How Many Teeth Do Dogs Have? Puppy vs. Adult Teeth Explained
Adult dogs have 42 teeth. Puppies have 28 baby teeth. That is 10 more teeth than a grown human, who has 32. Dogs grow two full sets of teeth, just like people do, but on a much faster clock. The first tiny teeth show up around 2 to 4 weeks old. Most dogs have their full adult smile by 6 or 7 months old. So how many teeth do dogs have at each stage of life? Below, we break down the full puppy and adult count, what each tooth does, and how to spot a dental problem early.
In this article
- How many teeth do puppies have?
- How many teeth do adult dogs have?
- When do puppy teeth fall out?
- Do all dog breeds have the same number of teeth?
- How do dog teeth compare to other animals?
- How can you tell if a dog has a dental problem?
- Frequently asked questions
How many teeth do puppies have?
Puppies are born with no teeth at all. Their first tiny teeth push through around 2 to 4 weeks old. By 6 to 8 weeks old, most puppies have a full set of 28 baby teeth. Vets call these "deciduous" teeth, which just means they are made to fall out later.
Baby teeth include incisors, canines, and premolars. Puppies do not have molars yet. Those come in later, only with the adult set. This is also why a teething puppy's mouth feels like a row of tiny needles. Those baby teeth are sharp so they can nip and chew as your puppy explores the world.
How many teeth do adult dogs have?
A full-grown dog has 42 permanent teeth. That breaks down to 20 teeth in the upper jaw and 22 in the lower jaw. Each tooth type has its own job, from gripping to grinding.
| Tooth type | How many | What they do |
|---|---|---|
| Incisors | 12 | Small front teeth used for nibbling and grooming fur |
| Canines | 4 | The long, pointed "fangs" used to grip and tear |
| Premolars | 16 | Used to shear and break food into smaller pieces |
| Molars | 10 | Flat back teeth used to crush and grind, adult teeth only |
Add those up and you get 42 teeth in total. According to the American Kennel Club, this full adult set is normal for nearly every dog breed, from a tiny Chihuahua to a Great Dane.
Soft, relaxed, and made for the person who checks their dog's teeth as often as their own.
When do puppy teeth fall out?
Around 3 to 4 months old, a puppy's baby teeth start to loosen. This happens because the adult teeth underneath begin pushing up and out. By about 6 to 7 months old, most dogs have their complete set of 42 adult teeth.
You may never actually find the missing baby teeth. Most puppies swallow them while eating or playing, and that is normal and safe. The tooth is tiny and passes through without any trouble. If you do find one on the floor, there is no need to worry. It just means a new adult tooth is on its way in.
Do all dog breeds have the same number of teeth?
Most dogs, no matter the breed, grow all 42 adult teeth. But the fit is not always the same. Flat-faced breeds like French Bulldogs, Pugs, and Boston Terriers have shorter jaws, so their full set of teeth can end up crowded or turned sideways. That crowding can trap food and raise the risk of gum problems.
Small and toy breeds, like Chihuahuas and Yorkies, are more likely to have a "retained" baby tooth. That is when a baby tooth does not fall out on schedule and the adult tooth grows in right next to it. A vet may need to pull the stuck baby tooth so the adult tooth has room to sit correctly.
How do dog teeth compare to other animals?
Forty-two teeth sounds like a lot, but dogs are not the top of the list. Here is how their mouths stack up against a few other familiar animals.
| Animal | Adult tooth count |
|---|---|
| Dogs | 42 |
| Cats | 30 |
| Humans | 32 |
| Horses | 36 to 44, depending on sex |
Kittens follow a similar path to puppies. They grow 26 baby teeth first, then lose them for a set of 30 adult teeth. Curious about the rest of a cat's timeline? Read our guide on how long cats live for more on their full life stages.
How can you tell if a dog has a dental problem?
Dental disease is common, and it often hides in plain sight. VCA Animal Hospitals reports that over 80% of dogs older than three years already have some active dental disease. Watch for these signs:
- Bad breath that goes beyond normal "dog breath"
- Red or swollen gums, especially along the gumline
- Yellow or brown buildup on the teeth, known as tartar
- Dropping food or chewing only on one side
- Pawing at the mouth or rubbing the face on furniture
- Loose or missing teeth in an adult dog
Regular brushing, dental chews, and yearly vet checkups all help catch problems early. Most dogs do best with brushing a few times a week, and daily if your dog will let you.
Pour your coffee, then take 10 seconds to check your dog's teeth and gums while you drink it.
Frequently asked questions
How many teeth do puppies lose in total?
Puppies lose all 28 of their baby teeth. Those get replaced by 42 adult teeth. The extra 14 teeth are new molars, which only grow in with the adult set.
Is it safe if my puppy swallows a baby tooth?
Yes. Most puppies swallow their lost baby teeth without ever noticing, usually while eating or chewing a toy. The teeth are tiny and pass through safely.
What is a retained baby tooth?
A retained baby tooth is one that does not fall out on time, even after the adult tooth has already grown in next to it. This is more common in small and toy breeds. A vet may need to remove it to protect the adult tooth and gums.
How many teeth does a cat have?
Kittens have 26 baby teeth. Adult cats have 30 permanent teeth, which is 12 fewer than an adult dog.
Do dogs get cavities like humans do?
Dogs can get cavities, but it happens far less often than in people. Dogs are much more likely to develop periodontal disease, which affects the gums and the bone around the teeth, rather than tooth decay itself.
How often should I brush my dog's teeth?
Most vets recommend brushing a dog's teeth at least a few times a week, and daily if possible. Use a dog-safe toothpaste, since human toothpaste can upset a dog's stomach.
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