Quick answer: Puppies usually teethe from around 3 to 6 months of age. Offer soft, puppy friendly toys and appropriate chews, avoid anything very hard that could damage teeth, and supervise chewing. Redirect biting onto a toy instead of shouting.
When do puppies teethe?
Puppies are born without teeth, get baby teeth at a few weeks, and begin losing them around 3 to 4 months while adult teeth come through. Most have their adult teeth by about 6 to 7 months. During this time gums can be sore, and chewing helps. If you see retained baby teeth or bleeding that worries you, ask your vet.
What to give a teething puppy
- Soft toys with texture. Gentle chewing on soft toys can feel good. Try Dark Brown Canele or Banana Snuffle for small puppies.
- A frozen washcloth. Wet, twist and freeze a clean cloth for a cooling chew.
- Natural chews. A supervised chew like the Natural Seaweed Dog Bone can be a good option.
- Soft treats for training. Premium Lamb Liver is a soft, Level 1 treat suitable for training.
What to avoid
- Very hard items such as real bones, antlers and hard plastic, which can crack teeth.
- Anything small enough to swallow.
- Toys that fall apart quickly, unless you are supervising closely.
- Rawhide or items your vet advises against.
Saving your furniture
- Offer a toy as soon as your puppy goes for a shoe or table leg.
- Rotate toys to keep them interesting.
- Puppy proof the house and use a pen or crate when you cannot supervise.
- Make sure they get enough play, sleep and short walks.
Browse our puppy essentials collection. For older dogs who chew beds, see why dogs chew their beds.
Frequently asked questions
Is it normal for a puppy to bite everything?
Yes, mouthing and chewing are normal puppy behaviour. Consistent redirection helps.
How long does puppy teething last?
Usually until about 6 to 7 months, although chewing can continue as part of normal adolescence.
This article is general information, not veterinary advice.
