Dog Teeth 101: How Many Teeth Do Dogs Really Have?

How Many Teeth Do Dogs Have?

So, how many teeth do dogs have exactly? Adult dogs have a total of 42 permanent teeth distributed across the upper jaw (maxilla) and lower jaw (mandible). That is 10 more teeth than adult humans! These 42 teeth fall into four distinct types, each with a specific purpose. Before reaching that impressive full set, however, puppies start with just 28 baby teeth, also known as deciduous or milk teeth.

Are Dogs Born with Teeth?

The short answer is: no, dogs are not born with teeth. Puppies arrive in the world completely toothless, which makes sense given that they rely entirely on their mother's milk in those first weeks of life.

Their first set of teeth, the deciduous (baby) teeth, begins to emerge through the gums at around 3 to 4 weeks of age. By the time most puppies are around 8 weeks old and heading home with their new families, their full set of 28 baby teeth have typically come in.

Types of Dog Teeth

There are four types of teeth in a dog's mouth, each built for a specific role:

• Incisors (12 total): These are the small teeth right at the front of your pup's mouth, six on top and six on the bottom. They use these for gentle nibbling, grooming themselves, and picking up their favorite small toys.
• Canines (4 total): These are the long, pointed fang teeth, two upper and two lower. They're incredibly strong and help your dog grip and hold on, which is why a teething puppy's nip can really get your attention!
• Premolars (16 total): Sitting behind the canines, eight upper and eight lower. These jagged teeth are designed for shearing and slicing food into smaller pieces. Think of them as your dog's built-in food processor.
• Molars (10 total): Located at the very back of the mouth, four on top and six on the bottom. These broad, flat teeth crush and grind harder foods and are the last to emerge during the adult teething process.

Puppy Teething Timeline

Here is a general timeline of what you can expect:

• 3 to 4 weeks: Baby teeth begin to emerge. Puppies are still with their mother and littermates at this stage.
• 6 to 8 weeks: All 28 baby teeth have typically come in. This is around when most puppies join their new families.
• 3 to 4 months: Baby teeth start to loosen and fall out as adult teeth begin to push through.
• 4 to 6 months: Adult teeth erupt rapidly. This is the peak of the teething phase, when puppies chew the most, and their gums are most tender.
• 6 to 7 months: All 42 permanent adult teeth are usually fully in place.

What To Feed A Teething Puppy? 

During the teething phase, your puppy's gums can be quite tender and sore. Hard kibble can be uncomfortable to crunch on, which is why so many of us search for: "Best soft food for teething puppies?” Soft, wet puppy food is an excellent solution for complete and balanced nutrition. You can also add a small amount of warm water to their food to soften it further; many teething puppies find this extra soothing.

What Changes Between Puppy and Adult Dog Teeth?

Beyond the jump in number from 28 to 42, there are several meaningful differences between puppy teeth and adult teeth:

• Size and strength: Adult teeth are significantly larger and more durable than baby teeth, built to last a lifetime.
• Sharpness: Baby teeth are notoriously needle-like and piercing. Adult teeth, while strong, tend to feel less sharp to the touch.
• Root depth: Adult teeth have much deeper, more established roots firmly anchored in the jawbone.
• No baby molars: Puppies do not have any molars in their baby set; these only emerge with the permanent teeth.
• Functionality: Adult teeth are built for a lifetime of chewing on a varied diet, whereas baby teeth are designed primarily for the early weaning transition from milk to solid food.

How to Brush Your Dog's Teeth?

The idea of brushing your dog's teeth might sound a little daunting at first! Here is how to brush your dog's teeth correctly:

1. Choose the right tools: Use a toothbrush designed specifically for dogs and a pet-safe toothpaste, never human toothpaste, as ingredients like fluoride and xylitol are toxic to dogs.
2. Start slow: Let your dog sniff and lick the toothpaste first so they build a positive association with it before you introduce the brush.
3. Focus on the outer surfaces: Most plaque accumulates on the outer surfaces of the teeth, especially the large upper premolars and molars. These are the most important areas to target.
4. Keep sessions short: Even 30 to 60 seconds makes a meaningful difference. Build up gradually over several days.
5. End on a high note: Finish every session with praise and a play session so your dog looks forward to brushing time.

How Diet Affects Your Dog's Dental Health

We love talking about the connection between great nutrition and a healthier, happier dog, and your dog's dental health is no exception! What your dog eats has a direct impact on the condition of their teeth and gums. Periodontal (gum) disease is one of the most common health issues in adult dogs, affecting up to 80% of dogs by just two years of age.

Can Dogs Lose Their Teeth?

Yes, dogs can lose their teeth, and it is more common than many pet parents realize. Tooth loss in adult dogs is most often the result of periodontal disease, the progressive deterioration of the gum tissue, and supporting bone structures. Other causes of tooth loss include trauma, such as injury from an accident or from chewing extremely hard objects, and the complications of untreated retained baby teeth.

Conclusion

By understanding how many teeth dogs have at each life stage, recognizing the signs of teething, learning to brush those teeth, and making thoughtful food choices, you are giving your best friend the gift of a healthy, happy smile for life.

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