TL;DR: Quick Guide to Dog Teeth – From Puppy Teeth to Adult Teeth and Dental Care
- Puppies start life with 28 tiny, sharp teeth that soon fall out to make way for 42 adult teeth, giving them a full set for chewing, gripping, and exploring.
- Adult dogs have 42 teeth: 20 on top and 22 on the bottom, including incisors, canine teeth, premolars, and molars—each with its own job to help your dog eat, play, and even groom.
- Dental problems like decaying teeth, injuries, or retained baby teeth can cause pain, loosen teeth, or sometimes require a veterinarian to remove numerous teeth.
- Keep an eye out for signs like loose or wiggly teeth, red or bleeding gums, bad breath, yellow or brown tartar, drooling, or pawing at the mouth—your dog is trying to tell you something.
- At-home care, like gentle tooth brushing, dental chews, a healthy diet, and paying attention to your dog’s body language, goes a long way in preventing dental disease in the mouth.
- Regular vet visits and professional cleanings help protect your dog’s teeth, keep them strong, and teach you about the types of teeth for different functions in your dog’s mouth.
If you notice any signs of dental problems or think your dog might need extra care, get in touch with our professional vets. We’re here to help keep your dog comfortable, healthy, and happy. Taking action early can make a big difference and help prevent teeth from being lost or other dental issues.
Have you ever stopped to think about how many teeth dogs actually have? From baby teeth to a permanent set of teeth, their dental health plays a big part in how they chew, play, and explore the world. Just like with human teeth, the number of teeth your dog has is more important than it seems.
As puppies grow, their set of teeth changes quickly in just a few months of age. Canine teeth, incisors, and molars each have their own job, and noticing where the teeth are located can tell you a lot about your dog’s overall dental health.
Issues like dental disease, decaying teeth, or retained deciduous teeth can cause real problems if they’re not looked after. Simple things like brushing, giving dental chews, and regular checkups make a huge difference—read on to find out the number of teeth your dog should have and why it matters.
How Many Teeth Do Dogs Have: From Puppy Teeth to a Full Set of Canine Teeth
Just like human kids, dogs go through a teething stage where their small teeth fall out and make way for stronger adult teeth. Watching your dog move from puppy teeth to adult teeth can feel like a milestone, and it’s also an important step for their teeth and overall dental health. If you notice your dog chewing more or dropping tiny teeth around the house, don’t worry—it’s all part of growing up.
How Many Teeth Do Puppies Start With?
Puppies don’t have teeth when they’re born, but within a few weeks, little sharp teeth begin to pop through. These are called deciduous teeth, or puppy teeth, and they’re extremely sharp teeth located both in the front and the back of the mouth. By the time they have their full set, puppies use their teeth to pick up toys, nibble, and even test boundaries—sometimes a little too eagerly with those razor-like bites.
- Puppies grow 28 deciduous teeth before they transition to adult teeth.
- The eruption of adult teeth usually starts between 3 and 6 months of age.
- Small breed dogs and greyhounds sometimes hold on to their puppy teeth longer, which may need a vet’s help.
Adult Dogs and Their 42 Permanent Teeth
Once the puppy teeth fall out, they’re replaced with adult teeth in dogs, giving them a full and permanent set. Adult dogs should have 42 permanent teeth (top and bottom), with incisors at the front of the mouth, canine teeth for tearing, and premolars and molars in the back for chewing. Unlike humans, who have 32 teeth, dogs have 42 teeth, and each type of tooth has its own purpose. Keeping these teeth clean is key—dog teeth decay and wear can lead to painful problems if not cared for.
- 20 teeth on top and 22 on the bottom complete the set of adult teeth in dogs.
- Different types of teeth handle nibbling, gripping, tearing, and chewing.
- About 80 percent of dogs over the age of three show signs of dental disease in their mouth.
- Diseased gums and decaying teeth may cause a dog to lose teeth if left untreated.
The Various Types of Dog Teeth
Understanding your dog’s teeth is a vital part of keeping their mouth healthy. Each type of tooth in your dog’s mouth has a specific role, from chewing food to protecting against injury to their mouth. By paying attention to your dog’s teeth, you can prevent problems like diseased teeth, dog teeth decay and wear, or even losing their adult teeth.
Incisors: Teeth in the Front
Incisors are the small teeth located at the front of the upper and lower jaws.
- They help your dog pick up small objects and nibble food.
- They’re also used for grooming and cleaning their fur.
- Puppies start with 28 puppy teeth in the front, and noticing loose or wiggly teeth is a normal part of development.
Canine Teeth: Sharp Tools for Gripping
Canine teeth are the extremely sharp teeth located next to the incisors.
- They help dogs grip and tear food.
- Canine teeth also play a role in your dog’s body language, showing confidence or alertness.
- Located in front of the upper and lower jaws, they’re a key part of your dog’s many sets of teeth.
Premolars: Teeth for Shearing and Grinding
Premolars sit behind the canine teeth and are used for tearing and grinding food.
- They support chewing and help with the transition from puppy teeth to adult teeth.
- Without proper care, premolars can suffer from dog teeth decay and wear, leading to concerns about their teeth.
Molars: Teeth in the Back for Crushing
Molars are found at the back of your dog’s mouth.
- They’re designed to crush tougher food and make chewing easier.
- Problems with molars can lead to diseased teeth or teeth that need to be removed.
- Regular brushing of your dog's teeth and scheduling a dental appointment can prevent issues and protect your dog’s dental health.
Common Problems and Tooth Loss in Dogs
Dental disease in the mouth is one of the main reasons a dog is losing their adult teeth. Dogs typically have 42 teeth, and these teeth can be lost when problems arise due to decay, injury, or delayed age of eruption of adult teeth. Another injury to their mouth or chewing hard objects can also cause teeth to need attention, or even require teeth to be removed.
Common Causes of Tooth Loss
- Periodontal Disease: The most common reason dogs lose teeth is plaque and tartar that damage gums and the bone supporting their teeth.
- Fractured Teeth: Hard chewing or trauma can break a tooth, sometimes requiring the extraction of numerous teeth by a veterinarian.
- Oral Infections: Bacteria in the teeth or mouth can lead to infections that make teeth need to be removed.
- Retained or Improperly Erupted Teeth: If the age of eruption of adult teeth is delayed or baby teeth don’t fall out, it can crowd other teeth and lead to problems.
Preventing Tooth Loss
Brushing your dog's teeth regularly, using dental chews, and scheduling a dental appointment are key to keeping your dog’s teeth healthy. Brushing and veterinary dental care help prevent dogs' teeth from being lost, diseased, or requiring teeth to be removed. Vets explain dog teeth care and the importance of paying attention, making it easier to maintain your dog’s dental health and comfort.
Keeping Up With Canine Dental and Oral Care
Taking care of your dog’s teeth is more than just keeping their smile nice—it’s essential for their overall health. Tooth brushing, dental chews, and a good diet help prevent dental disease in the mouth and reduce the chances that a dog’s teeth can be lost. Changes in your dog’s behaviour can be the first sign that your dog is losing teeth, so understanding dog body language is critical.
At-Home Dental Care
- Tooth Brushing: Brushing your dog's teeth regularly is the best way to keep their teeth healthy. Start slowly, let them sniff the brush, and reward them with treats so it’s a positive experience.
- Dental Chews and Toys: Providing approved chews and toys helps clean teeth located in your dog's mouth while keeping them entertained.
- Observation: Notice that your dog may have loose or wiggly teeth, discomfort while chewing, or other subtle signs. Understanding dog body language makes it easier to spot problems early.
- Diet: A balanced diet supports healthy teeth. Dry food can help clean teeth naturally, and your vet may recommend dental-specific diets to reduce plaque and tartar.
Professional Veterinary Care
- Regular Exams: Schedule checkups at least every six months. Vets explain dog teeth care, check for early signs of issues, and help prevent dogs’ teeth from being lost.
- Professional Cleaning: Some situations require cleaning or treatment, especially if plaque or tartar buildup is severe.
- Expert Guidance: Vets explain the types of teeth for different functions and guide you on maintaining healthy teeth located in your dog's mouth.
Signs Your Dog May Have Dental Problems
Notice that your dog could be losing teeth or experiencing issues if you see:
- Loose, wiggly teeth, broken, or missing teeth
- Red, swollen, or bleeding gums
- Yellow or brown tartar buildup
- Changes in behaviour or pawing at the mouth
- Bad breath or excessive drooling
- Pain or reluctance to chew or eat, or pawing at the mouth
Key Tips for Maintaining Canine Dental Health
- Introduce tooth brushing and make it a fun, positive experience.
- Offer dental chews and toys to support cleaning teeth located in your dog's mouth.
- Schedule regular veterinary exams and professional cleanings to prevent the loss of a dog’s teeth or the need for teeth extraction.
- Watch your dog closely—understanding dog body language is critical to noticing early problems and keeping their dental health in check.
Final Thoughts
Taking care of your dog’s teeth is more than just keeping their smile cute—it’s a big part of their overall health and happiness. From tiny puppy teeth to a full set of adult teeth, each one helps them eat, play, and explore the world.
Dental problems like loose, decaying, or missing teeth can be painful and affect their mood and well-being. Simple habits like brushing their teeth, giving dental chews, and paying attention to your dog’s body language can prevent many issues before they become serious.
Regular vet checkups and professional cleanings catch problems early and keep their mouth healthy. With consistent care, you can help your dog enjoy a strong, healthy smile—and all the wagging, playful moments that come with it.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many sets of teeth do dogs go through in their lifetime?
Dogs go through two main sets of teeth during their life: puppy teeth and adult teeth.
Puppy teeth: Puppies start with 28 tiny, sharp teeth that help them explore, nibble, and play.
Adult teeth: Around 3 to 6 months, these baby teeth fall out and make way for 42 permanent teeth.
Dental milestones: Watching your dog lose puppy teeth and grow adult teeth is not only exciting—it’s also a great way to check on their dental health.
When do puppies start losing their baby teeth and growing adult teeth?
Most puppies begin losing their baby teeth around 3 to 4 months old.
Eruption of adult teeth: Their adult teeth usually finish coming in by 6 to 7 months.
Signs of teething: Loose teeth, extra chewing, or tiny teeth around the house are normal and part of growing up.
Breed differences: Small breeds and greyhounds sometimes keep their puppy teeth longer, and a vet may need to help them.
What are the different types of teeth in a dog’s mouth and their functions?
Dogs have different types of teeth, each with a special job to help them eat, play, and groom.
Incisors: Small front teeth for picking up objects and cleaning fur.
Canine teeth: Sharp teeth next to the incisors for gripping, tearing, and even showing confidence or alertness.
Premolars and molars: Back teeth that grind and crush food, helping your dog chew properly and stay healthy.
How can I tell if my dog is experiencing tooth loss or dental problems?
Keeping an eye on your dog’s teeth can prevent painful issues later.
Loose or wiggly teeth: This can happen during teething or because of dental disease.
Gum problems: Red, swollen, or bleeding gums can be a sign of decay or infection.
Behaviour changes: Drooling, pawing at the mouth, avoiding chewing, or acting irritable may mean something hurts.
What daily care and veterinary steps can help maintain healthy teeth for my dog?
Healthy teeth come from a mix of home care and professional help.
Tooth brushing: Brushing regularly keeps plaque and tartar under control and your dog comfortable.
Dental chews and toys: These help clean teeth located in your dog's mouth while keeping them entertained.
Professional care: Routine vet checkups and cleanings prevent serious dental problems and protect adult teeth.
Observation: Paying attention to your dog’s body language helps you notice early signs of pain or dental issues.
