Shiba Inu Teeth Complete Guide! Problems & Cleaning!

The Shiba Inu is a small to medium-sized breed of dog that originated in Japan. Like all dogs, Shiba Inus have teeth that require proper care and maintenance.

However, Shiba Inus may be more prone to certain dental problems due to their unique physiology and anatomy.

In addition, you may want to learn how to brush your Shiba Inus teeth. Brushing your canines’ teeth plays a fundamental in care and maintenance and is part of grooming.

By properly caring for your Shiba’s teeth, you can help prevent dental problems and ensure that your furry friend maintains a healthy mouth and overall good health.

In this article, I’ll take you through some concerns on Shiba Inu teeth that Shiba Inus owners shouldn’t miss and discuss the importance of regularly brushing your Shiba’s teeth.

First, you may want to know how sharp Shiba Inus teeth are, let’s see that below;

Why Do Shibas Show Teeth?

Shiba Inus may show their teeth for a number of reasons. One common reason is when they are feeling threatened or scared

Shiba Inus are a breed of dog that was originally bred for hunting, and they have a natural instinct to protect themselves.

When they feel threatened, they may show their teeth as a warning to the perceived threat to back off.

Another reason that Shiba Inus may show their teeth is when they are feeling aggressive. Shiba Inus can be territorial and may show their teeth to assert their dominance over a person or another animal.

They may also show their teeth when they are feeling possessive over a toy or food.

Shiba Inus may also show their teeth when they are feeling excited or happy. This is often seen when they are playing or greeting their owners.

In this case, the teeth showing is not aggressive, but rather a sign of excitement and joy.

It’s important for Shiba Inu owners to recognize the difference between aggressive teeth showing and excited or happy teeth showing.

This can help prevent misunderstandings and potential conflicts with other people or animals. Proper training and socialization can also help prevent aggressive teeth showing in Shiba Inus.

Do Shiba Inus Have Sharp Teeth?

Shiba Inus are a breed of dog known for their sharp teeth. Like most dogs, Shiba Inus have two sets of teeth – puppy teeth and adult teeth.

The puppy teeth are sharper and can cause injuries, especially during the teething phase. This is the duration when your canine friend is transitioning from puppy teeth to adult teeth.

During the teething phase, which usually occurs between 4 and 10 months of age, Shiba Inus will experience discomfort as their puppy teeth are replaced with their adult teeth.

This can cause them to chew on objects to alleviate their discomfort, leading to potential injuries if those objects are hard or sharp.

Additionally, the sharpness of their puppy teeth can cause injuries to their owners or other animals if they accidentally bite or nip.

To prevent injuries, it is important for owners to provide safe and appropriate toys for their Shiba Inu to chew on during the teething phase.

They should also supervise their dog and train them not to bite or nip.

Regular dental care, including brushing their teeth and providing dental treats, can also help prevent tooth and gum problems that can lead to sharpness and discomfort.

While Shiba Inus have sharp teeth, proper care and training can prevent injuries and maintain their dental health.

Shiba Inu Teeth Problems

Dental Plaque and Tartar

Tooth Decay

Periodontal Disease

Broken Teeth

Tooth Loss

Malocclusion

What’s more;

Dental plaque and tartar buildup: Plaque is a sticky film of bacteria that forms on teeth and can harden into tartar if not removed regularly through brushing and professional cleaning.

This can cause inflammation and infection of the gums, leading to gum disease and tooth loss.

Tooth decay: Tooth decay, also known as cavities, is caused by bacteria in the mouth breaking down tooth enamel and causing holes in the teeth. This can lead to pain, infection, and tooth loss.

Periodontal disease: Periodontal disease is an infection of the gums and supporting structures of the teeth. It can cause pain, swelling, and tooth loss if left untreated.

Broken or fractured teeth: Shiba Inus are known for their strong jaws and can sometimes break or fracture their teeth while chewing on hard objects. This can cause pain and infection, and may require extraction of the tooth.

Malocclusion: Malocclusion is when the teeth do not align properly, causing difficulty in biting and chewing. This can lead to problems with the jaw and discomfort for the dog.

Abscesses: An abscess is a pocket of pus that forms around the tooth or in the gums. It can cause pain and discomfort for the dog, and may require antibiotics or tooth extraction to treat.

Shiba Inu Teeth Falling Out (Why It Happens)

Shiba Inu teeth falling out is majorly due to a periodontal disease that progresses to infect the gums and teeth roots; however, it can the puppy teeth coming out.

Shiba Inu teeth may be falling out to allow for the onset of adult teeth, especially if it happens between the 4 and 10 months.

Shiba Inus are prone to dental problems, including tooth loss. This can be due to a number of factors, including genetics, poor dental care, and trauma.

Genetics can play a role in tooth loss in Shiba Inus. Some individuals may be more predisposed to dental problems due to their genetics, making them more likely to experience tooth loss.

Poor dental care can also contribute to tooth loss in Shiba Inus. If a Shiba Inu does not receive regular dental check-ups and cleanings, plaque and tartar can build up on their teeth.

This can lead to tooth decay and infection, ultimately resulting in tooth loss.

Trauma can also cause tooth loss in Shiba Inus. If a Shiba Inu experiences an injury to their mouth, their teeth may become damaged and fall out.

Tooth loss in Shiba Inus can be caused by a combination of genetics, poor dental care, and trauma.

That said, it’s important for owners to provide their Shiba Inus with regular dental check-ups and cleanings to prevent tooth loss and maintain good oral health.

How Many Teeth Do Shiba Inus Have?

An adult Shiba Inu should have 42 teeth which comprise of 12 incisors which are used for grasping, 4 canines used for tearing, 16 premolars, and 8 molars for grinding.

When a Shiba Inu is 20 days old, the upper incisors begin to emerge from the upper jaw. They’re followed by the lower incisors.

Next ate the canines followed by Premolars which should be coming by the 30^th day since the birth of your canine friend.

In about 45 days since birth, the milk teeth start to grow which are followed by the first sets of both premolars and molars.

The puppy incisors start being replaced after around 100 days since birth whereas replacement of premolars begins after 120 days since birth.

A little later, you’ll see the molars before the final replacement of canine teeth begins. Therefore, by 6 to 10 months of age, all Shiba Inu teeth are fully grown.

Shiba Inu Teeth Cleaning: How Do You Clean Shiba Inu Teeth?

Regular Brushing

Use Dental Chews and Toys

Feed A Healthy Diet

Regular Check-Ups

What’s more;

Regular brushing: Using a toothbrush specifically designed for dogs, and toothpaste made for dogs, brush your Shiba Inu’s teeth on a regular basis (ideally daily) to remove plaque and prevent the buildup of tartar.

Provide dental chews and toys: Give your Shiba Inu dental chews and toys that are specifically designed to help clean their teeth and keep their mouth healthy.

These can help remove plaque and tartar as they chew and play.

Feed a healthy diet: Choose a high-quality dog food that is formulated to support dental health. Certify all foods before feeding your canine friend.

Avoid giving your Shiba Inu foods that are high in sugar and carbohydrates, as these can contribute to the formation of plaque and tartar.

Regular dental check-ups: Have your Shiba Inu’s teeth checked by a veterinarian on a regular basis (ideally annually) to identify any problems and to receive professional cleaning if necessary.

This can help keep your dog’s mouth healthy and prevent the development of dental disease.

Shiba Inu Teething Age

The Shiba Inu teething stage typically begins at around 3-4 months of age and lasts until around 6-7 months of age. During this time, the puppy’s baby teeth will fall out and be replaced by adult teeth.

During the teething stage, Shiba Inus may exhibit a range of behaviors such as chewing on objects, increased biting and mouthing, and increased drooling.

These behaviors are normal and are a way for the puppy to relieve the discomfort and pressure caused by the growing teeth.

It is important for owners to provide plenty of safe, chewable toys for their Shiba Inu to chew on during this stage.

This will help to redirect the puppy’s chewing behavior away from inappropriate objects such as furniture and shoes.

It is also important to monitor the puppy’s chewing habits and make sure they are not chewing on objects that could be harmful or dangerous.

It is also important to provide adequate dental care during the teething stage. This includes regular tooth brushing and annual dental check-ups with a veterinarian.

Overall, the Shiba Inu teething stage can be a challenging time for both the puppy and their owner.

However, with proper management and care, it can be a positive and rewarding experience for both parties.

Shiba Inu Teeth Size

Shiba Inu dogs have a small to medium size set of teeth that are relatively proportionate to their overall size.

The breed typically has a total of 42 teeth, with 20 on the top jaw and 22 on the bottom. This includes the four canine teeth, also known as fangs, which are slightly longer and more pointed than the other teeth.

Shiba Inus have a powerful bite due to their strong jaw muscles and elongated canines, which are used for hunting and gripping prey.

However, their teeth are not as large or as sharp as those of some other dog breeds, such as the German Shepherd or Doberman Pinscher.

Proper dental care is important for Shiba Inus to maintain healthy teeth and gums. This includes regular brushing and dental cleanings, as well as providing chew toys to help keep their teeth clean and strong.

By taking care of their teeth, Shiba Inus can avoid common dental issues such as plaque build-up, tooth decay, and gum disease.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Often Should You Brush a Shiba Inu Teeth?

It is recommended to brush a Shiba Inu’s tooth every one or two to prevent dental issues and maintain good oral health.

Failure to that, you risk your Shiba Inu suffering from a number of teeth problems.

When Do Shiba Inu Puppies Lose Their Baby Teeth?

Shiba Inu puppies lose their baby teeth between 4 and 9/10 months since birth. Loss of baby teeth gives way for adult teeth to grow.

When teething, Shiba Inus like biting everything thus the need for a crate to contain their movement.

How long does Shiba Inu teething last?

Shiba Inu teething lasts for an average of 3 months from the onset data which often comes at 6 4 or 5 months since birth.

Some solutions to relieve teething pain include redirecting chewing by providing your canine friend with puppy chew toys.

Do Shiba Inus Ever Stop Biting?

Shiba Inus stop the biting behavior between 6 and 9 months of age since birth when teething comes to an end.

You can also facilitate them to stop biting by keeping them busy with other activities.

The Wrap-Up

Overall, Shiba Inus are known for their strong and sharp teeth. While this can be beneficial for chewing and hunting, it can also lead to biting behaviors.

Training and socialization can help reduce Shiba Inu biting by teaching the dog appropriate behavior and reinforcing boundaries.

Consistent and positive reinforcement, along with regular dental care, can help maintain healthy teeth and prevent aggressive behavior.

By providing the right guidance and support, Shiba Inu owners can help their pets develop into well-behaved and safe companions.