Where do dogs' teeth go when they fall out? - briefly
When a dog loses its baby teeth, known as deciduous teeth, they are typically swallowed or lost during play or chewing activities. Unlike humans, dogs do not keep their lost baby teeth; instead, new adult teeth erupt to replace them.
Where do dogs' teeth go when they fall out? - in detail
When puppies are born, they have no teeth at all. Within the first few weeks of their life, their baby teeth, also known as deciduous or milk teeth, begin to erupt. By the time they reach 3-4 months old, all 28 of these baby teeth should be in place. These baby teeth are temporary and will eventually fall out to make way for adult teeth.
The process of losing baby teeth and gaining adult teeth is a natural part of canine development, much like it is in humans. However, unlike humans who typically lose all their baby teeth by the age of 12 or 13, dogs start to lose their baby teeth around 4 months old and continue until they are about 6-7 months old.
When a dog's baby tooth falls out, it does not simply disappear into thin air. Instead, it is often swallowed or ingested by the dog. This might seem alarming at first, but it is a normal part of the canine teething process. The fallen tooth typically passes through the digestive system without causing any harm to the dog. In rare cases, a swallowed tooth might cause an intestinal blockage, especially if the dog has ingested multiple teeth or if there are other underlying health issues.
If you notice your puppy chewing on something and then suddenly stops, it's possible that they have lost one of their baby teeth. You might find the tooth on the floor, in their bedding, or even stuck to a toy they were playing with. It's also possible that you won't find the tooth at all because, as mentioned earlier, dogs often swallow their fallen baby teeth.
As adult teeth start to come in, it's important to provide your puppy with appropriate chew toys to help soothe their gums and encourage proper jaw development. Regular veterinary check-ups are also crucial during this time to ensure that the teething process is progressing normally and that there are no signs of dental issues or complications.
In conclusion, when dogs lose their baby teeth, they typically either fall out and can be found by the owner or are swallowed by the dog without causing any harm. This natural process helps make way for the adult teeth that will serve the dog throughout its life.