Dogs' teeth are for eating and playing with. Dogs' teeth are different from human teeth. Dogs have teeth that are a lot sharper. This is intended to catch and tear up their prey. A dog is a true carnivore descended from the wolf.
In principle, every purebred dog has the same set of teeth. In smaller dogs, the teeth are often a bit smaller and in larger dogs often a bit larger. Some dog breeds have a somewhat shorter snout (brachiocephals; for example, a Boxer, English Bulldog, Pug, etc.) and others have a somewhat longer snout (for example, a Golden Retriever, Labrador, Sheepdog, Border Collie, etc.). Yet they have the same number of teeth in their teeth. It is more common for dogs with a shorter muzzle to have crooked teeth and molars.
Puppies start growing their milk teeth at about 2 weeks. Then the first teeth are visible and they are usually fully grown after 8 weeks. The primary dentition has a total of 28 teeth. They consist of 4 canines, 12 molars and 12 incisors. Milk teeth are short-lived. When your dog is between 3 and 7 months old, the teeth change begins. A dog with fully grown teeth has 42 teeth. These consist of 4 canines, 12 incisors, 10 cusp teeth and 16 cutting teeth. These teeth really show that dogs are descended from the wolf and are real carnivores. Especially because of the cusp (molars) and cutting teeth (premolars). These teeth are extremely sharp and are designed to cut meat into pieces for easy swallowing.
Chewing snacks and chewing bars are good for your dog's teeth. Think of it as a very effective addition to their dental care. Chewing is known to clean the teeth well, which in turn prevents dental plaque and can strengthen the gums well. The jaw strength of dogs is often (depending on the breed) quite strong, and it is essential that it should be trained properly. Many different brands respond to this. However, it is important to ensure that when you take a chew that it is as natural as possible. A chew with added sugar or colorings is obviously not good for your teeth. Also, do not choose bones that have splinters. Softer natural snacks do not necessarily have a positive effect on teeth. It is true that with some snacks - such as with fish snacks - the dog licks extra along the teeth and around the mouth to get rid of the last bit of taste.
Puppies also need to train their jaws. They can do this best by gnawing and chewing. This also reduces their stress. Especially for puppies between 3 and 7 months, when they change their teeth, they often want to over bite. By chewing it soothes their pain and it also promotes the change of teeth. This makes the exchange process more pleasant. A puppy also has to discover what his teeth can do. Giving different types of chews to experiment with is recommended for this!
