Puppy Care Guide

🐶 When Puppies Start Teething

At around 3 to 4 months of age, your puppy may start biting, chewing, and gnawing on everything. Don’t worry — this is completely normal! Chewing helps relieve the pressure and itchiness caused by erupting adult teeth.

This marks the beginning of the teething stage — an important milestone in your puppy’s growth journey.

🦷 How Puppy Teeth Develop

Puppies are born without visible teeth. Around 3 weeks old, 28 baby teeth begin to emerge, which later fall out as 42 adult teeth take their place between 4 and 6 months.

The general order of appearance is:

• Incisors (front teeth)
• Canines (fangs)
• Premolars (behind the canines)
• Molars (back chewing teeth)

It’s fascinating — and sometimes uncomfortable — as your puppy’s mouth transforms for adulthood.

🪥 Oral Care During the Teething Phase

Teething can cause sore gums, mild inflammation, or drooling. Your puppy may chew more or lose appetite briefly — that’s okay! Here’s how to ease discomfort and start great habits:

Step 1. Gently Clean With Gauze or Soft Cloth

Get your puppy used to oral touch early (2–3 months). Use soft gauze or a gentle rubber brush to wipe teeth and gums. Keep it short and calm; praise afterward. The goal is comfort, not perfection.

Step 2. Transition to Puppy Toothbrush and Toothpaste

Once comfortable, switch to a dog toothbrush and dog-safe toothpaste (never human paste). Brush 1–2 times a week at first, increasing frequency over time. Early brushing prevents plaque, gum disease, and bad breath.

PetGo Shop | Oral Care Essentials

Keep your puppy’s smile healthy and their breath fresh with these vet-approved oral care kits. Start early to build habits that prevent plaque, gum disease, and bad breath.

Arm & Hammer Dog Dental Care Kit

Complete 3-piece set with toothpaste, toothbrush, and finger brush — perfect for freshening breath and reducing plaque safely for puppies.

$19.99

Buy on Amazon

Vet’s Best Toothbrush & Enzymatic Paste

Vet-formulated enzymatic toothpaste and triple-headed brush make cleaning faster, easier, and more effective — gentle enough for puppy gums.

$24.99

Buy on Amazon

💡 Today’s Tip

• Mild misalignment (underbite / overbite) is usually harmless; consult your vet only if advised.
• If a baby tooth doesn’t fall out, your vet may need to remove it to avoid infection or crowding.
• Offer safe teething toys or dental chews — they loosen baby teeth and strengthen gums.
• Swallowing a loose tooth is harmless and passes naturally.
• Mild gum bleeding is normal; if it lasts beyond 2–3 days, see your vet.

🪄 Extra PetGo Tips

• Keep multiple chew toys to redirect biting from furniture or hands.
• Use chilled wet cloths or puppy teething toys to soothe gums.
• Avoid hard bones or sticks — they can damage baby teeth.
• Brush gently after meals and reward calm cooperation.
• Watch for redness, odor, or tartar — early signs of dental issues that need attention.

❤️ Gentle Encouragement

Teething can make puppies cranky or overly mouthy — just like toddlers cutting teeth. Stay calm, redirect gently, and praise effort.

Every soothing touch and moment of patience builds trust. With consistency, your puppy will grow into a cheerful adult with strong, healthy teeth and a bright smile. 🦷✨