When Does a German Shepherd Stop Teething? (Full Timeline)

If you’re the proud owner of a German Shepherd, then you know that they are an incredibly loyal and intelligent breed. But did you know your pup will go through a teething stage just like babies? It can be challenging to manage their chewing behavior during this period and understand why they’re doing it.

In this blog post, we'll discuss when a German Shepherd (also known as lands sharks) stops teething and how to help them through it. We'll cover topics such as what age puppies start teething, how long puppy teething last, and also provide tips on coping with the inevitable destruction caused by their sharp little teeth!

So if you want to learn more about German Shepherds and their teething process, read on. It's time to discover the mystery behind this behavior!

Let's see first why teething is actually popular among German Shepherds.

German Shepherds are known to undergo the teething process just like human babies. Teething is an integral part of a puppy's development and helps them transition from baby teeth to adult teeth.

During this time, German Shepherds will often be seen chewing and gnawing on objects to help soothe their gums and ease the pain of new teeth coming in. Puppies may even chew on themselves or others during this period as a way to cope with the discomfort they are experiencing.

Now let's move to the critical question - when does teething start and stop for German Shepherds?

Most German Shepherds start teething around 3–4 months old, typically lasting until they are 6 months old. During this time, their baby teeth will slowly fall out and be replaced by adult teeth. At 6 months, all 42 of the German Shepherd's permanent teeth should have erupted, and the teething period will be over.

Once their permanent teeth are in, your pup's teething behavior should subside. However, they may still chew on items to help keep their teeth clean and healthy.

It is essential to understand the teething process of German Shepherds to prepare for it and ensure your puppy is comfortable and safe during this time. Knowing the teething process will help you be better prepared for destruction and ensure your pup has a happy and healthy transition from baby to adult teeth.

German Shepherd teething symptoms

When German Shepherds start teething, they may show some telltale signs and symptoms of discomfort. Some of the most common issues include excessive drooling, increased chewing on items, and even biting or nipping at people or furniture.

They might also be more irritable than usual as their gums become sore from the new teeth pushing through. Additionally, your pup may refuse to eat solid foods during this period due to sensitivity in their mouths.

Here are the 10 most common signs of German Shepherd teething:

1. Excessive Drooling
2. Chewing or Gnawing on Furniture and Objects
3. Biting or Nipping at People or Things
4. Refusal to Eat Solid Foods
5. Irritability
6. Red Gums Around Toothy Grin Area
7. Unusual Pawing at the Face and Mouth Area
8. Bleeding from Gums When Teething Begins
9. Increased Salivation and Swallowing Movements
10. Loss of Appetite

Excessive Drooling

One of German Shepherds' most common signs of teething is excessive drooling. Increased salivation happens because their gums become irritated and swollen with new teeth erupting.

It's normal for German Shepherds to be extra drooly during this period, but if it persists for more than a few days, it's best to take them to the vet for an evaluation.

If your dog is drooling a lot because of teething, there are some things you can do to help. Give them toys or chews made for puppies and safe to chew on.

This will help soothe their gums and reduce drooling. You can also give them special treats or food designed for teething puppies that are cold and hard to chew on, which can help reduce drooling.

Chewing or Gnawing on Furniture and Objects

German Shepherds may also have an increased urge to chew and gnaw on furniture and objects while teething. This is because the pressure in their mouth helps alleviate some discomfort.

It is essential to be prepared for this behavior and have plenty of safe chew toys for your pup to gnaw on. Giving them treats and edible chews can also help reduce teething discomfort.

If your little land shark loves to chew everything during this period, especially furniture, these tips may help teach your German Shepherd what he can chew and what not.

1. Provide your puppy with plenty of chew toys and treats that are safe for them to gnaw on.

2. Monitor their behavior closely and redirect them to their toys when they start chewing furniture or objects in the house.

3. Make sure all furniture, cords, and other items you don’t want to be chewed are out of reach from your pup (if it's possible).

4. If you catch your pup chewing something inappropriate, spray it with a taste deterrent like bitter apple so they won’t be tempted by the same item again.

5. Reward good behavior with positive reinforcement, such as verbal praise or treats, when they choose an appropriate toy instead of furniture to play with or chew on.

6. Train your German Shepherd using commands such as “leave it” or “drop it” if necessary to help them understand which items are off-limits for chewing purposes.

7. Use distractions such as squeaky toys or engaging games to distract them from anything they could damage due to teething behaviors/chewing tendencies.

8. Show patience towards your pup during this process- keep in mind that teething is uncomfortable and can cause irritation leading pups to act out or chew for relief.

Biting or Nipping at People or Things

German Shepherds may also bite and nip at people, furniture, and even themselves as they undergo teething. This is because they try to soothe their sore gums and mouth in any way possible.

It is crucial to be prepared for this behavior and to train your pup not to bite. You can do this by using positive reinforcement training and providing plenty of chew toys or treats that are safe for them to gnaw on.

When your puppy starts biting, you should remain calm and give a firm “no” each time they do it. Give them a chew toy or treat as an alternative and reward them when they choose the appropriate item over people or things.

It is also essential to be consistent with your training. You must remember that teething can be uncomfortable for puppies and express patience and understanding during this difficult time.

Refusal to Eat Solid Foods

Puppies may also refuse to eat solid foods while teething. Their gums are sore, and chewing pressure may be painful.

If this happens, you should try softening the food with warm water or gravy to make it more palatable for your pup. You can also give them bland puppy food that is easier to chew, such as canned food.

If your puppy refuses to eat solid food, it’s best to consult a veterinarian. They may be able to recommend special foods or supplements that can help soothe teething discomfort and encourage your pup to eat again.

Irritability

Teething can make puppies irritable as they transition from puppyhood to adulthood. This is due to the discomfort and changes in their diet during this period.

If your pup is extra grouchy or moody, it may help to provide them with plenty of chew toys that are safe for teething. You should also practice positive reinforcement training and reward them when they show good behavior.

If your puppy’s irritability persists, you should consult your vet. They may be able to recommend supplements or medications that can help ease their discomfort and improve their mood.

Red Gums Around Toothy Grin Area

If your pup’s gums are red and swollen, it could be a sign of teething. The new teeth may push against their gums as they break through.

To soothe this discomfort, you can give them frozen items such as washcloths or towels that have been soaked in cold water. This can help numb their gums and provide temporary relief.

You should also monitor your pup’s chewing habits and ensure they’re not biting anything that could cause further irritation or damage to their teeth and gums. If necessary, use a taste deterrent such as a bitter apple to discourage them from chewing on inappropriate items.

It is also essential to be patient with your pup during this time and take extra care when brushing their teeth or touching their gums. If the redness persists, it’s best to consult a veterinarian for further advice.

Unusual Pawing at the Face and Mouth Area

If your pup begins pawing at its face and mouth area, it may be due to teething. This is because the new teeth push against the gums, causing discomfort.

If you notice this behavior, it’s best to provide them with plenty of chew toys or treats that are safe for teething. This can help soothe their gums and distract them from pawing at their face.

You should also refrain from reprimanding your pup for this behavior. Teething is uncomfortable and challenging, so understanding and patience are essential during this period.

If the pawing persists, consult your veterinarian for further advice on soothing teething discomfort. They may be able to recommend special foods or supplements that can help ease the pain and make your pup more comfortable.

Bleeding from Gums When Teething Begins

If your pup begins to bleed from the gums when teething, it could be due to a lack of proper dental care. Puppies need regular brushing and cleaning to keep their teeth and gums healthy while growing new teeth.

Regularly brush your pup’s teeth with a soft-bristled toothbrush and dog-safe toothpaste to prevent this discomfort. You should also feed them crunchy kibble to help keep their teeth clean and their gums healthy.

If you notice your pup’s gums bleeding, consult your veterinarian for further advice on proper dental care. They may be able to recommend toothpaste or supplements that can help soothe teething discomfort and keep their teeth healthy.

Increased Salivation and Swallowing Movements

If your pup is drooling excessively and making swallowing motions, it could be a sign of teething. This is because the new teeth press against their gums, causing discomfort.

To soothe this discomfort, provide your pup with plenty of chew toys that are safe for teething. You can also give them frozen items, such as washcloths or towels soaked in cold water. This can help numb their gums and provide temporary relief.

It's also essential to monitor your pup’s other behaviors during this time, such as biting on inappropriate items. Use a taste deterrent such as a bitter apple to discourage them from chewing on these items if necessary.

If the saliva and swallowing increase, please consult your veterinarian for further advice.

Loss of Appetite

If your pup begins to lose its appetite, it may be due to teething. This is because the new teeth can press against their gums and cause discomfort, which can decrease hunger.

To encourage them to eat, provide soft foods or easy treats on their gums. If they still refuse to eat, try offering them wet food or a tasty kibble that is easy to chew.

You can also give them frozen items such as washcloths or towels soaked in cold water. This may help numb their gums and provide temporary relief. If the appetite loss persists, please consult your veterinarian for further advice.

How long does German Shepherd teething last?

The teething phrase in German Shepherd dogs typically begins when puppies are around 4-6 months old and can last up to 8-10 months. After this period, their baby teeth should be replaced with adult teeth.

It's crucial to provide your pup with plenty of chew toys and treats during this period for teething relief. Brushing their teeth regularly and monitoring their behaviors closely to ensure optimal dental health is also essential.

Months and weeks	Process
3 - 4 weeks	Milk teeth start to grow in, starting with the incisors
4 - 6 weeks	The baby canines and premolars erupt, signaling the end of the nursing stage and allowing your puppy to begin to eat solid foods
6 - 8 weeks	It can take up to 8 weeks for all baby teeth to breach the surface
12 - 16 weeks	The milk teeth will begin to fall out starting with the incisors
4 - 5 months	The canines will fall out and the adult incisors will start to breach the surface
6 months	Most if not all baby teeth should have fallen out
6 - 8 months	The rest of the adult teeth will grow in by about 8 months

Source: Homes Alive Pets

When do German Shepherds lose their baby teeth?

German Shepherds typically begin to lose their baby teeth at around 4-6 months of age. By 8-10 months, all their baby teeth should have been replaced with adult teeth.

The process of replacing baby teeth with adult teeth is known as exfoliation. During the teething period, the adult teeth start to develop and push the baby teeth out. This process usually starts when puppies are around 4-6 months old and can last up to 8-10 months.

Exfoliation begins in the back of the mouth, with the molars and premolars. Then it moves forward in a wave until all the baby teeth have been replaced by adult ones.

At what age does a German Shepherd stop chewing?

German Shepherds usually stop chewing at around 12-18 months of age, after they have finished their teething phase. During the teething period, their baby teeth are replaced with adult ones.

Does this mean that German Shepherds will completely stop to chew once they become 18 months old? Not.

German Shepherds during this period will chew more when they're adult dogs, which is typical for dogs.

Chewing is a natural behavior for dogs that helps keep their teeth clean and healthy and provides mental stimulation. Chewing also releases endorphins in the brain, which acts as a natural pain reliever.

This explains why all dogs love to chew things – instinctive behavior makes them feel relaxed and happy.

What age is German Shepherd teething the worst?

German Shepherd teething is usually the worst between 14-20 weeks when getting baby teeth and between 6-8 months when they start changing baby teeth with adult teeth.

During this period, puppies might become irritable and start to chew on whatever they can reach. Their gums will be extra sensitive, so it is essential to provide them with appropriate chew toys and treats for relief.

How to help your German Shepherd during the teething process?

The teething process can be painful and uncomfortable for a German Shepherd, so taking extra care of our dog during this period is essential.

If you want to reduce the discomfort and pain of your German Shepherd during the teething process, here are a few steps that you can follow and implement immediately.

1. Provide chew toys and treats to relieve pain: Provide your pup with chew toys and treats specifically designed for teething puppies to help relieve the pain in their gums. Make sure that toys are soft (specially designed for chewing).

2. Use cold items, such as washcloths soaked in cold water, for temporary relief: You can use cold items, such as washcloths soaked in cold water or baby teething rings, to help your pup feel better. The object's coldness can temporarily relieve the pain and discomfort caused by teething.

3. Monitor their behaviors: Keep a close eye on your pup’s behavior during teething. If you notice any signs of distress or discomfort, take them to the vet for a check-up, and feel free to ask for help.

4. Brush your dog’s teeth regularly: Brushing your German Shepherd's teeth regularly is essential during teething. This helps prevent plaque and tartar buildup, which can lead to gum diseases.

5. Give soft food and easy treats to their gums to encourage eating habits: Soft food and easy treats are great for a teething German Shepherd to encourage eating habits. They can help reduce teething discomfort and make your pup feel better.

6. Consult your veterinarian if appetite loss persists or behavior changes drastically: If your German Shepherd is not eating well or their behavior changes drastically, it’s best to consult your veterinarian. They can advise how to help your pup during the teething process.

7. Make sure they have plenty of fresh water available at all times: Provide your German Shepherd with plenty to keep them hydrated during teething. This will help reduce discomfort and pain in their gums and provide essential nutrients for healthy teeth and bones.

8. Avoid giving complex objects that might damage adult teeth while growing in: While teething, it’s essential to avoid giving complex objects that might damage adult teeth. Stick with soft chew toys or treats to relieve and prevent future dental problems.

9. Feed them puppy-formulated kibble, which is easier to digest: Feeding your German Shepherd puppy-formulated kibble is important during teething. The softer texture makes it easier to digest and provides them with the essential nutrients for healthy teeth and bones.

10. Exercise with them frequently to distract from discomfort: Regular exercise is essential for German Shepherds during teething. The distraction from physical activity will help keep them occupied and reduce the discomfort caused by teething.

German Shepherd puppy teething remedies

The teething period can be uncomfortable for German Shepherd puppies. Luckily, with these teething remedies, you can eliminate or reduce pain.

Here is our list of the 10 most popular teething remedies for German Shepherds puppies:

1. Cold Compresses – Apply a cold pack or damp cloth to the area of discomfort to provide temporary relief from teething pain.

2. Teething Toys – Provide your dog with rubber or stuffed toys specifically designed for teething puppies as an alternative to chewing on inappropriate items and furniture.

3. Chew Treats – Give your pup chewy treats such as rawhide, bully sticks, dental chews, etc., to help reduce their discomfort while cleaning their teeth and preventing plaque buildup.

4. Nylabones – Nylabone chew toys are specially designed for hard-chewing dogs and can provide soothing relief during the teething process without getting damaged too quickly by solid jaws and sharp puppy teeth.

5. Ice Cubes & Popsicles – Place a few ice cubes in a water bowl so your German Shepherd can gnaw on it, or offer them frozen fruits like banana slices in popsicle form to give them something cool to chew on during teething time!

The best practice is to place ice cubes into a water bowl. Avoid giving your German Shepherd puppy ice cubes, not in the water bowl, since breaking them will be much more complicated.

6. Natural Remedies – Natural remedies like coconut oil rubbed onto sore gums can help alleviate some pain associated with teething pups! This remedy can also help to soothe gums and reduce inflammation.

7. Veterinary Care – If your pup has difficulty teething or experiencing excessive discomfort, consult your vet for advice on how to manage the situation best.

8. Dental Cleanings – Regular dental cleanings can prevent problems associated with teething and maintain good oral health for years.

9. Feed Soft Foods – Feed your pup soft foods like canned food, baby food, boiled chicken and vegetables, or softened kibble that is easier to chew and digest during teething.

10. Exercise – Exercise will help take their mind off the discomfort by providing them with some physical distraction and help keep their energy level up! It’s also a great way to bond with your pup. Remember that it’s important not to overexert them since they are still growing.

German Shepherd teeth length

Thanks to their teeth length, excellent muscle structure, and agility, German Shepherds are dogs with one of the strongest bites on the planet, with a powerful bite of 238 PSI.

The teeth dimensions of German Shepherd dogs are not always the same. Mostly there will be a slight difference. Some German Shepherds will have bigger teeth, some smaller.

In the image, you can see the average teeth length.

Note: this is the average teeth length based on measuring 13 different adult German Shepherds (males and females).

German Shepherd canine teeth flat

If the canine teeth of your German Shepherd are flat, it is essential to consult a veterinarian as soon as possible. Flat canine teeth can indicate tooth and gum disease and other health problems such as malnutrition or injuries.

Your veterinarian will be able to check your pup's dental health and identify any potential problems. They can also suggest possible treatments to help keep your pup’s teeth and gums healthy.

If the canine teeth are in bad condition and the vet can't save them, the veterinarian will surgically remove the tooth or teeth and suture the gum shut.

Also, dental crown therapy can be a good choice for canine flat teeth. This therapy can be a little bit expensive, but it's very effective.

German Shepherd teething and ears

During the teething period, most German Shepherds will have floppy ears. This means that the ears will not stand up on their own, or they will stand up, but just for a short time.

📝 Related blog post: When Does a German Shepherd's Ears Stand Up? 

To help support your pup’s ear structure and encourage growth, try wearing a headband or putting them in cute accessories like bowties. This can keep their ears in place while they’re still growing.

Also, you should check your puppy’s ears regularly to ensure no ear infections or other issues.

At what age do German Shepherd’s teeth fall out?

German Shepherds start teething around six weeks of age, and the process is complete by 7-8 months. This is when all the adult teeth are in place, replacing all puppy teeth. By approximately nine months, most German Shepherds will have 42 adult teeth to serve them for life.

Taking good care of your pup’s adult teeth is essential for their mouth's long-term health and well-being. Regular dental cleanings, brushing, and chewing on appropriate toys can go a long way in maintaining healthy teeth for many years!

The Right Diet for German Shepherds During Teething

In this section, we'll delve into the details of what to feed your German Shepherd during their teething phase, ensuring they receive the proper nutrition to support healthy growth and comfort.

During the teething phase, which typically starts around 3 to 4 months of age and continues until about 7 months, German Shepherd puppies experience significant changes in their oral development.

As they lose their baby teeth and their adult teeth start coming in, they may become more sensitive and uncomfortable. Providing the right diet during this critical period is essential for their overall well-being.

Here's a detailed discussion on diet considerations for German Shepherds during the teething phase:

1. Softening Their Food

• German Shepherd puppies may find it uncomfortable to chew hard kibble when they're teething. One way to make their meals easier on their gums is to soften their dry kibble with warm water or a low-sodium broth.
• Gradually add liquid to their kibble, allowing it to absorb and become mushy. This makes it less abrasive on their tender gums.

2. High-Quality Puppy Food

• Stick to high-quality commercial puppy food formulated to meet the nutritional needs of growing German Shepherds.
• Look for puppy foods with meat as the primary ingredient, as it provides essential protein for muscle and tissue development.

3. Avoiding Grains and Fillers

• Opt for puppy food that does not contain excessive grains, fillers, or artificial additives. These ingredients may irritate your puppy's digestive system and contribute to discomfort during teething.

4. Feeding Frequency

• Consider increasing the frequency of meals during the teething phase. Instead of feeding your puppy twice a day, you can switch to three or four smaller meals to prevent them from getting too hungry between meals.

5. Introducing Cooled Teething Toys

• Frozen or cooled teething toys can provide relief for your puppy's sore gums. These toys can be a helpful addition to their diet, as they can chew on them before or after meals.

6. Monitor Dental Health

• Pay attention to your puppy's dental health. Teething can sometimes lead to dental issues, such as retained baby teeth. If you notice any concerns or persistent discomfort, consult your veterinarian.

7. Maintaining Proper Hydration

• Ensure your puppy stays well-hydrated. While moistening their food can help with chewing comfort, always provide access to fresh water.

8. Avoiding Hard Treats

• During the teething phase, it's best to avoid giving your puppy hard treats, bones, or toys that could further irritate their gums or damage their new teeth.

9. Consulting Your Veterinarian

• If you're uncertain about your puppy's dietary needs during teething, consult your veterinarian. They can provide personalized guidance based on your puppy's age, weight, and overall health.

10. Transitioning Back to Regular Food

• As your German Shepherd's adult teeth fully emerge, you can gradually transition them back to their regular dry kibble or balanced diet, taking into account their age and activity level.

Providing a diet that supports your German Shepherd's nutritional needs during the teething phase is crucial for their growth and comfort.

Remember that every puppy is unique, so monitor their progress and adjust their diet as needed to ensure they remain happy and healthy during this important developmental period.

Final words

Taking care of your German Shepherd's teeth is essential to pet ownership. Being a German Shepherd dog owner is sometimes difficult, but if you want your German Shepherd to be healthy and in the best shape, you must invest your time and care for him.

Also, remember that adult German Shepherds enjoy chewing even when they are no longer teething. So keep giving your GSD chew toys and edibles that will satisfy this instinct while also helping to keep his teeth clean.

Frequently asked questions

Do you still have questions? Check our FAQ section, and you can find your answer here!