Like human children, puppies lose their “baby” teeth at a certain point in their development. As a pet owner, you might wonder when puppies start to lose their baby teeth, and whether there are any health concerns you might need to be aware of during this process. At Taconic Veterinary Center, we’re as passionate about educating pet owners as we are about caring for their pets. Raising a healthy, happy puppy takes hard work and dedication, and our team is always happy to answer your questions and provide support through this stage of your pet’s life (and every stage after!). For more information about caring for your puppy or to make an appointment, contact our hospital in Cortlandt Manor, NY at (914) 737-2437.
Understanding Puppy Teething
Here are some important things to know about puppies losing their baby teeth.
The Teething Timeline
Puppies, just like human babies, go through a teething phase. Generally, puppies start losing their baby teeth around three to six months of age. This process is natural and necessary for the development of their adult teeth.
Signs of Teething
As a pet owner, you might notice your puppy engaging in chewing behavior more often during this time. They do this to relieve the discomfort of new teeth pushing through their gums. Common signs of teething include increased chewing, more frequent drooling, and occasionally, a little blood on their toys.
Handling Retained Baby Teeth
Sometimes, puppies may not lose all their baby teeth within the expected timeframe. If you notice that your dog still has come of their baby teeth past the point at which they should have lost them, don’t be alarmed! This can happen, and it doesn’t necessarily mean there is anything wrong with your pet. However, it is important to monitor these teeth and to let your veterinarian know, in case the teeth have to be manually removed in hospital.
Why It’s Important to Address Retained Teeth
Retained teeth can cause dental issues like misalignment or overcrowding (yes, dogs can develop orthodontic issues, too!). At Taconic Veterinary Center, we can assess your puppy’s dental health. If needed, we can safely remove any retained teeth they have, often during a spay/neuter or another anesthesia procedure. The retained teeth usually come out very easily, as they do not have deep roots like the adult teeth do.
Keep Up with Your Puppy’s Exams
Routine physical exams and dental checkups can help us monitor your puppy’s development and check for any retained baby teeth. Our team will also help you establish a dental care routine for your pet, which is vital to the prevention of dental disease and the early detection of any developing oral health problems.
Taconic Veterinary Center is Here to Help
Taconic Veterinary Center is equipped to provide thorough dental examinations and helpful dental care advice for your puppy. If you recently adopted a new four-legged family member, get in touch with us to schedule your puppy’s first appointment so we can cover all the essentials, including dentistry.
In addition to regular vet checkups, we can also provide you with a demonstration on how to brush your pet’s teeth. Teeth brushing is integral to your pet’s care and health, and it’s best to start early to prevent plaque and tartar buildup. Ask us for pet-friendly dental product recommendations!
Have Questions About Your Puppy’s Dental Health?
Puppy teething is a natural process, and understanding it can help you better care for your pet. Remember, regular dental checkups and proper at-home care are key to your puppy’s dental health. If you have any concerns or need guidance, our team at Taconic Veterinary Center is here to help. Give us a call at (914) 737-2437 to schedule an appointment or for more information.
