There is a condition prone to puppies called malocclusion, which means that their bit does not fit right. This misalignment of the teeth is common and usually does not affect the dog’s ability to eat. However, as the dog grows older, the condition can get worse or could correct itself.
By the time a puppy is about 6 months old he should have about 28 teeth. Those teeth are sharp and pointy so make sure your small children are careful while playing with a puppy. By the time the puppy reaches adulthood, he should have 42 teeth.
Ordinary tribulations that can occur from malocclusion are mouth injuries, wear on the teeth and fractures in the mouth. Depending on the severity of the malocclusion, its best if you have a vet check it out to recommend if you need medical intervention. Make sure that your dog is not experiencing difficulty eating due to their malocclusion.
While there are many breeds with this affliction naturally, the overbite and underbite are the most common malocclusion. Most dogs seem to be unaffected by this problem. The scissor bite is also most common, except in the flat nose breeds.
When you are looking for a pure breed dog there are certain characteristics that are common to their breed. The scissor bite is one of those malocclusions that is not common in the flat nosed dogs like Boxers, Shih Tsuz and Lhasa Apsos’. If the dog has a scissor bite, then you might not be getting a purebred.
It is not uncommon for puppies to be born with gaps in their teeth. These gaps will usually correct themselves as the puppy gets older and his adult teeth come in. If the problem does not correct by around the 10-month mark, it likely will not correct itself.
When adult teeth start coming in, this can cause the condition to worsen. Damage to the soft part of the mouth can occur and your vet might need to intervene. All your vet would need to do is extract a tooth or two to correct the problem.
Depending on the severity, you might just want to consult your vet for their opinion. I have heard of situation where puppies have been fitted with braces, but I do not think I am ready for that. What will they think of next; contact lenses?
I do feel we owe it to our pets to make their life comfortable. Be consistent with their checkups and vaccinations to extend the life of your dog. After all, they are your family too.
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