How Many Teeth Do Dogs Have? Puppy vs. Adult Teeth Explained

Ever wonder what’s really going on inside your dog’s mouth? Those toothy grins hold more than just personality. They give important clues about your pet’s health. From the first baby teeth to the full adult set, understanding how many teeth dogs have (and how they change over time) can help you better care for your pet at every stage of life. Whether you’re raising a curious puppy or caring for a senior dog, this guide breaks down everything you need to know about your dog’s dental development. If you have questions about your dog’s teeth or want to schedule a dental checkup, Lagniappe Animal Health in Ruston, LA can help. Call us at (318) 255-3303 or book an appointment online.

How Many Teeth Do Puppies Have?

Puppies are born without any teeth, but their mouths develop quickly. By the time they’re just a few weeks old, their baby teeth, also called deciduous teeth, begin to emerge. Most puppies have 28 baby teeth by the time they are around 6 to 8 weeks old. These include:

• 12 incisors
• 4 canines
• 12 premolars

You might notice that puppies don’t have molars. That’s because molars are part of the adult set and come in later. The sharp baby teeth puppies do have are designed to help them transition from nursing to soft foods.

When Do Puppy Teeth Start to Fall Out?

Puppies begin losing their baby teeth at around 12 weeks of age. This process usually continues until they’re about 6 months old. You might find small teeth on the floor, in toys, or not at all, as many puppies swallow them without issue. During this stage, teething can cause discomfort. Puppies often chew more during this time to soothe their gums. Providing safe chew toys can help redirect this behavior and protect your furniture.

How Many Teeth Do Adult Dogs Have?

Once teething is complete, your dog’s adult set of teeth grows in. Adult dogs typically have 42 permanent teeth, which is quite a jump from the 28 they had as puppies. This includes:

• 12 incisors (6 top, 6 bottom)
• 4 canines (2 top, 2 bottom)
• 16 premolars (8 top, 8 bottom)
• 10 molars (4 top, 6 bottom)

These teeth are built for a variety of tasks: slicing, tearing, and grinding food. As omnivores, dogs need a diverse dental setup to manage everything from kibble to meat.

Why the Extra Teeth?

You might be wondering why adult dogs have so many more teeth than puppies. The biggest addition is the molars, which help grind food. Premolars also increase in number and size. This larger dental structure supports a more varied adult diet and better long-term function.

Differences in Teeth Between Dog Breeds

While the total number of teeth stays consistent across breeds, some differences do exist based on skull shape and size.

Brachycephalic Dogs (Short-Nosed Breeds)

Breeds like Bulldogs, Pugs, and Boston Terriers have short, wide skulls. This can lead to crowded or misaligned teeth, increasing their risk for dental problems. Their teeth may erupt at unusual angles, which can make dental cleanings more important and sometimes more challenging.

Dolichocephalic Dogs (Long-Nosed Breeds)

Collies, Greyhounds, and other long-nosed breeds often have longer jaws and more space between teeth. This spacing may lower their risk for certain dental issues, but food and plaque can still accumulate between teeth, requiring regular cleanings.

Toy and Small Breeds

Small breeds like Chihuahuas and Yorkies often experience retained baby teeth, meaning some deciduous teeth don’t fall out on their own. This can cause overcrowding and increase the risk of tartar buildup, gum disease, or painful tooth misalignment.

What Happens If a Dog Doesn’t Lose All Their Puppy Teeth?

In many cases, the baby teeth fall out naturally as adult teeth push through the gums. But sometimes, especially in small dogs, a puppy tooth may remain in place. This is known as a retained deciduous tooth. When this happens, it can create problems like:

• Crowding of teeth
• Abnormal bite alignment
• Increased risk of periodontal disease
• Tooth decay in both the baby and adult tooth

Veterinarians often recommend removing these retained teeth to protect your dog’s oral health. Spotting and addressing these early can prevent bigger dental issues later in life.

Why Dental Health Matters at Every Stage

Understanding how many teeth dogs have is only part of the picture. Dental care plays a vital role in your dog’s comfort, health, and overall well-being, regardless of age. Dental problems are among the most common health concerns in dogs. Tartar buildup, gum disease, tooth root infections, and fractured teeth can cause pain, inflammation, and even affect organs like the heart and kidneys when left untreated.

Signs Your Dog May Have Dental Issues

Keep an eye out for:

• Bad breath
• Drooling or pawing at the mouth
• Reluctance to eat or chew
• Bleeding gums
• Loose or missing teeth

If you notice any of these signs, it’s important to schedule a dental exam. At Lagniappe Animal Health, we can evaluate your dog’s mouth and recommend appropriate treatment if needed.

What to Expect During a Dog Dental Exam

A dental exam gives your vet a chance to assess your dog’s teeth and gums in detail. During the visit, your vet will:

• Count and examine all teeth
• Look for signs of decay, infection, or retained baby teeth
• Check for gum inflammation and tartar buildup
• Discuss your dog’s diet and at-home dental care routine

In many cases, a professional dental cleaning under anesthesia is recommended to remove plaque and tartar below the gumline. This helps prevent or treat periodontal disease and gives your dog a cleaner, healthier mouth.

Supporting Your Dog’s Dental Health Over Time

Dental care doesn’t end once your dog’s adult teeth come in. In fact, ongoing dental care is one of the most impactful ways to support their health long-term. Here’s how you can help:

• Schedule regular veterinary dental exams
• Provide dental chews or toys that reduce tartar buildup
• Ask your vet about prescription dental diets if appropriate
• Brush your dog’s teeth at home with pet-safe toothpaste (if recommended by your vet)

Taking proactive steps with your dog’s dental care can make a major difference in their comfort and quality of life. If you’re unsure where to start, our team at Saratoga Veterinary Hospital is here to walk you through the process.

Know What’s Normal in Your Dog’s Smile

Understanding how many teeth dogs have and how their teeth grow and change over time gives you valuable insight into your pet’s health. From those first puppy teeth to their full adult set, every tooth has a purpose and a place. Knowing what’s normal helps you recognize when something might be off. If your dog is teething, has lost a tooth, or seems uncomfortable while eating or chewing, we’re here to help. Call Lagniappe Animal Health at (318) 255-3303 or request an appointment online. Let’s keep your dog smiling for years to come.