https://www.chewy.com/education/dog/general/how-many-teeth-do-dogs-have
Dogs have two sets of teeth in their lifetime: puppy teeth and adult teeth. Puppies are born without visible teeth, but their deciduous, or “milk teeth,” begin to erupt around 3 - 4 weeks of age. By the time they finish teething, they will have 28 sharp little teeth.
As they grow, those baby teeth fall out and are replaced by a complete set of 42 permanent adult teeth - 20 on the top and 22 on the bottom.
The exception to this is the Chow Chow, a breed that develops 44 adult teeth.
The process of losing puppy teeth and gaining adult teeth typically happens between 3 and 7 months of age, though the exact timing can vary by breed. Small dogs often get their adult teeth sooner than larger breeds, which may take up to 12 - 16 months to fully develop their permanent teeth.
Puppies lose all 28 of their baby teeth to make room for the larger, flatter adult teeth, which include incisors, canines, premolars, and molars. Occasionally, some baby teeth don’t fall out on their own - called retained deciduous teeth - which can cause overcrowding, abnormal bites, and dental disease if not treated by a veterinarian.
Once a dog has its adult teeth, those are permanent and will not grow back if lost. Dogs, like humans, can lose teeth later in life due to gum disease, decay, or injury.
Regular dental care - including brushing, dental chews, a balanced diet, and professional cleanings - helps prevent tooth loss and supports lifelong oral health. Monitoring for warning signs such as bad breath, bleeding gums, difficulty eating, or pawing at the mouth can also ensure dental problems are caught early and treated promptly.
A healthy smile means so much more than fresh breath – it is a window into a dog’s overall well-being and comfort. Every wag, every playful nibble, and every joyful bark is brighter when a pup’s teeth and gums are cared for with love.
This information is shared by Chewy editorial team to help every pet parent protect their dog’s dental health and keep those happy moments shining strong.
