Dog Dentition: Dental Formula, Types of Dentition, and What

What is a dog's dentition?

A dog's dentition refers to all of its teeth and their occlusal relationship—that is, the way the upper and lower teeth come together. An adult dog has 42 permanent teeth, while a puppy has 28 baby teeth.

In cynology, the term "dentition" refers both to the number and arrangement of teeth and to the type of bite (occlusion): scissor bite, pincer bite, overshot bite, or undershot bite. These characteristics are specified in breed standards and are evaluated during breeding and at dog shows.

Background + Scientific Context

Evans and de Lahunta (2013, Miller’s Anatomy of the Dog, 4th ed.) describe the dental formula of the dog: The adult dentition consists of incisors (I), canines (C), premolars (P), and molars ( M). Total dental formula: I 3/3 · C 1/1 · P 4/4 · M 2/3 = 42 teeth. Deciduous dentition: I 3/3 · C 1/1 · P 0/0 · M 3/3 = 28 deciduous teeth (no premolars in the deciduous dentition). Function by tooth type: incisors for biting, canines for gripping and holding, premolars for shearing and tearing, molars for chewing and grinding.

Gorrel (2008, *Veterinary Dentistry for the General Practitioner*) describes the classification of occlusion in dogs: Scissors bite: Normal occlusion—the labial surface of the lower incisors contacts the palatal surface of the upper incisors; the canines interlock in an opposite direction. Level/pincer bite: The incisal edges of the upper and lower jaws meet — increased abrasion wear. Prognathism (overbite/underbite): The lower jaw protrudes in front of the upper jaw (mandibular prognathism) — normal in brachycephalic breeds (Boxer, English Bulldog). Brachygnathism (overbite/snap bite): The upper jaw protrudes beyond the lower jaw. Crossbite: Individual teeth are laterally misaligned.

Wiggs and Lobprise (1997, *Veterinary Dentistry: Principles and Practice*) describe the clinical significance of dental anomalies: malocclusions increase the risk of periodontitis, dental trauma (teeth coming into contact with soft tissue), and chewing problems. The carnassial tooth (upper premolar 4 / lower molar 1—the fourth premolar of the upper jaw and the first molar of the lower jaw) is the largest and functionally most important tooth in dogs—it forms the scissor joint for shredding meat.

Vitomalia-Position

A dog’s dentition is a key factor in its nutrition, behavior, and well-being. Dental abnormalities can cause pain and feeding difficulties—and in breeding animals, they are relevant to breed standards. Regular dental care and checkups are part of basic care, regardless of breed or dental structure.

When does the denture become relevant?

• Breed Evaluation and Breeding: Jaw Structure as an FCI Standard Feature
• Dental Assessment: Number and Position of Teeth
• Puppy Development: Teething (3–7 months), Persistent Deciduous Teeth
• Jaw abnormalities: pain when Eat, chewing on one side, excessive salivation
• Veterinary Dentistry: Diagnosis of Malocclusion Prior to Orthodontic Evaluation

Practical application

Dental formula for adult dogs:

An overview of bite types: - Scissor bite: Normal bite, optimal function, standard in most breeds - Scissor bite: A slight overbite is permitted in a few breeds; increased tooth wear - Underbite (prognathism): Normal in Boxers, Bulldogs, and Pugs — Abnormal in other breeds - Overbite (snapping bite/brachygnathism): Almost always a malocclusion — soft tissue trauma is possible - Crossbite: One or more teeth are misaligned

Common Mistakes & Myths

• “A dog with an overbite has a malocclusion.” In brachycephalic breeds such as Boxers and Bulldogs, an overbite is a breed standard and considered normal—in other breeds, it is a malocclusion. A context-dependent assessment is necessary.
• “Every dog should have 42 teeth.” A reduced number of teeth (oligodontia) is common in some breeds—especially missing premolars. In breeding evaluations, missing teeth are often grounds for disqualification, but in everyday life, they do not necessarily require treatment.
• “Bite alignment is only important for show dogs.” Malocclusion can lead to dental trauma, periodontitis, and pain. A veterinary examination is recommended for any significant malocclusion, regardless of breeding intentions.

State of the Art in 2026

Veterinary dentistry is an established specialty. Dental anomalies in dogs are systematically classified (AVDC—American Veterinary Dental College nomenclature). Current research focuses on the genetic basis of jaw and occlusion abnormalities in predisposed breeds. Orthodontic interventions in dogs are limited to clearly indicated cases (soft tissue trauma, difficulty eating).

Frequently Asked Questions

How many teeth does a dog have?

Adult dogs have 42 permanent teeth (18 upper, 24 lower). Puppies have 28 baby teeth, which are replaced by permanent teeth between 3 and 7 months of age.

What is a scissor bite in dogs?

The scissor bite is the normal bite pattern in dogs: the labial surfaces of the lower incisors lightly touch the palatal surfaces of the upper incisors. This bite pattern allows for optimal function and minimal wear.

Does a dog with an underbite need treatment?

It depends on the breed and the severity. In brachycephalic breeds (Boxers, Bulldogs), an overbite is normal. In other breeds or in cases of soft tissue trauma (where the teeth injure the palate), a veterinary dental examination is necessary.

Related terms

• Dental Care for Dogs
• Teeth Changing in Dogs
• Canine Anatomy
• Canine Science
• Gum inflammation in dogs

Sources & Further Reading

1. Evans, H. E., & de Lahunta, A. (2013). Miller's Anatomy of the Dog (4th ed.). Elsevier. ISBN 9781437702460.

2. Gorrel, C. (2008). Veterinary Dentistry for the General Practitioner. Saunders. ISBN 9780702028779.

3. Wiggs, R. B., & Lobprise, H. B. (1997). Veterinary Dentistry: Principles and Practice. Lippincott-Raven. ISBN 9780397512607.