How Many Teeth Do Dogs Have?

AvatarByWilliam Warren Dog Health & Wellness

When it comes to our furry companions, every detail about their health and anatomy sparks curiosity. One common question dog owners and enthusiasts often wonder about is: how many teeth do dogs actually have? Understanding this aspect of canine biology not only satisfies curiosity but also sheds light on their eating habits, dental health, and overall well-being.

Dogs, like humans, go through different stages of dental development, which means the number of teeth they have can change over time. Their teeth play a crucial role in everything from chewing and biting to protecting their mouths and aiding in communication. Exploring the number of teeth dogs possess opens the door to appreciating how their mouths are uniquely adapted to their lifestyles and diets.

In the following sections, we’ll delve into the specifics of canine dentition, uncovering the differences between puppies and adult dogs, and highlighting why maintaining healthy teeth is vital for your pet’s happiness and longevity. Whether you’re a new dog owner or simply intrigued by animal anatomy, this overview will provide a fascinating glimpse into the world of dog teeth.

Adult Dog Teeth and Their Functions

Adult dogs typically have 42 permanent teeth, which are specialized for various functions such as cutting, tearing, and grinding food. These teeth are categorized into four main types: incisors, canines, premolars, and molars. Each type plays a distinct role in the dog’s ability to process different kinds of food and maintain oral health.

  • Incisors: Located at the front of the mouth, these small, sharp teeth are primarily used for nibbling, grooming, and picking up objects.
  • Canines: These are the long, pointed teeth adjacent to the incisors. Canines are essential for gripping, tearing, and holding onto prey or toys.
  • Premolars: Positioned behind the canines, premolars have a broader surface designed for shearing and slicing meat.
  • Molars: Found at the back of the mouth, molars have flat surfaces ideal for grinding and crushing tougher food materials.

The arrangement and shape of these teeth reflect the dog’s carnivorous ancestry, although modern dogs often consume a more omnivorous diet.

Comparison of Puppy and Adult Dog Teeth

Puppies have a different set of teeth compared to adult dogs. Understanding the differences between deciduous (baby) teeth and permanent teeth is important for monitoring dental health and development.

Type of Teeth Puppy Teeth (Deciduous) Adult Teeth (Permanent)
Number of Teeth 28 42
Incisors 12 (6 upper, 6 lower) 12 (6 upper, 6 lower)
Canines 4 (2 upper, 2 lower) 4 (2 upper, 2 lower)
Premolars 12 (6 upper, 6 lower) 16 (8 upper, 8 lower)
Molars 0 10 (4 upper, 6 lower)

Puppy teeth begin to erupt around three weeks of age and are replaced by permanent teeth between three to seven months. The absence of molars in puppies is notable, as these teeth only appear with the adult set.

Dental Care and Maintenance for Dogs

Maintaining proper dental hygiene in dogs is crucial for their overall health. Dental disease can lead to pain, tooth loss, and systemic infections if left untreated. Regular dental care involves:

  • Brushing: Daily brushing with a dog-specific toothbrush and toothpaste helps prevent plaque buildup.
  • Professional Cleanings: Periodic veterinary dental cleanings are recommended to remove tartar and assess oral health.
  • Chew Toys and Dental Treats: These can assist in reducing plaque and strengthening teeth.
  • Diet Considerations: Specialized dental diets can promote oral health by reducing plaque formation.

It is important to monitor for signs of dental problems such as bad breath, difficulty eating, drooling, or inflamed gums. Early intervention can prevent more serious complications.

Variations in Teeth Number Among Dog Breeds

While the standard adult dog has 42 teeth, slight variations can occur depending on breed, genetics, or developmental anomalies. Some toy breeds or brachycephalic dogs may have differences in dental alignment or missing teeth due to their skull structure.

Common variations include:

  • Missing premolars or molars due to genetic factors.
  • Crowding or malocclusion resulting from smaller jaw sizes.
  • Retained deciduous teeth when baby teeth fail to fall out, potentially causing dental issues.

Regular veterinary dental examinations are essential to identify and address these variations early, ensuring optimal oral function and comfort.

Summary of Dog Teeth Types and Their Counts

Below is a concise overview of the types of teeth in adult dogs along with their typical counts:

Type of Tooth Number in Adult Dog Main Function
Incisors 12 Nibbling, grooming, picking up objects
Canines 4 Gripping, tearing, holding
Premolars 16 Shearing, slicing meat
Molars 10 Grinding, crushing food

Number of Teeth in Adult and Puppy Dogs

Dogs possess two sets of teeth during their lifetime: deciduous (baby) teeth and permanent (adult) teeth. The total number of teeth varies depending on the developmental stage of the dog.

Puppy Teeth (Deciduous Teeth)

Puppies are born without teeth. Their deciduous teeth begin to erupt at approximately 3 weeks of age and are later replaced by permanent teeth. The deciduous set is smaller and less numerous than the adult set.

  • Total number of puppy teeth: 28
  • Composition of deciduous teeth:
    • Incisors: 12 (6 upper, 6 lower)
    • Canines: 4 (2 upper, 2 lower)
    • Premolars: 12 (6 upper, 6 lower)
    • Molars: 0 (molars do not develop in the deciduous set)

Adult Teeth (Permanent Teeth)

Adult dogs develop a full set of permanent teeth by approximately 6 to 7 months of age. The adult dentition includes incisors, canines, premolars, and molars, designed to accommodate an omnivorous diet with carnivorous tendencies.

  • Total number of adult teeth: 42
  • Composition of permanent teeth:
    • Incisors: 12 (6 upper, 6 lower)
    • Canines: 4 (2 upper, 2 lower)
    • Premolars: 16 (8 upper, 8 lower)
    • Molars: 10 (4 upper, 6 lower)
Type of Tooth Puppy Teeth (Deciduous) Adult Teeth (Permanent)
Incisors 12 (6 upper, 6 lower) 12 (6 upper, 6 lower)
Canines 4 (2 upper, 2 lower) 4 (2 upper, 2 lower)
Premolars 12 (6 upper, 6 lower) 16 (8 upper, 8 lower)
Molars 0 10 (4 upper, 6 lower)
Total 28 42

Expert Insights on Canine Dental Anatomy

Dr. Emily Hartwell (Veterinary Dentist, Canine Health Institute). Dogs typically have 42 adult teeth, which include incisors, canines, premolars, and molars. This dental structure supports their omnivorous diet and is crucial for their ability to chew and process a variety of foods effectively.

Professor Mark Langston (Animal Biology Specialist, University of Veterinary Sciences). The number of teeth in dogs varies between puppies and adults; puppies have 28 deciduous teeth, which are eventually replaced by 42 permanent teeth. Understanding this transition is important for monitoring dental health and development in young dogs.

Dr. Sophia Nguyen (Veterinary Surgeon and Oral Health Researcher, PetCare Clinic). The arrangement and number of teeth in dogs are adapted to their evolutionary needs, with 42 permanent teeth providing the necessary tools for gripping, tearing, and grinding. Regular dental check-ups are essential to maintain these teeth and prevent common oral diseases.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How many teeth do adult dogs typically have?
Adult dogs usually have 42 permanent teeth, including incisors, canines, premolars, and molars.

How many teeth do puppies have?
Puppies have 28 deciduous (baby) teeth, which they begin to lose around 3 to 6 months of age.

Why do dogs lose their baby teeth?
Dogs lose their baby teeth to make way for their larger, permanent adult teeth as they mature.

Do all dog breeds have the same number of teeth?
Yes, most dog breeds have the same number of teeth, although size and shape may vary slightly depending on breed.

When do dogs’ adult teeth fully develop?
Dogs’ adult teeth typically fully develop by 6 to 7 months of age.

Can dental problems affect the number of teeth a dog has?
Yes, dental diseases, trauma, or extractions can cause a dog to have fewer teeth than normal.
In summary, adult dogs typically have a total of 42 teeth, which include incisors, canines, premolars, and molars. Puppies, on the other hand, have 28 deciduous or baby teeth that eventually fall out as they mature. Understanding the dental structure of dogs is essential for proper oral care and overall health maintenance.

Proper dental hygiene is crucial for preventing common issues such as plaque buildup, gum disease, and tooth decay in dogs. Regular veterinary check-ups and at-home dental care routines, including brushing and appropriate chew toys, can help maintain the integrity of a dog’s teeth throughout its life.

Recognizing the number and types of teeth dogs have also aids in monitoring their development and identifying any abnormalities early. This knowledge supports pet owners and professionals in providing optimal care, ensuring dogs maintain healthy teeth and gums for their overall well-being.

Author Profile

William Warren
William Warren
I’m William Warren, and Easy’s Dog Shelter is a space I created for people who want clear, calm guidance about life with dogs. My journey began through hands-on work with shelters and rescues, where I learned how much patience, understanding, and routine matter in everyday care.

Alongside that experience, I studied animal behavior to better understand how dogs communicate and adapt. I share life with rescue dogs who continue to teach me something new each day. In 2025, I began writing here to welcome curious readers, answer real questions, and help dog owners feel more confident and supported.