Do Dogs Lose Baby Teeth

Do dogs lose baby teeth? is a very real question pet parents ask. Much like babies, puppies also go through a teething process. From those tiny, needle-like milk teeth to strong adult canines, your pup’s dental journey is both fascinating and important to their development. So, when do dogs lose their baby teeth? In this article, we’ll explore the difference between baby and adult teeth, signs your dog is teething, and how to support them through the process. Whether you’re dealing with a chewy puppy or an older dog showing signs of dental trouble, this guide will help you understand when dogs lose baby teeth, and what’s normal versus concerning.

Puppies are born without teeth, but they don’t stay gummy for long. Typically, their baby teeth—also called milk teeth—begin to emerge at around 2 to 4 weeks of age. These teeth are sharp and help them transition from nursing to eating soft foods.

So, when do dogs lose their puppy teeth? The full timeline looks like this:

• 2–4 weeks: Baby teeth (aka milk teeth) start to erupt.
• 3–6 months: The incoming adult teeth push out the baby teeth by absorbing their roots.
• 6+ months: Most dogs have a complete set of adult teeth—42 in total—by this time.

If you're wondering at what age do dogs lose teeth, the sweet spot is usually between 3 to 6 months old.

It’s not always obvious, but there are a few signs that your puppy is in the teething phase:

• Chewing more than usual – Your pup might chomp on toys, shoes, or even your fingers to soothe sore gums.
• Drooling and mild discomfort – Slight gum irritation can cause drooling and crankiness.
• Finding small teeth around the house – These tiny, rice-sized teeth often fall out while chewing or playing.

Remember, it’s all part of the process—yes, dogs lose their milk teeth, and it can get a little messy (but also kind of adorable).

So, should dogs lose teeth? For puppies, absolutely. Losing canine puppy teeth and the rest of their milk teeth is a completely normal part of growing up.

However, can dogs lose teeth as adults? That’s a different story. Tooth loss in adult dogs usually signals underlying issues like periodontal disease, injury, or poor dental hygiene. Spotting loose teeth in adult dogs should prompt a check-up with your vet.

That’s why preventative care is crucial—even from a young age. Starting early with the right dog dental treats can help build good habits and protect their pearly whites for the long haul.

Teething can be uncomfortable for your pup, so here’s how you can help:

• Provide safe chew toys – These help massage sore gums and keep them distracted from biting things they shouldn't.
• Avoid hard bones or unsafe objects – Anything too tough could damage those delicate incoming adult teeth.
• Start good dental habits early – Regular brushing and a healthy diet are key to long-term oral health.
• Choose healthy treats – While soft and chewable treats are best during teething, make sure they’re also nutritious. Look for low-fat, minimal-ingredient options that are gentle on developing teeth and tummies.

The healthier the treat, the better it supports overall well-being—even while they’re gnawing through the teething phase. Dental chews like KONG Ziggies Puppy Chews can also help reduce plaque buildup while soothing irritated gums.

Most dogs begin losing their baby teeth around 3 months old, with the process usually completed by 6 months.

Yes, typically the canine teeth—those sharp fang-like ones—are among the last to fall out. They’re often replaced between 5–6 months of age.

Yes, but it’s not normal. If an adult dog is losing teeth, it could be due to gum disease, trauma, or poor dental hygiene. It’s best to consult your vet if you notice this happening.

The teething process in puppies begins with the incisors and ends with the molars, usually between 12 to 24 weeks.

If adult teeth don’t come in after the baby teeth fall out—or worse, both sets are still there—your dog may need a vet visit. Retained baby teeth can lead to misaligned bites or future dental issues.