Dogs Teeth Falling Out
Dogs lose teeth for various reasons throughout their lives. Puppies naturally shed baby teeth to make way for their adult set, but adult dogs should maintain strong teeth if properly cared for. Understanding when tooth loss is normal and when it signals a problem can help you protect your dog's health and comfort.
Understanding your dog's teeth
Puppies lose around 28 baby teeth before their first birthday as adult teeth develop. Adult dogs typically have 42 permanent teeth, which do not regrow if lost. Finding reputable breeders and ensuring good early dental care helps prevent lifelong problems.
Normal puppy tooth loss
It's common for puppies to lose baby teeth between 3 and 6 months old. These teeth often fall out naturally during chewing and playing, and you might spot or find a few. This process is normal and signals healthy development.
Signs of tooth problems in adult dogs
Adult teeth should remain firm and free of pain. Loose or missing teeth in grown dogs can indicate dental disease, injury, or other issues. Watch for signs like difficulty eating, excessive drooling, bad breath, or reluctance to chew hard items.
What to do if your dog loses a tooth
- Stay calm and check your dog's mouth. Look for bleeding, swelling, or signs of pain.
- Try to locate the lost tooth. If you find it, keep it safe but do not attempt to reinsert it yourself.
- Switch to soft foods temporarily. Avoid hard or crunchy treats to prevent discomfort.
- Schedule a veterinary appointment as soon as possible. Your vet can examine the site, take X-rays, and check for underlying issues like periodontal disease or fractures.
- Follow the vet's advice. Treatment may include professional dental cleaning, tooth extraction, medication for pain or infection, and ongoing dental care routines.
Causes of adult dog tooth loss
Common reasons include dental diseases such as periodontitis caused by plaque and tartar, trauma from chewing on hard objects, injuries from accidents or fights, and sometimes underlying health disorders. Good dental hygiene can lower these risks.
Preventing dental problems
- Brush your dog's teeth regularly with dog-safe toothpaste.
- Provide dental chews and toys designed to reduce plaque.
- Schedule regular veterinary dental check-ups.
- Feed a balanced diet that supports oral health.
- Avoid letting your dog chew on hard bones or dangerous objects.
Can a dog swallow a tooth? Is it dangerous?
Yes, dogs may swallow lost teeth while eating or chewing. Generally, swallowed teeth pass through the digestive system without issue. However, large teeth or sharp fragments could potentially cause irritation. If your dog shows signs of discomfort or digestive upset, inform your vet immediately.
When to seek urgent veterinary care
Immediately consult a vet if your dog has suffered facial trauma, is bleeding excessively, visibly in pain, or has missing large teeth. Early intervention can prevent infections, abscesses, and chronic dental problems.
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Summary and next steps
Losing a tooth as a puppy is natural, but adult dog tooth loss should be professionally assessed. Prompt veterinary care can diagnose causes, relieve pain, and preserve your dog's oral health. Regular dental care routines and careful monitoring will help your dog maintain a healthy, happy mouth throughout its life.
For help finding puppies or trusted breeders to start your journey, use reputable UK sources like the Pets4Homes marketplace.
Why is my dog losing their teeth?
Tooth loss in adult dogs is almost always caused by periodontal disease — the most common health problem in dogs over three years old. Bacteria accumulate in plaque and tartar, causing inflammation of the gums (gingivitis), then infection of the structures that hold teeth in place (periodontitis). Left untreated, the supporting bone erodes and teeth become loose. Other causes include trauma (a fall, collision, or chewing hard objects), tooth resorption (less common than in cats but does occur), and in rare cases tumours affecting the jaw. Puppies losing teeth is normal — adult teeth replace all 28 deciduous teeth between 3–7 months.
When will my puppy lose their teeth?
Puppies start losing their deciduous (milk) teeth from around 3 months of age. The incisors typically fall out first, followed by the premolars and canines, with the process usually complete by 6–7 months. Adult dogs have 42 teeth. Many owners never notice the process as puppies often swallow their baby teeth. If a milk tooth hasn't fallen out by 7 months and the adult tooth is already erupting alongside it (retained deciduous tooth), a vet should remove it to prevent crowding and bite problems.
Why is my older dog losing their teeth?
Tooth loss in older dogs almost always points to advanced periodontal disease. Years of plaque and tartar accumulation cause the gums to recede and the bone supporting each tooth to deteriorate. Small breeds — Yorkshire Terriers, Chihuahuas, Dachshunds, and Cavaliers — are disproportionately affected because their teeth are crowded into a smaller jaw. A dog with multiple loose or missing teeth will likely need a dental procedure under anaesthesia to remove remaining diseased teeth and treat the gum tissue. Daily tooth brushing, dental chews, and regular veterinary dental checks from a young age significantly reduce the risk.
