Puppies typically begin losing their baby teeth at around three to four months of age, and most have shed all 28 deciduous teeth by the time they reach six to seven months. If you have found a tiny tooth on the carpet or noticed a gap in your pup's smile, you are watching a completely normal milestone unfold. At Ark Naturals we field this question from new owners all the time, so let's walk through exactly when and how it happens.
Why puppies lose teeth at all
Those first little teeth, called deciduous or milk teeth, are placeholders. They are small and sharp because a young puppy's jaw is small, and they do the early work of weaning and play. As the jaw grows, it needs larger, sturdier permanent teeth. So the baby teeth loosen and fall out as the adult teeth rise up beneath them and take their place.
This is the same two-set system humans have. The difference is timing: what takes a child years happens for a dog in a matter of months.
The typical timeline
Here is the sequence most puppies follow, keeping in mind that individual dogs and breeds vary by a few weeks.
- Around 3 to 4 months: The incisors, the small front teeth, are usually first to loosen and drop out. New adult incisors follow close behind.
- Around 4 to 5 months: The canine teeth (the pointy ones) and premolars begin to give way to their adult counterparts.
- Around 5 to 6 months: The remaining premolars finish transitioning, and the adult molars, which have no baby predecessor, come in at the back.
- By 6 to 7 months: Most puppies have a complete set of 42 adult teeth.
Larger breeds sometimes run slightly later than smaller ones, so do not panic if your big-breed pup is on the tail end of these ranges.
What you might notice at home
Losing teeth is usually quiet. You may simply spot a gap one day or find a small tooth tucked in a chew toy. Some puppies have a tiny spot of blood-tinged drool, which is normal as a tooth detaches. Many pups swallow their baby teeth while eating, and that causes no harm.
During this stretch, chewing often ramps up. Sore gums drive puppies to gnaw, so this is a good moment to make sure your pup has safe, appropriate things to chew. The American Veterinary Medical Association's pet dental care resources are a helpful reference for understanding healthy mouths.
Helping your puppy through it
The most useful thing you can do is offer acceptable chew outlets and start building gentle handling habits. Lift your puppy's lip, touch the gums, and reward calm behavior. This makes future brushing and vet exams far easier.
Once your puppy passes 12 weeks of age, age-appropriate dental chews can join the routine. Our chews are made for dogs 12 weeks and up, so as your pup grows into the right size you can introduce a daily option. The Brushless Toothpaste chew is our everyday starter, and the Soft Brushless chew suits puppies who like a softer bite. Use the DENTA-METER on the pack to match the size to your dog's weight, and check with your veterinarian about timing.
Watch for retained baby teeth
One complication worth knowing is a retained deciduous tooth. This happens when a baby tooth does not fall out even though the adult tooth has already erupted, leaving two teeth crowded in one spot. Retained teeth can trap food and crowd the bite. They are most common in small and toy breeds.
If you see a doubled-up tooth, especially with the canines, mention it to your veterinarian. They will examine the mouth and advise whether anything needs to be done. This is a question for your vet rather than something to manage at home.
When to check in with your vet
Beyond retained teeth, a few signs deserve a call: bleeding that does not stop quickly, swelling of the gums or face, a tooth that looks broken, persistent strong breath odor, or a puppy who stops eating. Routine puppy wellness visits are the ideal time to have the developing mouth assessed, and your veterinarian can reassure you or step in if needed.
Looking ahead
Once the adult teeth are in, the focus shifts from teething to lifelong prevention. Plaque begins forming on teeth within hours of eating, so a consistent home routine of chewing and, ideally, brushing helps keep the new adult teeth in good shape. You can browse our full lineup in the shop all collection. We have been making USA-made dental chews with no artificial flavors or colors for over 25 years, and our Asta-Shield astaxanthin coating adds a source of antioxidant support.
Key takeaways
- Puppies start losing baby teeth around three to four months and finish by six to seven months.
- Incisors usually go first, then canines and premolars, with adult molars arriving last.
- Swallowed teeth and a little blood-tinged drool are normal.
- Retained baby teeth, common in small breeds, should be checked by your veterinarian.
- Age-appropriate dental chews can begin after 12 weeks, with your vet's okay.
Frequently asked questions
At what age do puppies lose their canine teeth?
The baby canine teeth usually fall out between about four and six months of age, with the adult canines erupting around the same time. If a baby canine is still present after the adult one appears, ask your veterinarian, as canines are a common spot for retained teeth.
How many baby teeth do puppies lose?
Puppies have 28 deciduous teeth, all of which are shed and replaced by 42 permanent adult teeth. You may only find a few of them, since many are swallowed harmlessly during eating.
Is bleeding normal when puppies lose teeth?
A small amount of blood-tinged saliva is normal as a tooth detaches. Bleeding that is heavy or does not stop quickly is not typical and should be discussed with your veterinarian.
My puppy is 7 months and still has a baby tooth. What should I do?
A baby tooth lingering past seven months, especially alongside an erupted adult tooth, may be retained. Schedule a visit so your veterinarian can examine it and recommend the right course of action.