As a veterinary dentist, I serve pet owners who care about their dog’s dental health. One of the most common questions I receive is, “How many teeth do dogs have?”
Understanding dogs’ dental anatomy is crucial for maintaining their oral health. Let’s explore the different types of dog teeth, the timeline for when dogs get their adult teeth, and how to care for your dog’s dental health.
Dogs have four types of teeth, each serving a unique function in their daily activities, from eating to grooming.
Incisors are small teeth located at the front of the mouth. Dogs have 12 incisors, six on the top and six on the bottom. These teeth are primarily used for shearing and grooming, helping dogs to nibble and clean their fur.
Canine teeth, or cuspids, are long, pointed teeth next to the incisors. Dogs have four canine teeth, two on the top and two on the bottom. These teeth are designed for grasping and tearing food, playing a crucial role in a dog’s ability to eat meat.
Premolars are located behind the canine teeth and are used for shearing and grinding food. Dogs have sixteen premolars, eight on the top and eight on the bottom. These teeth have sharp edges that help break down food into smaller, more digestible pieces.
Molars are the teeth located at the very back of the mouth. Dogs have 10 molars, four on the top and six on the bottom. These teeth have a flat surface and are primarily used for grinding food into a fine consistency, making it easier to swallow and digest.
The timeline for a dog’s dental development is quite structured. Puppies are born without teeth, but their deciduous (baby) teeth start coming in at around three to six weeks.
When they are six to eight weeks old, puppies typically have 28 baby teeth. These baby teeth begin to fall out at around three to four months, making way for the adult teeth. When a dog is six to seven months old, they should have all 42 adult teeth.
Puppies have 28 deciduous teeth, which include:
Puppies do not have molars; these teeth only come as part of the adult set.
An adult dog should have 42 teeth in total, which include:
This complete set allows dogs to process their food and maintain their oral health efficiently.
Baby teeth are typically more pointed and needle-like, which helps puppies in their early stages of development. On the other hand, adult teeth are more robust and better suited for the varied diet of an adult dog.
Puppy teeth are exceptionally sharp, so puppy bites can be painful. Adult teeth, while still sharp, are more rounded and less needle-like.
Adult teeth are significantly larger than baby teeth, providing the necessary strength and durability for an adult dog’s diet and activities.
Neglecting daily dental care leads to plaque and tartar buildup, which can cause tooth gum disease. Over time, this can result in tooth loss.
While chew toys can improve a dog’s dental health, hard chews, such as deer antlers, bones, and nylon chew toys, can cause teeth to crack or break. It’s critical to choose appropriate chew toys to avoid dental injuries.
Periodontal diseases like gingivitis can lead to more severe conditions such as periodontitis, which involves destroying the structures supporting the teeth. This can result in loose teeth and, eventually, tooth loss.
Regular dental cleanings by a veterinarian under general anesthesia are crucial for maintaining your dog’s oral health. These cleanings help remove plaque and tartar buildup above and below the gumline.
Feeding your dog a balanced diet with dental-friendly foods can help maintain their oral health. Some dog foods are specifically designed to reduce plaque and tartar buildup.
Dental chews can be a great addition to your dog’s daily oral care routine. These chews help clean the teeth and gums, reducing the risk of dental diseases.
The Veterinary Oral Health Council accepts dental products that are considered safe and effective in decreasing the accumulation of plaque and tartar. Some dental products have also been shown to remove hardened tartar from teeth, like YummyCombs®.
You need to visit a veterinarian if you notice any signs of dental problems in your dog, such as bad breath, difficulty eating, or visible plaque and tartar buildup. Regular check-ups can help catch dental issues early and prevent more severe problems.
Understanding your dog’s dental anatomy and the importance of dental care is crucial for their overall health. By keeping up with regular dental cleanings, providing a quality diet, and using dental chews, you can help ensure your dog maintains a healthy set of teeth throughout their life.
If you have any concerns about your dog’s dental health, don’t hesitate to consult your veterinarian for advice and treatment options.
Sources:
Veterinary Oral Health Council
Revisiting Periodontal Disease in Dogs: How to Manage This New Old Problem? | PMC
Updates, coupons, deals, and more!
Always feed the right treat size for your dog’s weight category. Always supervise your dog when feeding treats. This product is an adult only dog treat. Always provide ample fresh water for your dog.
Type anything...
We use cookies to provide you the best possible experience on our website. You consent to the usage of cookies by continuing to view our website. See our Privacy Notice for more information.
