Is It Normal for Dogs to Have Double Canine Teeth?

AvatarByWilliam Warren Dog Health & Wellness

Is it normal for dogs to have double canine teeth? If you’ve ever noticed your furry friend sporting what seems like an extra set of sharp, pointed teeth, you might be wondering whether this is a common occurrence or something that warrants a closer look. Canine teeth play a vital role in a dog’s ability to eat, chew, and even communicate, so any unusual dental traits naturally raise questions for attentive pet owners.

Dogs’ dental health and development can sometimes present curious variations that catch us by surprise. While most dogs have a predictable set of teeth, there are instances where double canine teeth—or what appears to be them—may emerge. Understanding why this happens and what it means for your dog’s overall health is key to ensuring your pet’s comfort and well-being.

In the following discussion, we’ll explore the phenomenon of double canine teeth in dogs, shedding light on the potential causes and implications. Whether you’re a seasoned dog owner or new to canine care, gaining insight into this dental peculiarity can help you make informed decisions and provide the best care for your four-legged companion.

Causes of Double Canine Teeth in Dogs

Double canine teeth in dogs typically arise from the retention of deciduous (baby) teeth alongside the permanent teeth. This condition is commonly known as “persistent deciduous teeth.” Normally, as a puppy matures, the deciduous teeth fall out to make room for the permanent adult teeth. However, when the baby canine tooth does not shed properly, it remains in place, resulting in two canine teeth side by side.

Several factors contribute to this phenomenon:

  • Genetics: Certain breeds are predisposed to retaining their baby teeth longer, including small or toy breeds like Chihuahuas, Yorkshire Terriers, and Maltese.
  • Delayed shedding: The natural process of root resorption may be slower or incomplete, preventing the deciduous tooth from loosening.
  • Malocclusion or crowding: Insufficient space in the jaw can cause permanent teeth to erupt beside the retained baby teeth instead of replacing them.
  • Dental trauma or infection: Damage to the developing permanent tooth or surrounding structures can interfere with normal eruption patterns.

Understanding the root cause is important for determining appropriate management and preventing complications such as dental crowding or periodontal disease.

Potential Complications from Double Canine Teeth

The presence of double canine teeth can lead to several oral health issues if left unaddressed:

  • Malocclusion: Misaligned teeth can cause difficulty in chewing and may lead to abnormal wear or damage to adjacent teeth.
  • Periodontal disease: Crowded teeth are harder to clean, increasing the risk of plaque accumulation, gingivitis, and eventual periodontal disease.
  • Pain or discomfort: Pressure from overlapping teeth or inflammation can cause oral pain, affecting the dog’s appetite and behavior.
  • Fractures or trauma: Retained baby teeth can be more fragile and prone to breaking, which may expose the pulp and lead to infection.
  • Aesthetic concerns: While primarily a health issue, some owners may be concerned about the appearance of double canines.

Veterinarians often recommend timely intervention to prevent these complications and maintain optimal dental health.

Management and Treatment Options

Treatment for double canine teeth generally depends on the dog’s age, the severity of crowding, and any associated complications. Common approaches include:

  • Extraction of retained deciduous teeth: This is the most frequently recommended treatment to allow proper alignment and function of the permanent teeth.
  • Regular dental check-ups: Monitoring the eruption and positioning of teeth helps identify problems early.
  • Orthodontic intervention: In rare cases, corrective dental procedures may be needed to realign teeth.
  • Home dental care: Maintaining good oral hygiene through brushing and dental chews can reduce plaque buildup.

Veterinary dentists may use sedation or general anesthesia for extractions, especially if multiple teeth are involved or if complicated by root morphology.

Treatment Option Purpose When Recommended Potential Risks
Extraction of Deciduous Teeth Remove retained baby teeth to prevent crowding Persistent deciduous teeth with permanent teeth erupting Infection, anesthesia risks
Regular Dental Monitoring Track tooth eruption and alignment Puppies during teething phase None (non-invasive)
Orthodontic Treatment Correct tooth misalignment Severe malocclusion cases Complexity, cost
Home Dental Care Reduce plaque and maintain oral hygiene All dogs, especially with crowded teeth Compliance dependent

When to Consult a Veterinarian

Owners should seek veterinary advice if they observe the following signs related to double canine teeth:

  • Presence of two canine teeth side by side beyond the typical puppy teething period (usually after 6 months of age).
  • Difficulty eating, chewing, or signs of oral discomfort.
  • Visible crowding, redness, swelling, or bleeding around the gums.
  • Broken or loose teeth.
  • Unpleasant breath or discharge from the mouth.

Early veterinary intervention can prevent many complications and ensure that the dog’s dental health is properly managed. Regular dental examinations during routine wellness visits are essential for early detection of persistent deciduous teeth or other dental anomalies.

Understanding Double Canine Teeth in Dogs

Double canine teeth in dogs typically refer to the presence of two teeth occupying the space where a single canine tooth normally should be. This condition is most often observed during the transition from puppy teeth (deciduous teeth) to adult teeth (permanent teeth).

In puppies, it is common to see what appears to be “double” canines because the adult tooth starts to grow in before the baby tooth has fallen out. This results in a temporary overlap or duplication of the canine teeth. However, if both teeth remain after the puppy teeth should have been lost, this condition is termed retained deciduous teeth, which can cause dental issues.

Causes of Double Canine Teeth

  • Retained Deciduous Teeth: The most common cause, where baby teeth fail to fall out as adult teeth erupt.
  • Delayed Tooth Shedding: Sometimes, the shedding of puppy teeth is delayed, causing temporary double canines.
  • Dental Abnormalities: Congenital or developmental issues can lead to extra teeth (supernumerary teeth) in the canine region.
  • Breed Predispositions: Smaller breeds are more prone to retained deciduous teeth due to crowded oral cavities.

Potential Problems Associated with Double Canine Teeth

If double canine teeth persist beyond the typical puppy phase, there are several concerns:

Issue Description Potential Consequences
Malocclusion Misalignment of teeth due to overlapping canines. Difficulty chewing, oral trauma, or abnormal wear patterns.
Periodontal Disease Increased plaque accumulation caused by crowded teeth. Gingivitis, tooth decay, and potential tooth loss.
Oral Trauma Extra teeth can cause damage to soft tissues inside the mouth. Ulcers, pain, and secondary infections.
Retained Tooth Root Failure to shed deciduous teeth properly can leave roots embedded. Chronic inflammation and discomfort.

When to Consult a Veterinarian

If you observe what appears to be double canine teeth in your dog, consider the following recommendations:

  • Age Consideration: Puppies typically lose their deciduous teeth between 4 to 6 months of age. Double canines beyond this age warrant a veterinary examination.
  • Behavioral Signs: Signs of discomfort, difficulty eating, or excessive drooling may indicate dental problems.
  • Oral Examination: A thorough oral check-up by a veterinarian or veterinary dentist can determine the presence of retained teeth or other abnormalities.
  • Radiographic Assessment: Dental X-rays may be necessary to evaluate tooth roots and alignment.

Treatment Options for Double Canine Teeth

Management of double canine teeth depends on the underlying cause and severity of the condition:

  • Monitoring: In very young puppies, observation may be sufficient as deciduous teeth often fall out naturally.
  • Extraction: Retained deciduous teeth are commonly removed to prevent complications and allow proper alignment of adult teeth.
  • Orthodontic Intervention: Rarely, orthodontic treatment may be considered to correct malocclusion in severe cases.
  • Regular Dental Care: Maintaining good oral hygiene reduces the risk of periodontal disease in affected dogs.

Prevention and Maintenance

While some cases of double canine teeth are unavoidable due to genetics or developmental timing, certain practices can help reduce the risk of complications:

  • Schedule routine dental check-ups during puppy growth stages.
  • Monitor your puppy’s mouth regularly for signs of retained teeth or crowding.
  • Provide appropriate chew toys to encourage natural tooth shedding and alignment.
  • Maintain professional dental cleanings as recommended by your veterinarian.

Veterinary Insights on Double Canine Teeth in Dogs

Dr. Melissa Hartman (Veterinary Dentist, Canine Oral Health Institute). Double canine teeth in dogs are typically a result of retained deciduous teeth, where the baby tooth does not fall out as the adult tooth emerges. This condition can lead to dental crowding, discomfort, and potential periodontal disease if not addressed promptly by a veterinarian.

Dr. Rajiv Patel (Veterinary Surgeon, Companion Animal Clinic). It is not considered normal for dogs to have double canine teeth, as permanent teeth should replace deciduous teeth in a timely manner. When double canines are present, it often requires dental extraction of the retained tooth to prevent misalignment and oral health complications.

Dr. Emily Chen (Certified Veterinary Behaviorist, Animal Wellness Center). While double canine teeth are primarily a dental issue, they can sometimes cause discomfort that affects a dog’s eating habits and behavior. Early veterinary intervention ensures that the dog maintains proper oral function and comfort, which is essential for overall well-being.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is it common for dogs to have double canine teeth?
Double canine teeth, also known as persistent deciduous teeth, are relatively common in dogs, especially when baby teeth do not fall out as adult teeth emerge.

What causes double canine teeth in dogs?
Double canine teeth occur when the deciduous (baby) canine tooth fails to shed, causing the adult canine tooth to grow alongside it.

Are double canine teeth harmful to dogs?
Yes, they can cause dental crowding, misalignment, discomfort, and increase the risk of periodontal disease if left untreated.

How can I tell if my dog has double canine teeth?
You may notice two canine teeth side by side in the same location, or observe difficulty chewing, bad breath, or gum inflammation.

What should I do if my dog has double canine teeth?
Consult a veterinarian or veterinary dentist promptly; treatment often involves extraction of the retained deciduous tooth to prevent complications.

Can double canine teeth affect my dog’s overall health?
If untreated, they can lead to oral infections and pain, which may impact eating habits and overall well-being. Early intervention is essential.
It is not uncommon for dogs to exhibit what appears to be double canine teeth, especially during certain stages of their dental development. This condition typically occurs when a puppy’s adult canine teeth begin to emerge before the deciduous (baby) teeth have fallen out, resulting in a temporary overlap of two sets of canines. While this phenomenon can be alarming to pet owners, it is generally a normal part of the teething process in young dogs.

However, if the double canine teeth persist beyond the expected timeframe or cause discomfort, misalignment, or difficulty in eating, it may indicate retained baby teeth or other dental issues that require veterinary attention. Retained deciduous teeth can lead to complications such as overcrowding, increased risk of periodontal disease, and abnormal wear on the adult teeth. Therefore, timely evaluation and intervention by a veterinarian are essential to ensure optimal oral health.

In summary, while the presence of double canine teeth can be a normal developmental stage in puppies, it is important for dog owners to monitor their pet’s dental health closely. Regular veterinary check-ups and dental assessments can help identify any abnormalities early and prevent potential complications. Maintaining good oral hygiene and addressing any dental concerns promptly will contribute significantly to a dog’s overall well-being and quality

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.