Shih Tzu Teeth
Shih Tzu Teeth:- Maintaining your Shih Tzu’s dental health is not just about keeping their smile cute and bright; it’s essential for their overall well-being. Dental issues, such as plaque buildup, gum disease, and tooth decay, can lead to far more serious health problems if not addressed properly. Just as with humans, poor dental hygiene in dogs can contribute to conditions like heart disease, liver issues, and kidney problems. Taking care of your Shih Tzu’s teeth from an early age is crucial for keeping them healthy and happy for years to come.
The Shih Tzu Teething Process: What to Expect
Like all dogs, Shih Tzus go through a teething process that can be broken down into five distinct stages. Knowing what to expect at each stage can help you better manage your puppy’s discomfort and make sure their teeth grow in properly.
1. Stage One: 2 to 4 Weeks Old
At just 2 weeks old, a Shih Tzu puppy is still dependent on its mother for nutrition, and its eyes are usually still closed. Despite being so young, this is when their first teeth start to appear. By 3 to 4 weeks old, the incisors and canines begin to push through their gums, marking the start of their teething journey.
2. Stage Two: 5 to 6 Weeks Old
By the time Shih Tzu puppies reach 6 weeks, they will have around 28 teeth, including their sharp, pointed premolars. This is an important time for weaning the puppy off their mother’s milk and introducing them to soft puppy food. The small, sharp teeth at this stage are often called “needle teeth” because of how they feel when puppies nip or chew on objects.
3. Stage Three: 8 to 12 Weeks Old
At around 8 weeks of age, most Shih Tzu puppies are ready to be rehomed. By this time, they have a full set of puppy teeth, and like all puppies, they love to chew on everything. Teething is still in full swing, and their milk teeth begin to fall out around the 12-week mark to make room for their adult teeth.
4. Stage Four: 12 to 16 Weeks Old
This stage can be tough for both the puppy and their owner. As the adult teeth start to come in, the deciduous (or baby) teeth begin to fall out. It’s common to find small, rice-sized teeth around the house or lodged in your puppy’s toys. You might also notice your puppy’s drool turning slightly pink due to the gums being irritated. While a small amount of blood is normal, excessive bleeding should be checked by a veterinarian. Shih Tzus sometimes retain their baby teeth, a condition known as retained deciduous teeth, which can cause dental problems later on.
5. Stage Five: 6 Months and Older
By the time a Shih Tzu is 7 months old, their adult teeth should be fully grown in. This includes their molars, and any baby teeth should have fallen out. Although most Shih Tzus will have finished teething by this point, the final few teeth can take up to a couple more months to emerge fully. By the end of the process, your Shih Tzu should have around 42 teeth.
Understanding Teething in Shih Tzus
Teething in dogs is a natural developmental stage, much like in human babies. Puppies are born without teeth, but by the time they’re 3 weeks old, they start to grow their first set of teeth, also known as deciduous or milk teeth. These temporary teeth will fall out over time to make way for the adult teeth. In Shih Tzus, teething typically begins around 3 to 4 months old and is usually complete by the time they are 7 to 8 months old.
As their deciduous teeth fall out, the roots are absorbed back into the body, meaning you may not even notice the teeth being lost, as puppies often swallow them. While this is a normal part of the process, the teething stage can be a bit uncomfortable for your puppy.
How Many Teeth Does a Shih Tzu Have?
Despite their small mouths, Shih Tzus have just as many teeth as larger dogs. In total, an adult Shih Tzu will have 42 teeth, which include 12 incisors, 4 canines, 16 premolars, and 10 molars. However, some Shih Tzus may lose teeth due to dental issues, or they may retain some of their baby teeth, which is something to keep an eye on as they grow older.
Symptoms of Teething in Shih Tzus
The teething phase can often go unnoticed since puppies tend to swallow their fallen teeth. However, there are some signs you can look out for to know when your Shih Tzu is teething:
1. Excessive Drooling:
During teething, it’s normal for puppies to drool more than usual.
2. Inflamed Gums:
You might notice some swelling in your puppy’s gums, especially as the new teeth start to push through.
3. Biting and Chewing:
Puppies going through teething tend to chew on anything they can get their mouths on, whether it’s toys, furniture, or shoes.
4. Mild Bleeding:
Some pinkish saliva or blood may be present in your puppy’s mouth as the new teeth break through the gums. If you notice a lot of blood, it’s best to consult with your vet.
Helping Your Shih Tzu Through Teething
Teething can be a challenging time for your puppy, but there are several ways you can help ease their discomfort:
Offer Chew Toys
Giving your Shih Tzu a variety of chew toys designed for teething can help soothe their sore gums. Many pet stores offer a range of teething toys, but you can also make some at home. For example, you can stuff an old sock with a ball and tie a knot at the end for a simple homemade chew toy. Just ensure the ball is large enough that your puppy can’t swallow it.
Frozen Treats
Frozen toys or treats can be great for numbing the pain in your puppy’s gums. You can try freezing a wet washcloth for them to chew on or give them cold carrots or apples to gnaw at.
Homemade Teething Toys
Another simple DIY toy is a plastic bottle with treats inside. Take an empty plastic bottle, remove the labels and cap, and poke some holes in it. Add a few treats inside, and your puppy will have fun trying to get them out while relieving some of their teething pain.
Conclusion
Teething is a natural part of your Shih Tzu’s development and, while it may cause some discomfort, there are plenty of ways to help them through the process. By understanding the different stages of teething and taking steps to ensure good dental health, you can set your puppy up for a lifetime of healthy teeth and overall well-being.
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