If you’re raising a Belgian Malinois puppy, you’ve probably started to notice tiny teeth on the floor, sudden chewing frenzies, or maybe some red and swollen gums.
These are signs that your Belgian Malinois is going through the teething process.
Just like human babies, puppies are born without teeth and go through a full dental development cycle that includes losing their baby teeth and growing adult ones.
We outline exactly when Belgian Malinois lose baby teeth, what to expect during the process, and how to help your pup through this uncomfortable but essential developmental phase.
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Here’s When Belgian Malinois Lose Baby Teeth
Belgian Malinois puppies start to lose their baby teeth—also called milk teeth—between 12 to 16 weeks of age. This teething period typically continues until they’re about 6 to 7 months old, at which point all their 42 permanent adult teeth should be in place.
Timeline of Puppy Teething
Birth to 3 Weeks: No Teeth Yet
At birth, Belgian Malinois puppies don’t have any visible teeth.
They rely entirely on their mother’s milk and are too young to chew or consume solid food.
During this early phase, you won’t notice any teething behavior.
3 to 6 Weeks: Baby Teeth Emerge
Between 3 to 6 weeks of age, a Belgian Malinois will begin developing 28 baby teeth, which include incisors, canines, and premolars.
These teeth are small, razor-sharp, and serve the purpose of transitioning the puppy from milk to soft foods.
If you’re a breeder or have access to very young puppies, this is the period you’ll start to see biting and chewing behavior increase as these milk teeth erupt.
12 to 16 Weeks: The Shedding Begins
Around 3 to 4 months of age, Belgian Malinois start losing their baby teeth.
This is when you’ll begin to see signs like:
Dropped tiny teeth around the house
Swollen or bleeding gums
Increased drooling
Reluctance to eat
A strong desire to chew everything in sight
During this phase, their bodies start reabsorbing the roots of baby teeth to make room for the permanent ones.
Related: Belgian Malinois limping (Here’s Why)
The Adult Teeth Timeline for Belgian Malinois
By the time your Belgian Malinois puppy is 6 to 7 months old, the teething process should be complete. Here’s what typically happens:
Incisors (the small teeth at the front) are usually the first to fall out and be replaced.
Canines (the longer, pointy teeth) follow.
Premolars and molars at the back come in last.
Once the teething stage is over, your Belgian Malinois should have a complete set of 42 adult teeth—20 on the top jaw and 22 on the bottom.
If you’re wondering when do Belgian Malinois lose baby teeth, the key takeaway is: teething starts at around 12 weeks and wraps up by 6 to 7 months.
Delays beyond this period may require a vet’s intervention.
Why Understanding the Teething Timeline Matters
Knowing when Belgian Malinois lose baby teeth is important because:
It helps identify abnormal dental development
You can support your puppy through pain and discomfort
You can prevent destructive chewing habits from forming
It’s an opportunity to establish dental hygiene routines
If a Belgian Malinois puppy retains some of their baby teeth beyond 7 months, they may develop dental crowding or misalignment, which can lead to more serious oral health issues.
Regular checkups with your vet during this phase are essential.
Related: Why is my Belgian Malinois breathing heavy? (Here’s Why)
Common Signs of Teething in Belgian Malinois
Belgian Malinois are known for their high energy and strong bite drive.
During teething, these natural tendencies may become even more intense. Here are the signs to look out for:
Excessive chewing: From furniture to fingers, expect a teething puppy to chew anything in sight.
Drooling: Increased saliva is common during tooth eruption.
Swollen or bleeding gums: Redness or blood spots on toys are normal.
Mild fever or irritability: Though not always, some puppies may act fussier during this time.
Pawing at the mouth: A sign of discomfort or tooth pain.
Recognizing these behaviors early can help you better manage your dog’s needs during teething.
How to Help Your Belgian Malinois Puppy Through Teething
Supporting your Belgian Malinois as they lose their baby teeth doesn’t have to be complicated. Here’s what you can do:
1. Provide Teething Toys
Tough, rubber-based toys like KONGs, freezable chew toys, or puppy teething rings offer relief.
These soothe inflamed gums and provide an outlet for chewing urges.
2. Offer Frozen Treats
Frozen carrots, dog-safe popsicles, or ice cubes can help numb the gums.
These treats are particularly helpful during the most painful stages of teething.
3. Use Puppy-Safe Dental Chews
Opt for dental sticks that are appropriate for your puppy’s age and size.
They help keep gums clean and offer a satisfying texture to gnaw on.
4. Monitor for Retained Baby Teeth
Sometimes baby teeth don’t fall out naturally. This condition, known as retained deciduous teeth, can lead to overlapping teeth and mouth discomfort.
If your Belgian Malinois hasn’t lost a baby tooth by 7 months, consult your vet to assess if extraction is necessary.
5. Start a Dental Hygiene Routine
Begin brushing your puppy’s teeth early using a puppy-safe toothbrush and toothpaste.
This helps them get used to having their mouths handled and promotes lifelong dental health.
When to See a Veterinarian
While the teething process in Belgian Malinois is usually straightforward, some situations warrant a vet’s attention:
Persistent baby teeth beyond 7 months
Bleeding that doesn’t stop
Refusal to eat for more than a day
Swelling or pus around the gums
Bad breath that smells like infection
These could be signs of retained teeth, abscesses, or other oral health problems.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do Belgian Malinois lose baby teeth earlier than other breeds?
No, Belgian Malinois lose baby teeth on a similar timeline to most medium and large breeds, typically starting around 12 weeks and finishing by 6-7 months.
What happens if my Belgian Malinois swallows a baby tooth?
There’s no need to worry. It’s common for puppies to swallow their baby teeth during play or eating. These tiny teeth usually pass through the digestive system without issue.
Are Belgian Malinois more prone to dental problems?
Belgian Malinois are not genetically predisposed to dental problems more than other breeds, but their high-energy and intense chewing behaviors can lead to broken teeth if they chew on inappropriate objects. Regular vet visits and safe chew toys are essential.
Key Takeaway: When Do Belgian Malinois Lose Baby Teeth?
Belgian Malinois lose their baby teeth between 12 weeks and 6-7 months of age, during which they transition from 28 sharp milk teeth to 42 strong adult teeth.
This natural process can cause temporary discomfort and behavior changes, but with the right support—like chew toys, frozen treats, and dental hygiene—you can help your pup through it smoothly.
If your Belgian Malinois has not lost all baby teeth by 7 months, consult your vet to avoid potential dental issues down the line.
Understanding when Belgian Malinois lose baby teeth ensures you’re prepared to care for their oral health from the very beginning.