Puppy Teething Timeline: Stages, Signs & How to Help Your Pup

Just like human babies, puppies go through a teething phase — and it can be a real chew-mageddon! If you’re wondering why your pup has turned the table leg into their favourite snack or why they’re a little extra whingey, teething could be the culprit. This guide explores the puppy teething timeline so you’ll know what to expect and how to ease your furry friend’s discomfort along the way. At Petdirect, We Get Pet, so we're here to help you and your pup through every toothy milestone.

When Do Puppies Start Teething?

Most puppies start teething around 3 weeks of age, but that’s all happening while they're still with mum. Once your pup comes home, the real adventure begins. From around 6 to 8 weeks, their baby teeth (also called milk teeth) will be fully in. Then, somewhere between 12 and 16 weeks, the shedding starts to make room for adult teeth. And yes — that’s when the teething mischief really kicks in!

By 6 to 7 months old, most puppies will have their full set of 42 adult teeth — compared to 20 baby teeth. But during the teething phase, sore gums, drooling, and heavy-duty chewing are all completely normal. The key is to give them safe, soothing outlets instead of your shoes or the couch leg.

The Puppy Teething Timeline In Detail

• 3–6 weeks: Baby teeth come in; these are the tiny, super sharp ones.
• 6–8 weeks: Baby teeth are usually all in place — this is when you’ll start noticing their little chomps.
• 12–16 weeks: Baby teeth start falling out to make room for adult teeth.
• 6–7 months: Your pup’s adult teeth should finish growing in, completing the teething process.

Signs Your Puppy Is Teething

Every pup is different, but common signs they’re teething include:

• Increased chewing behaviour
• Red or swollen gums
• Blood spots on chew toys
• Whimpering or fussiness
• Slight loss of appetite

Remember, while teething brings mild discomfort, anything more severe like persistent bleeding, significant weight loss, or refusal to eat may be a reason to check in with your local vet.

How To Help Your Teething Puppy

Supporting your puppy through teething doesn't have to be hard work. Here are some top tips for soothing sore gums and saving your furniture in one go:

Offer Safe Teething Toys

Chewing provides natural relief for teething pain. Give your pup specially designed teething and chew toys to satisfy their instinct and protect your household belongings. Look out for frozen chew toys (popped in the freezer for extra relief) or rubber toys with soft textures.

Introduce Puppy-Friendly Treats

Cold treats or frozen puppy-safe options can help soothe inflamed gums. Just be sure they’re appropriate for your dog’s age and breed. Check out our selection of treats made for growing pups — tasty and functional!

Use Soothing Dental Products

There are gentle oral care supplies available that can help reduce discomfort during this stage. Look for puppy-friendly dental care products that are safe to use during teething and designed to promote future oral health.

Feed Proper Puppy Food

Nutrition matters during these formative months. A high-quality puppy food ensures your pup has the nutrients needed for strong, healthy teeth and bones. Brands like Royal Canin and Black Hawk offer food specially formulated for puppies.

Establish Good Habits Early

Now’s the perfect time to get your pup used to dental routines. Introduce gentle grooming essentials like finger brushes and start incorporating short sessions into your daily routine. They'll thank you later!

Products That Can Help During Teething

These Petdirect favourites are perfect to get your pup through the chewing phase in one piece:

• KONG puppy toys – High-quality, durable rubber for safe chewing
• Nylabone teething products – Designed just for soft puppy teeth
• Puppy training essentials – Training pads, toys, and more to keep your household harmonious
• Supplements for skin and coat support – Because health starts from the inside out
• Smart pet water fountains – Encourage hydration, especially as teething makes pups a bit droolier and thirstier

Final Woof: You’ve Got This!

Teething is a natural part of your puppy’s development, and while it comes with its fair share of drool and destruction, it also signals a healthy growing pup. With the right tools, toys, and treats, you can make the teething phase as smooth as possible (and possibly even save your shoes). Don’t forget to browse our Puppy Shop for all the essentials to keep your fur baby happy, healthy, and well-chewed-on — in the right way! And, if you haven't joined our Pet Perks programme yet, sign up to fetch exclusive rewards on your favourite teething must-haves.