Teeth are the secret behind the German shepherd’s strength, loyalty, and activeness. When they feel threatened, it is their first line of attack that they use. Having powerful teeth, there is much more to explore about German shepherd teeth, and it is important to know everything so that we can take care of them in the best possible manner.
After all, oral health is a common issue, and as German teeth are their strong point and they rely on them for a number of things, it is necessary that they are taken care of properly. So, without wasting a minute more, let’s learn all the important aspects of the shepherd’s teeth.
All you need to know about German shepherd teeth
Tooth care for the German shepherd is as important as it is for human beings. Right from the puppy months to when it becomes an adult, you have to take care of the teeth and oral health from the very beginning. Not only important for their health but also for their well-being and good behavior, right dental care plays a crucial role. So, let’s start and see how it develops from the beginning.
Teething stages
Shepherds are not born with teeth, but they start developing normally two or three weeks after birth. Known as milk teeth, puppies will develop 28 teeth when they are about 8 weeks old.
Soon after they reach the age of 3 months, they will start losing the milk teeth, and adult teeth will grow. For each dog, the teeth growing can take different times. Usually, the teething phase will end as they reach the age of 7 or 8 months, but it can take more or less time with each dog.
As an adult, a German shepherd will have 42 teeth in total, of which 12 incisors, also known as front teeth, 16 premolars which normally stop coming through after the age of 6 weeks. Plus, 4 canine teeth and 10 molars are developed, where each tooth has its own function.
Teething signs in puppies
Teething is a process that takes time, and you will know about it with a couple of signs. For example, you will notice puppies will start chewing everything that comes in their sight. They will chew more than usual, and you might see blood spots on chewing toys. The gums will turn red and look sore; this may cause the German shepherd to behave abruptly for the time being. Similarly, the shepherd might suffer from mild fever, and you will see more saliva coming out of their mouth.
These are all signs of the teething process, and it shouldn’t worry you at all. Instead, take more care and don’t take long to visit the veterinarian if you find something unusual.
Dental disease
Common to all pets, it can affect the German shepherd as early as in the first year. It begins with tartar buildup and then leads to infection and other issues in the mouth. Let alone pain, discomfort, gingivitis, and infection; almost every major health problem starts because of not taking care of the mouth and dental care. Be it joint pain, kidney diseases, or heart problem, when examined; the root cause seems to be the oral and tooth condition. Shortening the life span, not taking dental care of your German shepherd will put your partner at severe risk.
Dental care
Taking Care of your shepherd’s mouth is crucial as eating food is not the only thing that requires strong teeth. Bite power is a great element of German shepherds that makes them perfect guard dogs. If you notice a bad smell, swollen gums, or have tartar buildup, it shows that you are not taking good care of the oral health.
The right steps not only make German shepherds healthier but also makes them happy. Let’s see what you should do in this regard.
Brushing is among the first things to do, though it is not enough alone. The key is to start early so that the shepherd develops the habit and will not create problems when brushing in adult age. Based on the current condition, do brushing as required. Normally, twice a week is good if there is no deep tartar buildup. Keep in mind that you use a dog’s toothbrush that you can have from the nearest pet store.
Besides regular brushing, see what you are giving to feed. Dry food is more suitable for the dog as it does not produce plaque but helps remove it. Moreover, dry food helps strengthen bones and digest them properly. So, not only for teeth but also in general, dry food is healthier.
Furthermore, providing rawhide to chew not only helps strengthen jaw muscles but will clean the teeth and will remove food particles and residue. A rope toy is another suitable choice for this purpose.
In addition to following the above guidelines, a dental health spray can be used that helps remove plaque and also give fresh breath.
Conclusion
Dental development requires as much attention and care as physical growth; this is why it is necessary that you know all about German shepherd teeth. Shepherds’ dental health is directly related to their overall health. If you want to have a strong and healthy adult German shepherd, you have to take care of oral health from the start. If you have a German shepherd at your home, do let us know how you are taking care of teeth?