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At what age do German shepherds stop teething?

German shepherds, with their sharp minds and boundless energy, go through a teething phase that can leave your hands, furniture, and even your favorite shoes looking like battlefields.

German shepherds, with their sharp minds and boundless energy, go through a teething phase that can leave your hands, furniture, and even your favorite shoes looking like battlefields. It’s a natural part of their growth, but many owners wonder when this chewing spree will finally end.

Typically, German shepherd puppies start teething around 3 to 4 weeks old, when their tiny milk teeth begin to push through. These needle-like teeth are cute but temporary—by 12 to 16 weeks, they’ll start falling out, making way for 42 adult teeth. The worst of the chewing usually hits between 4 and 6 months, as those larger, stronger adult teeth erupt, causing discomfort that drives them to gnaw on anything available.

Most German shepherds finish teething by 7 to 8 months of age. By this point, all their adult teeth should be in place, and the intense urge to chew often fades. That said, every puppy is different—some might wrap up a bit earlier, while others take a few weeks longer. Keeping an eye on their dental development can help you gauge when the phase is ending; if you notice fewer chewed-up items and less focus on gnawing, it’s a good sign they’re through the worst.

During teething, providing appropriate outlets is key. Sturdy chew toys, frozen Kongs filled with peanut butter, and dental chews can soothe their gums and save your belongings. It’s also a good time to start reinforcing training—teaching them what’s acceptable to chew on helps prevent bad habits from sticking around long after teething ends.

In many European and American regions, local laws emphasize responsible pet ownership, which includes addressing destructive behaviors like excessive chewing. While teething is temporary, failing to manage it could lead to issues with neighbors or run-ins with animal control, especially in areas with strict rules on property damage. Some cities even require owners to take steps to prevent their pets from causing harm, so investing in proper chew toys isn’t just about convenience—it’s about staying compliant.

As your German shepherd grows out of teething, maintaining good dental hygiene becomes important. Regular brushing, annual vet check-ups to assess dental health, and ongoing access to dental chews can keep their adult teeth strong and healthy for years to come.

By understanding when teething ends and how to manage it in the meantime, you’ll help your German shepherd navigate this phase comfortably—all while keeping your home intact and staying on the right side of local regulations.

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