Dog teeth go through many stages over their lifetime. From the moment your puppy’s baby teeth emerge to the arrival of their adult teeth and beyond, knowing what to expect makes it easier for you to spot potential problems. Let’s take a closer look at how a dog’s teeth change as they grow up, and what you can do to support good dental health.
Dog Dental Development by Age
From the first tiny “milk teeth” to a full adult set of chompers, each stage brings new changes. Here’s a breakdown of what to expect as your dog’s teeth grow in and mature:
- 2 to 4 weeks old: The baby teeth begin to erupt, usually starting with the incisors.
- 6 to 8 weeks old: All the baby teeth are usually in place, including canines and premolars.
- 12 to 16 weeks old: Puppy teeth begin to fall out as permanent teeth start coming in. You may notice increased chewing or mild discomfort.
- 6 to 7 months old: Most dogs have all of their adult teeth by this time. At this stage, regular tooth brushing and dental care should become part of your routine.
- 1 year and up: The adult teeth should be fully developed and healthy. Monitor your pet for signs of tartar buildup, gum disease, and cracked or broken teeth.
- 7+ years (senior dogs): Dental wear, tartar, and tooth loss become more common. Routine dental exams are especially important during these years.
When Do Puppies Lose Their Baby Teeth?
Puppies typically start losing their baby teeth around 12 to 16 weeks of age. As their permanent teeth begin to push through the gums, the baby teeth loosen and fall out, just like in children. It’s common to see a puppy chewing almost constantly during this “teething” phase to relieve their discomfort. You might even find a few tiny teeth on the floor or embedded in chew toys.
How Many Teeth Do Dogs Have?
Just like humans, dogs go through two sets of teeth in their lifetime. Puppies are born without teeth, but by about 3 weeks of age, their baby teeth begin to emerge. These temporary teeth, also known as deciduous teeth, include a total of 28 teeth.
As dogs grow, those baby teeth are gradually replaced by their adult teeth. By the time your dog is around 6 to 7 months old, they should have a full set of 42 permanent teeth. These include incisors, canines, premolars, and molars, and they are all designed for grabbing, tearing, and grinding.
Caring for Your Dog’s Teeth at Every Stage
No matter how old your dog is, good dental care is essential for preventing pain, tooth loss, and more serious health issues down the line. From teething puppies to aging seniors, building healthy habits early in life and adjusting care as your dog grows older can make a big difference to their health.
Here are some age-appropriate tips to help you keep your pet’s teeth clean and strong:
Puppy stage: Offer safe chew toys to soothe teething discomfort and discourage destructive chewing. Start getting your puppy used to having their mouth handled.
Adolescents (6 months – 1 year): Begin brushing their teeth regularly with dog-safe toothpaste. Make dental care a positive routine early on.
Adults (1 – 7 years): Maintain consistent brushing, provide dental chews and safe chew toys, and schedule annual dental checkups with your vet.
Seniors (7+ years): Watch for signs of dental disease like bad breath, drooling, or difficulty eating. More frequent dental cleanings may be needed at this stage.
Compassionate Veterinary Care for Dogs in Harker Heights
Supporting your dog’s oral health through each stage of tooth development is one of the best things you can do for their long-term wellness.
Understanding the different stages dog teeth go through allows you to keep ahead of potential issues, from teething challenges in puppies to tooth decay in senior dogs. Early attention to brushing, chewing habits, and regular vet visits can help prevent tooth pain and preserve that happy smile.
Not sure if your dog’s dental health is on track? Contact us today to schedule a checkup and get personalized advice for your pup’s dental care.
Images used under creative commons license – commercial use (08/08/2025) Photo by Helena Lopes on Unsplash