When do dogs' teeth erupt? - briefly
Dogs begin teething at around 3-4 weeks of age, with incisors and canines appearing first. By 8 weeks, most puppies have their full set of deciduous (baby) teeth, which are then replaced by permanent teeth starting at 12-16 weeks.
When do dogs' teeth erupt? - in detail
Dogs, like humans, undergo two distinct phases of tooth eruption during their development. The first phase occurs when puppies are born with no visible teeth, a condition known as edentulous. This initial phase is crucial for their survival and growth, as they depend solely on their mother's milk for nourishment.
At approximately 2-4 weeks of age, the deciduous or "baby" teeth begin to erupt. This process starts with the incisors, both upper and lower, followed by the canines at around 3-5 weeks. The premolars make their appearance between 4-6 weeks, while the molars are among the last to erupt, typically around 8 weeks. By the time a puppy reaches 8 weeks old, it has a complete set of 28 deciduous teeth.
The second phase of tooth eruption commences when puppies are between 3-4 months old. During this period, the permanent or "adult" teeth start to replace the deciduous ones. The incisors are the first to be replaced, followed by the canines and premolars. This process continues until the dog is approximately 6-7 months old, at which point it has a complete set of 42 adult teeth.
It is essential to note that the eruption timeline may vary slightly among different breeds of dogs. However, this general pattern applies to most canines. Proper oral care and regular veterinary check-ups are crucial during these phases to ensure healthy tooth development and prevent potential dental issues.