Persistent Deciduous Teeth (Baby Teeth) in Dogs | VCA Animal Hospitals

Ever Wondered How Many Sets of Teeth Your Pup Has? Here’s the Scoop!

Hey there, fellow pet parent! 🐾 Today, I’m diving into something that might’ve popped into your mind while watching your furball chomp down on their chew toy: How many sets of teeth do dogs have? And when do they get them?

Puppies and Their Milk Teeth: A Temporary Tale

You might’ve guessed it: Like us humans, dogs have two sets of teeth. But wait, there’s more! Puppies actually come into the world toothless, just like a little naked snowflake. 🌟

Fast forward a few weeks, and around three months of age, those adorable milk teeth start to pop through. 🦷 They usually all have their first set of 28 teeth by six weeks old. These are the primary, or deciduous, teeth that will eventually fall out as your pup grows.

The Big Change: Adult Teeth are Here to Stay

But don’t worry, they won’t be toothless forever! Around 3.5 to 4 months old, your furry friend will start losing their milk teeth and growing in their permanent teeth. 🙌 By six to seven months, most puppies will have all 42 of their adult teeth. And just like us, these teeth are here to stay!

Teething: A Challenging but Necessary Stage

Teething can be a tough time for puppies. 🙃 They might drool, be a bit grumpy, or even chew on things they shouldn’t. It’s important to provide them with safe chew toys to help soothe their sore gums and redirect their chewing instincts.

Persistent Teeth: When Things Go a Bit Wonky

Now, here’s something you might not have heard about: persistent teeth. 🦷 That’s when a milk tooth is still hanging around even after its permanent replacement has erupted. This can cause a variety of issues, like crowded teeth, misaligned bites, and even pain or infections.

What to Do if You Spot a Persistent Tooth

If you notice a persistent tooth in your pup’s mouth, it’s important to get it checked out by your vet. Sometimes, the tooth might need to be removed to make room for the adult tooth and prevent future dental issues.

Regular Check-Ups and Oral Care: Keeping Your Pup’s Smile Sparkling

To keep your furry friend’s smile healthy, regular check-ups and at-home dental care are crucial. Brushing their teeth regularly, providing dental chews, and feeding them a balanced diet can help prevent dental problems and keep your pup happy and healthy.

Need More Info? Ask Away!

So there you have it, the lowdown on a dog’s teeth and some common dental issues. Did you learn something new? Do you have more questions? I’m here to help! Drop your questions in the comments below, and I’ll be happy to answer them. 🐾

Remember, taking care of your pup’s dental health is just one part of being a great pet parent. Keep those paws on the ground and those hearts full of love! 💖