How many teeth does a Shih Tzu have?

Shih Tzu dogs are a small breed, typically weighing between 9 to 16 pounds and standing 8 to 11 inches tall. Like all dogs, Shih Tzu have a set of deciduous (baby) teeth and a set of permanent teeth. The number of teeth a Shih Tzu has can vary slightly from dog to dog, but there are some general guidelines.

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How many teeth does a Shih Tzu have?

Baby teeth

Shih Tzu puppies are born without teeth, and their baby teeth typically start to emerge around 3-4 weeks of age. By the time a Shih Tzu puppy is 8 weeks old, they will have a full set of baby teeth, which consists of 28 teeth total. This includes 14 teeth on the upper jaw (6 incisors, 2 canines, and 6 premolars) and 14 teeth on the lower jaw (6 incisors, 2 canines, and 6 premolars).

Adult teeth

As a Shih Tzu puppy grows, their baby teeth will start to fall out and be replaced by their adult teeth. This process typically starts around 4-5 months of age and is complete by 6-7 months of age. Shih Tzu have a total of 42 adult teeth, which includes 20 teeth on the upper jaw (6 incisors, 2 canines, 8 premolars, and 4 molars) and 22 teeth on the lower jaw (6 incisors, 2 canines, 8 premolars, and 6 molars).

Dental health

Like all dogs, it’s important to maintain the dental health of your Shih Tzu. This includes regular brushing, dental checkups, and appropriate chew toys to help clean their teeth. Neglecting dental health can lead to a variety of dental issues, including tooth decay, gum disease, and tooth loss.

It’s also important to note that some Shih Tzu may have dental issues that require veterinary attention. This can include misaligned teeth, extra teeth, or teeth that are slow to fall out. It’s important to consult with a veterinarian if you have any concerns about your Shih Tzu’s dental health.

Summary

In summary, Shih Tzu puppies have a full set of baby teeth consisting of 28 teeth, while adult Shih Tzu have a total of 42 teeth. Maintaining proper dental health is important for the overall health and well-being of your Shih Tzu.

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