Looking after your puppy's teeth
It is essential that all puppy owners know how to properly take care of their pups teeth and why it's important. Looking after your puppy's teeth from a young age will get them used to having their mouth touched and handled, which will keep their teeth clean, comfortable and healthy, both now and in the future, just like our own teeth. It will mean you also spot problems sooner.
Illustration of a normal puppy's mouth occlusion vs a normal adult dog's mouth occlusion:
Video animation illustrating puppy and adult dog's teeth eruption:
Most puppies won't be too fussy about having their mouths touched, so it is a good idea to get your pup used to this while they're still young. This will mean you are always able to examine your dog's mouth safely, make it part of your routine to check their mouth and teeth, then you will spot any problems quicker, such as lodged sticks and broken teeth.
IMPORTANT: when it comes to touching your puppy's mouth, remember to always go slowly and gently with lots of praise. Remember, if your puppy responds negatively at any stage of this process, stop, and give your pup a break before trying again.
Animation showing an easy positive handling of the dog's mouth
Picture showing mouth handling of a dog:
How to brush your dog's teeth
Step 1: Start by touching your puppy's face and chin regularly and see how they react to this. If they respond well, touch their mouth, slowly progressing to their lips and teeth. Lift the lip up to view the teeth and gums. Use praise, rewards and encouragement at every step.
Step 2: If the first step goes well, begin rubbing a tasty dog treat paste onto your puppy's lips and teeth. Then progress on to a puppy toothpaste which will break down plaque and fight bacteria. Be aware that human toothpaste is not suitable for dogs as it's too harsh.
Step 3: Now it's time to brush! Be slow and gentle. A toothbrush made specifically for puppies will often have a softer, smaller brush head, which will make the brushing process simpler. You can also purchase pet toothbrushes that fit on your finger, a finger-brush, which can give you more control. Start by using the toothbrush on its own, to get them used to this before introducing your puppy toothpaste as well.
Ask a Vet Nurse to demonstrate this for you.
Video demonstrating how to clean the dog's teeth using wipes:
Video demonstrating how to brush the dog's teeth:
Puppies are born with no teeth and their first set of 28 'milk' teeth (also called deciduous teeth) erupt between 3-6 weeks of age. At around 3 months puppies begin teething again as they lose their first teeth and their adult set of 42 teeth emerge through the gums. By around 6 - 7 months they should all be in place and it's a good idea to book your pup in for a 6-month veterinary health check.
Persistent puppy teeth
What happens if your puppy's 'milk' teeth don't fall out?
If your puppy's temporary teeth remain rooted when their adult dog teeth start to come through, this can result in a number of problems for your pup including:
- Interference with adult teeth growth
- Trapping of food, which can lead to gum inflammation (also known as gingivitis), discomfort and even infections
- Prevention of normal jaw growth
Brachycephalic (flat-faced or short nosed breeds) and small breeds are pre-disposed to these problems.
Animation showing a retained puppy canine tooth
Retained puppy canine tooth:
Image of multiple retained puppy teeth:
Images showing an impingement and gum's damage from a retained puppy tooth:
What is the treatment for retained puppy teeth?
Retained deciduous teeth will usually need to be surgically removed due to the problems they can cause. Your vet will be able to assess if surgery is necessary and discuss potential procedures with you.
Animation demonstrating deciduous tooth extraction:
Pictures of deciduous canine extraction in a puppy:
Tips for life-long dental care:
- Toothbrush daily from an early age
- Consider feeding dental hygiene chews (in moderation!) and dental food – especially for those pups who are not a fan of brushing
- Keep up to date with regular vet checks
Animation showing the benefits in a dog eating dry food and preventing tartar
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