Have you ever wondered, why does my dog brush his teeth? While your hairy friend’s jerking jaw may be nothing, there are some underlying causes for concern (think: an undiagnosed medical problem). Below we will explore the possible causes of dog teeth bumping and what to do about it.
-
A dog’s teeth chatter when emotions run high.
Just like humans, dogs can also have emotions. Teeth grinding in dogs can occur when the dog is agitated, nervous, anxious, or experiencing other complex emotions.
“Dogs chattering teeth is normal when they are excited to play, see their owner or prepare to eat,” says Dr. Lauren PastewkaVeterinary director of NewDay Veterinary Care at Pet Paradise. But it’s not just excitement and happiness. Grinding teeth can also be a signs of stress.
What should you do: When it comes to times when your dog is clearly excited, stressed, or anxious, there’s nothing you need to do. Dr. Pastewka says it may just be your dog’s unique way of expressing emotions at the moment.
-
Dog teeth squeak when cold.
um. If you feel chills, your dog may also have a cold. And her body’s response to cold is similar to how a human reacts. Dr Pastewka said: “When a dog is cold, they shiver and their teeth chatter so their bodies generate warmth. This is especially common in short-haired dogs living in colder climates.
What should you do: Dr. Pastewka recommends get your child a sweater or jacket to wear when she goes out.
-
Dogs’ teeth chatter when they are in pain.
Teeth grinding is not normal in your pet? “If it happens suddenly and your dog seems stressed or upset, that is usually a sign that they are in pain,” says Dr. Painful experiences such as gastrointestinal discomfort, TMJ or, less commonly, an ear infection can cause teeth grinding or clenching.
What should you do: Pain = action. If your dog is clearly in pain, Dr. Pastewka recommends scheduling an appointment with your veterinarian to find out the cause.
- Dog teeth squeak when there is a dental problem.
“If your dog is drooling more than usual, has difficulty chewing, has bad breath, or has loose teeth, there may be an oral cavity problem that needs to be treated,” says Dr. “periodontal disease can be painful for dogs.”
One way to detect dental problem: Look for blood stains on your dog’s chew toys or in their water bowl, and look for signs of swelling around or on one side of the mouth, which could be a symptom of gum disease.
What should you do: If you notice any symptoms that could indicate gum disease or dental problems, Dr. Pastewka recommends contacting your veterinarian.
What to do when the cause cannot be determined?
Dr Pastewka says: “Pay attention to the amount of conversation happening and observe the situations in which the conversation occurs. If there are worrying symptoms or a cry that doesn’t stop when the situation is over (for example, it’s not cold or they’re no longer exciting), contact your veterinarian.
