Dogs are known for their impressive teeth, which are important for a variety of functions including chewing, biting, and tearing food. But how many teeth do dogs have, and what are they called?
First, it’s important to understand that dogs, like humans, have two sets of teeth throughout their lives. The first set, called deciduous teeth or baby teeth, begins to come in at around 3-4 weeks of age and consists of 28 teeth. These teeth are replaced by a second set of permanent teeth, which typically emerge around 6-8 months of age and consists of 42 teeth.
Dogs Normally Have Two Rows Of Teeth
The permanent teeth of a dog can be divided into four main categories: incisors, canines, premolars, and molars. Let’s take a closer look at each of these types of teeth and their functions.
Incisors: Located at the front of the mouth, the incisors are the small, sharp teeth used for biting and tearing food. Dogs have six incisors on the top jaw and six on the bottom, for a total of 12 incisors.
Canines: Also known as the “fangs,” the canines are the long, pointed teeth located next to the incisors. Dogs have four canines, two on the top jaw and two on the bottom. These teeth are used for grasping and tearing food, as well as for defensive purposes.
Premolars: Located behind the canines, the premolars are used for grinding and crushing food. Dogs have eight premolars on the top jaw and eight on the bottom, for a total of 16 premolars.
Molars: Located at the back of the mouth, the molars are the largest and strongest teeth in a dog’s mouth. They are used for grinding and crushing food, as well as for chewing. Dogs have six molars on the top jaw and six on the bottom, for a total of 12 molars.
It’s worth noting that the teeth of a dog can vary slightly depending on the breed. For example, some breeds may have additional teeth, such as a third set of molars or a premolar known as a “carnassial,” which is adapted for shearing and slicing meat.
In addition to their function in chewing food, a dog’s teeth are also important for maintaining overall oral health. Regular teeth brushing and dental check-ups can help prevent problems such as tooth decay and gum disease, which can lead to more serious health issues if left untreated.
Which Breeds Have Three Rows Of Teeth?
Some breeds have an extra set of teeth, known as a “third row” of teeth. These extra teeth are known as premolars, and they are located behind the regular premolars in the back of the mouth.
Doberman Pinscher
One breed of dog that is known for having a third row of teeth is the Doberman Pinscher. These intelligent and athletic dogs are known for their strong jaws and sharp teeth, which are necessary for their original role as guard dogs. Doberman Pinschers typically have a total of 48 teeth, with four extra premolars in the back of their mouths.
Afghan Hound
Another breed of dog with a third row of teeth is the Afghan Hound. These elegant and graceful dogs are known for their long, silky coats and athletic abilities. Afghan Hounds typically have a total of 50 teeth, with six extra premolars in the back of their mouths.
Rottweiler
The Rottweiler is another breed of dog that is known for its strong jaws and sharp teeth, including a third row of premolars. These intelligent and confident dogs were originally bred as working dogs, and they have a total of 50 teeth, with six extra premolars in the back of their mouths.
Greyhound
The Greyhound is a breed of dog that is known for its athletic abilities and speed. Greyhounds have a total of 42 teeth, but some individuals may have extra premolars in the back of their mouths, giving them a third row of teeth.
Additional Breeds
Other breeds of dogs that may have a third row of teeth include the Irish Wolfhound, the Mastiff, and the Saint Bernard. These breeds are all known for their large size and strong jaws, and they may have extra premolars in the back of their mouths to help with chewing and grinding food.
Conclusion
So, to answer the question of how many teeth do dogs have, the answer is that it depends on the age of the dog and the type of tooth. A young puppy will have 28 baby teeth, while an adult dog will have 42 permanent teeth.
These teeth include incisors, canines, premolars, and molars, which all play important roles in the dog’s ability to chew and process food. By taking good care of their teeth, dogs can maintain good oral health and enjoy a healthy diet throughout their lives.
