Dental Formula - Dog
Overview
Dogs are toothless at birth. Their deciduous teeth are complete and functional within 2 months of birth. Permanent teeth are complete and funtional by the end of the 6th or 7th month.
The formula for deciduous teeth: 2 (I3/3 C1/1 P3/3)
The formula for permanent teeth: 2 (I3/3 C1/1 P4/4 M2/3)
Canines
The canines are large, curved and laterally compressed. Their root is longer than their crown. They have a single root.
Molars
The molars are broader than the premolars. The number of cusps is similar in all breeds, usually two or three.
Incisors
The incisors are tricuspid in the upper jaw and bicuspid in lower jaw. They are smaller rostrally and have a single root.
Premolars
The premolars are irregular and closely-spaced. They are more complex and larger caudally. They have a discontinuous cutting edge on crowns.
Breed Differences
Eruption times differ between breeds so it is difficult to age dogs by their teeth. Brachiocephalic dogs do not possess all of the cheek teeth. They have fused roots and carnasial teeth (upper P4 and lower M1).