PetMath GuideDog Dental Care5 min read

How Many Teeth Do Dogs Have?

Adult dogs have 42 permanent teeth, while puppies usually have 28 baby teeth. The number changes as puppies lose baby teeth and grow their adult set, usually during the first several months of life.

How Many Teeth Dogs Have

Adult dogs usually have 42 teeth: 20 on the upper jaw and 22 on the lower jaw. Puppies usually have 28 baby teeth before their adult teeth come in.

Life stageNumber of teethWhat to know

Puppy28 baby teethTemporary teeth used before the adult set comes in.

Adult dog42 permanent teeth20 upper teeth and 22 lower teeth.

Human adult comparison32 permanent teethDogs have more adult teeth than humans.

Dog Teeth by Type

Dog teeth have different jobs, so the count is split across the front, sides, and back of the mouth.

Incisors: small front teeth used for nibbling, grooming, and picking up small pieces.
Canines: long pointed teeth used for gripping and tearing.
Premolars: side teeth used for shearing and chewing.
Molars: back teeth used for grinding and crushing food.

Puppy Teeth and Adult Teeth

Puppies are not born with visible teeth. Baby teeth erupt first, then fall out as adult teeth push through.

StageTypical timingOwner note

Baby teeth eruptAround 3-4 weeksPuppy teeth are small and sharp.

Baby teeth begin falling outAround 3-4 monthsYou may find tiny teeth or notice chewing.

Adult teeth coming inSeveral months of ageRetained baby teeth should be checked.

When Tooth Loss Is a Problem

Puppy tooth loss is normal; adult tooth loss is not. Loose adult teeth, bad breath, bleeding gums, swelling, drooling, or trouble chewing can point to dental disease or injury.

Brush your dog's teeth with dog-safe toothpaste when possible.
Use dental chews or diets that match your dog's size and chewing style.
Check the mouth regularly for broken, loose, or retained teeth.
Ask about dental health during routine wellness visits.

FAQ

Do all dog breeds have 42 teeth?

Adult dogs are expected to have 42 permanent teeth, regardless of breed. Small and toy breeds may be more prone to retained puppy teeth or crowding, so dental checks still matter.

How many teeth does a puppy have?

Puppies usually have 28 baby teeth. These temporary teeth are replaced by adult teeth as the puppy grows.

Is it normal for adult dogs to lose teeth?

No. Puppy teeth falling out is normal, but adult tooth loss usually points to dental disease, injury, or another problem that should be checked.

Do dogs have wisdom teeth?

Dogs do not have wisdom teeth like humans do. Their adult dental formula includes incisors, canines, premolars, and molars.