Why do dogs have double rows of teeth?

Reasons for Double Rows of Teeth in Dogs

1. If the dog does not supplement calcium in time during the teeth changing period from four months to twelve months, or the aging teeth are not fully worn, double rows of teeth may appear.

2. Insufficient oral space. If the dog’s oral space is insufficient, the deciduous teeth and permanent teeth will be squeezed together when the deciduous teeth have not fallen out and the permanent teeth have grown. Then the deciduous teeth will not fall out and the permanent teeth will not grow well. Double rows of teeth occur. This happens mostly in small dogs.

3. Genetics. Some unscrupulous businesses will buy dogs with physical defects at low prices, use them for breeding, and then sell puppies to make a profit. Among physical defects, there are oral deformities with a high heritability, such as double rows of teeth.

The dangers of double rows of teeth in dogs

1. Affect the growth of permanent teeth

If the dog’s deciduous teeth do not fall off completely, the permanent teeth will grow slowly, the enamel layer will be thin, and the structure will be weak, occupying the space of the gums, squeezing the permanent teeth and causing permanent tooth deformities, which will affect the dog’s daily eating. Because the bite has become deformed.

2. Difficult to clean

The gaps between the teeth of the double-row teeth are relatively sparse, and food residues are easy to remain, which not only increases the difficulty of cleaning, but also leads to bad breath and increases the incidence of dental calculus.

3. The growth of bacteria

Dogs with double rows of teeth are more likely to breed bacteria in the mouth, which can lead to dog oral diseases. What's more serious is that it will affect the dog's kidneys and heart. Therefore, dogs with double rows of teeth will have a shorter life span than dogs with normal teeth.