual diet or become selective about texture and temperature. This behavior typically appears between three and six weeks of age and may persist for several days as each tooth breaks through the gum line.

Key observations include:

Reduced meal size or total refusal of meals for a period of 24‑48 hours.
Preference for soft, warm foods such as soaked kibble, canned puppy formula, or homemade broth‑based meals.
Increased chewing on toys, bones, or frozen cloths, indicating an attempt to alleviate gum soreness.
Occasional drooling or pawing at the mouth, which often coincides with the appetite change.

When loss of appetite is observed, confirm that the puppy is still drinking water and remains active. Dehydration or lethargy may signal complications requiring veterinary assessment. If the puppy continues to eat only soft foods, gradually reintroduce regular kibble by moistening it or offering smaller, manageable pieces to encourage normal chewing patterns.

To support a teething puppy through this phase:

Offer a variety of safe, chewable objects that are chilled but not frozen, reducing inflammation while providing relief.
Adjust feeding schedules to smaller, more frequent meals, minimizing the effort required to consume food.
Monitor weight daily; a stable or slowly increasing weight suggests the puppy is coping despite temporary pickiness.
Consult a veterinarian if appetite loss extends beyond three days, if vomiting occurs, or if the puppy shows signs of pain beyond normal teething discomfort.

Understanding that loss of appetite is a common, transient response to tooth eruption enables owners to respond promptly, maintain nutritional intake, and prevent unnecessary health concerns.

1.2 Physical Indicators

Physical signs of teething in a puppy appear within the first few weeks of life and become most evident between four and six months. Excessive drooling accompanies the eruption of each new tooth; the saliva is often clear and may contain small blood spots. The gums swell and turn pink to reddish, sometimes developing a visible ridge where a tooth is breaking through. A noticeable increase in chewing activity follows, with the animal targeting soft objects, toys, or even household items to alleviate pressure on the emerging teeth.

Puppies may also paw at their mouths or rub their faces against furniture, indicating discomfort localized to the oral region. The loss of deciduous (baby) teeth produces small, white, or slightly yellowish teeth that fall out easily; these may be found on the floor or in bedding. Appetite fluctuations occur as the puppy adjusts to the changing dental structure-some may briefly refuse hard kibble, preferring softened food, while others maintain normal intake.

The following checklist summarizes observable physical indicators:

Clear, abundant drool, sometimes tinged with blood
Swollen, reddened gums with a raised ridge at the tooth site
Frequent chewing of soft objects or toys
Pawing at the mouth or rubbing the face against surfaces
Presence of loose baby teeth on the ground or in bedding
Temporary change in food preference, favoring softer textures

Monitoring these signs enables owners to confirm that a puppy is undergoing the normal teething process and to provide appropriate relief measures.

1.2.1 Swollen Gums

Swollen gums are a reliable indicator that a young dog is undergoing the teething process. The inflammation appears as a noticeable puffiness along the gum line, often accompanied by a reddened hue. This condition results from the pressure exerted by emerging permanent teeth against the soft tissues of the mouth.

Key characteristics of teething‑related gum swelling include:

Localized puffiness: The affected area feels slightly raised compared to surrounding tissue.
Mild redness: The gum color shifts toward a pink‑to‑light‑red shade, reflecting increased blood flow.
Tenderness on touch: Gentle palpation elicits a brief flinch or slight resistance from the puppy.
Temporary nature: The swelling typically subsides within a few days as the tooth fully erupts.

Monitoring these signs helps differentiate normal teething inflammation from pathological conditions such as infection or trauma. If swelling persists beyond a week, intensifies, or is accompanied by pus, bleeding, or a foul odor, veterinary assessment is advisable to rule out secondary complications. Regular oral inspection, combined with appropriate chew toys and a balanced diet, supports healthy dental development and minimizes discomfort during this transitional stage.

1.2.2 Drooling

Drooling is a primary indicator that a puppy is undergoing dental eruption. Saliva production increases as incisors and canines push through the gum tissue, resulting in a visibly wet muzzle and occasionally damp bedding. The fluid is typically clear or slightly frothy, lacking blood or pus; any discoloration may signal infection rather than normal teething.

Key characteristics of teething‑related drooling:

Continuous flow rather than occasional dribbles.
Presence of softened gum edges that can be felt gently with a fingertip.
Increased interest in chewing objects, especially cold toys that soothe inflamed gums.
Absence of other systemic symptoms such as fever, lethargy, or loss of appetite.

Management strategies:

Provide safe chewables designed for teething puppies to reduce excessive saliva buildup.
Keep the dog’s feeding area and bedding clean and dry to prevent skin irritation.
Monitor the drool for changes in color or consistency; consult a veterinarian if blood, pus, or a foul odor appears.
Offer fresh water frequently to encourage swallowing and limit stagnation around the mouth.

Observing drooling in conjunction with gum tenderness and heightened chewing behavior reliably confirms that the puppy is in the dental development phase.

1.2.3 Visible Gaps in Teeth

Visible gaps between a puppy’s incisors, canines, or premolars are a reliable indicator that the animal is in the teething phase. When deciduous teeth begin to loosen, the surrounding gum tissue retracts slightly, creating a narrow space that can be seen when the mouth is opened gently. The gap is most apparent on the upper front teeth, where the smaller primary incisors are replaced by larger permanent ones.

Owners should examine the puppy’s mouth once or twice daily, using a soft light and a clean finger or a soft veterinary‑grade swab. If a clear separation of 1-2 mm is observed between adjacent teeth, the eruption of permanent dentition is likely occurring. The presence of multiple gaps, especially in the same dental quadrant, strengthens the assessment.

Key observations related to visible gaps:

Gap appears gradually over several days, not as an abrupt loss of a tooth.
Surrounding gum may show mild redness but no excessive bleeding.
Gaps are symmetrical; both sides of the jaw exhibit similar spacing.
The puppy may exhibit increased chewing behavior, attempting to relieve pressure on the loosening teeth.

When gaps are identified, maintain oral hygiene with a soft brush and monitor for signs of infection, such as swelling or pus. If gaps widen rapidly, cause pain, or are accompanied by fever, consult a veterinarian promptly.

1.2.4 Finding Puppy Teeth

When assessing whether a young dog is beginning the teething phase, the first observable sign is the emergence of its deciduous (baby) teeth. These teeth appear in a predictable sequence and can be identified through gentle visual and tactile examination.

The primary set consists of 28 teeth: incisors at the front, canines beside them, and premolars toward the back of each jaw. They erupt in the following order:

Central incisors (upper and lower) - appear between 2‑3 weeks of age.
Lateral incisors - follow shortly after the centrals.
Canine teeth - emerge around 3‑4 weeks.
First premolars - visible by 4‑5 weeks.
Second premolars - complete the set by 6‑8 weeks.

To locate these teeth, gently lift the puppy’s lip and inspect the gum line. The crowns are small, white, and slightly rounded. Use a soft fingertip or a clean cloth to feel for the tiny protrusions; they should not cause pain if the puppy is not yet experiencing discomfort.

If the gums appear swollen, reddened, or the puppy exhibits excessive chewing behavior, these signs often accompany the eruption of the teeth. Documenting the timing and order of tooth emergence helps differentiate normal development from potential dental issues that may require veterinary attention.

2. Timeline of Puppy Teething Stages

2.1 Deciduous Teeth Eruption (Milk Teeth)

Puppies are born without teeth; the first set of deciduous, or milk, teeth appears during the early weeks of life. The eruption process follows a predictable schedule, beginning around three weeks of age and completing by the end of the eighth week. Incisors emerge first, followed by canines and premolars, each group appearing at intervals of two to three days.

Visible changes accompany each stage. Small, white crowns break through the gum surface, initially causing mild swelling. The gums may appear pinker and slightly irritated where the teeth are emerging. As the teeth fully emerge, they become discernible as tiny, sharp structures arranged in the characteristic canine‑premolar pattern.

Behavioral cues often signal active eruption. Puppies increase their tendency to chew on soft objects, exhibit heightened interest in toys, and may gnaw on blankets or owners’ fingers. Excessive drooling and occasional pawing at the mouth are common responses to the pressure of new teeth breaking through the gum tissue.

Key indicators of deciduous teeth eruption:

Presence of tiny, white crowns in the front and side of the mouth
Reddened or swollen gums around emerging teeth
Increased chewing activity on non‑toxic items
Elevated saliva production and occasional mouth pawing
Occasional reluctance to eat hard kibble during peak eruption days

Monitoring these signs enables owners to confirm that teething is underway and to adjust care accordingly. Providing appropriate chew toys, ensuring soft, nutritionally balanced food, and keeping the puppy’s mouth clean reduce discomfort and support healthy development of the milk teeth.

2.2 Permanent Teeth Eruption

Puppies begin replacing their deciduous (baby) teeth with permanent dentition at approximately four to six months of age. The process follows a predictable sequence: incisors emerge first, followed by canines, premolars, and finally molars. By nine months most breeds have a complete set of permanent teeth, although large breeds may continue erupting until twelve months.

During permanent eruption the gum tissue swells and may bleed slightly. Puppies often increase chewing activity to alleviate discomfort, and they may seek out harder objects such as toys, bones, or furniture edges. Saliva production rises, leading to a damp mouth and occasional drooling.

Observable indicators of this stage include:

Persistent gnawing on non‑toy items
Red or inflamed gums around emerging teeth
Small white specks (new teeth) visible through the gum line
Slightly increased appetite or preference for softer foods
Occasional pawing at the mouth or rubbing the face against objects

If the eruption proceeds normally, the puppy will develop a full set of adult teeth without gaps. Persistent swelling, excessive bleeding, or failure of teeth to appear within the expected timeframe warrants veterinary examination to rule out retained baby teeth or developmental anomalies. Regular dental checks during routine wellness visits help ensure that the transition to permanent dentition proceeds smoothly.

3. Differentiating Teething from Other Issues

3.1 Illness Symptoms vs. Teething Symptoms

Puppies experience a predictable set of changes when their deciduous teeth emerge. Common signs include increased chewing on objects, swollen or tender gums that may appear red, occasional drooling, and brief periods of irritability that improve after a nap or a chew session. The discomfort typically peaks for a few days per tooth and resolves without fever, loss of appetite, or systemic signs.

Illness can produce symptoms that resemble teething but are accompanied by additional indicators. Fever, persistent lethargy, vomiting, diarrhea, or a marked decrease in food and water intake suggest infection or other medical conditions. Gums may look inflamed, yet the inflammation is often accompanied by pus, ulceration, or bleeding that does not subside after chewing. Respiratory noises, nasal discharge, or coughing are unrelated to dental development.

Key differences

Temperature - Normal during teething; elevated in illness.
Appetite - Slightly reduced during teething, often unchanged; significantly reduced or absent with disease.
Digestive signs - None in teething; vomiting or diarrhea indicate pathology.
Duration - Teething discomfort lasts a few days per tooth; illness symptoms persist or worsen over several days.
Systemic signs - Lethargy and fever are absent in pure teething; present with infection or other health issues.

When uncertainty remains, a veterinary assessment is the safest course to rule out underlying disease.

3.2 Age-Related Behaviors

Puppies enter the teething phase typically between three and six weeks of age, with observable changes that correlate closely to developmental milestones. Recognizing these age‑related behaviors enables owners to differentiate normal growth from discomfort caused by emerging teeth.

During the early weeks, puppies begin to explore objects with their mouths. This exploratory chewing intensifies as the incisors erupt, manifesting as:

Persistent gnawing on toys, furniture, or hands
Increased drooling, especially after contact with cold or hard surfaces
Pawing at the mouth or rubbing the chin against objects
Noticeable swelling or redness of the gum line
Temporary reluctance to accept hard kibble, favoring softened food or water

By the fourth to fifth week, irritability often rises. Puppies may exhibit restlessness, frequent waking, or brief bouts of whining, reflecting mild pain. These signs typically subside as the adult teeth complete eruption around eight to twelve weeks.

Monitoring the progression of these behaviors provides a reliable framework for assessing teething status. Early intervention-offering appropriate chew items and adjusting diet texture-mitigates discomfort and supports healthy oral development.

4. Providing Comfort and Support During Teething

4.1 Teething Toys and Chews

Choosing appropriate teething toys and chews is essential for a puppy experiencing dental eruption. Safe options are constructed from non‑toxic rubber, silicone, or natural fibers; they must resist breaking into small fragments that could be swallowed. Toys with varied textures stimulate gum massage, reduce discomfort, and encourage proper chewing habits.

Key characteristics to evaluate include:

Firmness that matches the puppy’s age and bite strength.
Size large enough to prevent accidental ingestion.
Absence of sharp edges or loose parts.
Easy cleaning, either dishwasher‑safe or capable of thorough hand washing.

Hard chew treats, such as frozen beef tendon sticks or freeze‑dried liver bites, provide prolonged relief. Softer alternatives, like plush toys with embedded squeakers, should be monitored to ensure durability. Rotating a selection of toys keeps interest high and distributes wear evenly, reducing the risk of premature damage.

Regular inspection before each use detects cracks, splinters, or wear that could compromise safety. Discard any item showing signs of deterioration. Maintaining a clean, varied set of teething aids supports healthy oral development and minimizes destructive chewing on household items.

4.2 Cold or Frozen Treats

Cold or frozen treats are a practical tool for assessing and soothing a puppy’s teething process. When a puppy gnaws on a chilled item, the reduction in gum inflammation often encourages the animal to bite, providing a clear indicator that the incisors are emerging. Observe the puppy’s behavior: persistent chewing on objects, drooling, and occasional whimpering while biting suggest active dental eruption.

To implement this method safely, follow these guidelines:

Choose food‑grade items such as plain yogurt, unsweetened applesauce, or low‑sodium broth frozen in ice‑cube trays.
Ensure the treat is free of additives, spices, or artificial sweeteners that could irritate the digestive system.
Offer the frozen piece for short periods (2‑3 minutes) and monitor the puppy’s reaction; excessive lingering may indicate discomfort beyond normal teething.
Replace the treat if it fragments or becomes too hard, preventing potential tooth damage.

Incorporating cold treats alongside other supportive measures-such as appropriate chew toys and regular dental checks-creates a comprehensive approach to recognizing and managing the teething stage in young dogs.

4.3 Pain Relief Options (Consult Your Vet)

When a young dog begins to chew excessively, gnawing on toys, or shows signs of discomfort, it is often a sign that the eruption of permanent teeth has started. Pain management at this stage should be guided by a veterinarian, who can assess the severity of discomfort and rule out underlying conditions such as infection or dental trauma.

Effective relief strategies typically include:

Prescription analgesics: Non‑steroidal anti‑inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) formulated for canine use reduce inflammation and alleviate pain. Dosage and duration must follow the vet’s instructions to avoid gastrointestinal or renal complications.
Topical anesthetics: Gels containing lidocaine or benzocaine can be applied to the gums for short‑term soothing. Veterinary supervision ensures proper concentration and prevents oral irritation.
Nutritional supplements: Omega‑3 fatty acids and glucosamine may support oral health and reduce inflammation, but should be introduced under professional guidance to avoid excess caloric intake.
Cold therapy: A chilled, wet gauze or a frozen chew toy (soft enough to avoid damaging teeth) provides temporary numbing. Supervision prevents choking or tooth fracture.

The veterinarian may also recommend a dental examination to monitor tooth development, address any misalignment, and prescribe a tailored pain‑relief plan. Prompt consultation prevents chronic discomfort and promotes healthy chewing behavior during the teething phase.

4.4 Protecting Your Home

A teething puppy will chew aggressively, often targeting furniture, cords, and household items. This behavior creates immediate risks: damaged property, exposed electrical wires, and potential ingestion of harmful materials. Managing these hazards requires a systematic approach that eliminates attractive chew sources and secures vulnerable areas.

Inspect all accessible surfaces; remove or cover wooden legs, plastic toys, and loose fabrics that mimic the texture of teeth.
Install protective sleeves on electrical cords, route them behind furniture, or use conduit boxes to prevent bites.
Apply pet‑safe deterrent sprays to baseboards, door frames, and other preferred chewing zones; reapply according to manufacturer guidance.
Provide a rotation of appropriate chew toys with varying textures; replace worn items promptly to maintain interest.
Use baby gates or playpens to confine the puppy to a designated, puppy‑proofed room during unsupervised periods.
Store shoes, socks, and small objects in closed containers; keep trash cans with secure lids.

Regularly observe the puppy’s chewing patterns. When the animal focuses on specific household components, adjust the protective measures accordingly. Consistent supervision combined with these safeguards reduces damage and promotes a safe environment throughout the teething stage.

5. When to Consult a Veterinarian

5.1 Excessive Bleeding

Excessive bleeding from a puppy’s gums is a critical indicator when evaluating the teething stage. Normal teething may cause minor gum irritation and occasional light spotting, but bleeding that is profuse, persistent, or accompanied by swelling suggests an underlying problem that requires immediate attention.

Physiological bleeding is limited to small drops after a chew toy or a new tooth breaking through. Pathological bleeding appears as bright red streams, clots, or continuous oozing, and may be linked to infection, trauma, or dental disease rather than the normal eruption process.

Key observations that differentiate normal from abnormal bleeding include:

Blood volume exceeding a few drops per chewing episode
Bleeding lasting longer than a few minutes without clotting
Presence of foul odor or pus in the oral cavity
Redness, swelling, or ulceration of the gums
Behavioral changes such as reluctance to eat or excessive pawing at the mouth

When excessive bleeding is detected, the following steps are recommended:

Apply gentle pressure with a clean, damp cloth to control the flow.
Inspect the mouth for visible wounds, broken teeth, or foreign objects.
Restrict access to hard chew items until a veterinarian evaluates the condition.
Contact a veterinary professional within 24 hours, or sooner if the bleeding is rapid or the puppy shows signs of distress.
Follow the veterinarian’s treatment plan, which may involve dental cleaning, antibiotics, or pain management.

Monitoring gum health alongside other teething signs-such as increased chewing, drooling, and mild discomfort-provides a comprehensive picture of the puppy’s development and helps identify when bleeding deviates from the expected physiological response. Prompt veterinary intervention prevents complications and supports healthy dental progression.

5.2 Persistent Pain or Refusal to Eat

Puppies experiencing teething often exhibit continuous discomfort that can manifest as a marked decline in appetite. When the pain persists for several days and the animal consistently rejects food, the underlying cause is likely dental eruption rather than a temporary upset stomach.

Key indicators of persistent oral pain include:

Reluctance to chew even soft kibble or wet food.
Drooling that is excessive and appears sour or bloody.
Pawing at the mouth or rubbing the face against objects.
Audible whining or whimpering during meals.

If a puppy refuses to eat for more than 24-48 hours, rule out gastrointestinal illness first. Once other health issues are excluded, consider teething as the primary factor. Provide foods that require minimal chewing, such as softened kibble mixed with warm water or a small amount of plain, low‑fat yogurt. Offer chilled, non‑toxic chew toys to soothe inflamed gums and encourage gentle biting.

Monitor weight and hydration closely. A drop in body condition or signs of dehydration demand immediate veterinary evaluation, as prolonged nutrient deficiency can hinder growth and development. In most cases, the discomfort resolves as the teeth break through, but persistent refusal to eat beyond a few days should be addressed promptly to prevent secondary complications.

5.3 Retained Deciduous Teeth

A retained deciduous tooth is a baby tooth that fails to fall out when the permanent canine or premolar is ready to emerge. In a teething puppy, such a tooth often remains embedded in the gum, causing localized pain, swelling, or disrupted chewing patterns.

Typical indicators of a retained baby tooth include:

Persistent focal inflammation around a single tooth
Red or bluish discoloration of the surrounding gingiva
Unusual wear on the opposite side of the mouth as the puppy compensates
Audible clicking or popping when the dog bites down
Visible gap between the retained tooth and neighboring permanent teeth

Veterinarians confirm the condition by visual inspection and, when necessary, radiographic imaging. X‑rays reveal the position of the underlying permanent tooth and whether it is blocked by the retained deciduous tooth. If the permanent tooth is unable to erupt, the baby tooth should be extracted to prevent malocclusion, infection, or chronic discomfort.

When owners suspect a retained baby tooth, they should:

Observe the puppy’s chewing behavior for signs of avoidance or uneven pressure.
Examine the oral cavity for discoloration or swelling.
Schedule a veterinary appointment promptly to obtain a definitive diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Early removal of a retained deciduous tooth typically resolves pain, restores normal bite alignment, and supports healthy dental development throughout adulthood.