Shih Tzu with Loose or Missing Teeth: Important Care Tips
Overview
Tooth loss in Shih Tzus can be a surprising and concerning issue for many pet parents. While puppies naturally lose their baby teeth to make way for adult ones, losing them later in life is often a sign of underlying problems requiring attention. With their compact jaws, Shih Tzus are particularly prone to dental challenges, making tooth loss a common concern for this breed.
If your Shih Tzu has missing teeth, it’s essential to understand the potential causes, how it may affect their daily life, and the best ways to support them. From dietary adjustments to choosing the right toys and preventing further tooth loss, there are many ways to ensure your Shih Tzu continues to live a happy and comfortable life even if they have missing teeth or, in rare cases, no teeth.
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The Dental Development of Shih Tzus
Like all dogs, Shih Tzus go through two distinct phases of dental development: the arrival of their deciduous teeth (aka baby or milk teeth) and the eventual transition to adult teeth.
Puppy Teeth: A Temporary Stage
Shih Tzu puppies are born without teeth, but their baby teeth start emerging around 3 to 4 weeks old. By 8 weeks, most puppies have a full set of 28 sharp deciduous teeth, which help them chew soft food and explore. Between 4 and 6 months, these baby teeth fall out during the teething phase to make way for permanent adult teeth.
Adult Teeth: A Permanent Set
By 6 to 7 months, a Shih Tzu should have a full set of 42 adult teeth, which are larger and stronger than baby teeth and meant to last a lifetime with proper care.
Loss of Adult Teeth
Though it points to serious dental issues, the loss of adult teeth with older, senior Shih Tzu dogs is not uncommon. If this is to occur, it often happens at age 10 and older.
Is It Normal for a Shih Tzu to Have Loose or Missing Teeth?
Loose or missing teeth are more common in Shih Tzus compared to non-brachycephalic breeds, but it is not a normal condition. In most cases, tooth loss is sign of serious underlying dental issues, such as decay or periodontal (gum) disease.
Dental issues, in general, are widespread among the Shih Tzu and other toy breeds. Studies show that up to 80% of dogs exhibit some form of periodontal disease by age 3, and Shih Tzus are no exception. Their predisposition to dental problems means tooth loss as an older adult dog becomes a likely outcome without regular care. It’s not uncommon for senior Shih Tzus to have several missing teeth or even no teeth at all if dental health has been neglected.
It’s important to note that the consequences of dental disease can extend beyond the mouth, potentially leading to pain, difficulty eating, and even systemic health issues like infections spreading to the kidneys, liver, or heart.
Why Are Shih Tzus Prone to Dental Issues?
Shih Tzus are at a higher risk of developing loose, wobbly, or missing teeth due to two significant anatomical challenges: they are a brachycephalic breed with a compact jaw and a small breed dog. These factors often result in overcrowded teeth, making proper cleaning difficult (especially the back teeth) and increasing the likelihood of long-term oral health issues including tooth decay and periodontal (gum) disease. These conditions can progress to loose or missing teeth, significantly affecting a Shih Tzu’s overall health and quality of life.
Causes of Loose or Missing Teeth in Shih Tzus
Loose or missing teeth in Shih Tzus can result from several factors, many of which are preventable with proper care and attention. Understanding these causes is essential for maintaining your Shih Tzu’s dental health and overall well-being.
1. Dental Disease
The most common cause of tooth loss in Shih Tzus is dental disease, particularly periodontal disease. This condition occurs when plaque and tartar buildup irritate the gums, leading to inflammation, gum recession, and, eventually, tooth instability. Infections or abscesses can develop if left untreated, further damaging the surrounding tissues and bones supporting the teeth.
2. Trauma
Accidental injuries are another frequent cause of loose or missing teeth. Shih Tzus may suffer dental trauma from falls, chewing on excessively hard objects, or unexpected accidents. These injuries can crack or loosen teeth, sometimes requiring veterinary intervention to prevent infection or further damage.
3. Age-Related Factors
As Shih Tzus age, their teeth and gums naturally weaken. Due to years of wear and tear, senior Shih Tzus are more susceptible to dental problems, including loosened teeth. Regular dental care throughout their lives can slow this process and help preserve their teeth into old age.
How Missing Teeth Affect Shih Tzus
Missing teeth in Shih Tzus can significantly impact their daily lives, affecting not just their physical well-being but also their emotional health. Let’s look at the top impacts this can have:
1. Difficulty Chewing and Eating
One of the most significant challenges for Shih Tzus with missing teeth is difficulty chewing their food. When multiple teeth are missing, or a Shih Tzu has almost no teeth left, hard kibble and treats become almost impossible to eat. This can make mealtime frustrating and stressful, leading to reduced food intake. Without proper adjustments to their diet, this can result in nutritional imbalances and declining health.
2. Behavioral Changes
A Shih Tzu may become reluctant to chew on toys, an activity they may have previously found relaxing. Also, the physical discomfort associated with missing teeth or gum issues may reduce interest in play or social engagement, reducing their overall quality of life.
3. Risk of Secondary Health Issues
Missing teeth can lead to several secondary health problems, including:
- Weight Loss or Malnutrition: If a Shih Tzu struggles to eat, they may not consume enough nutrients to maintain their weight and overall health. This can weaken their immune system and leave them more vulnerable to illness.
- Jaw Pain and Bone Loss: If a tooth or several teeth have fallen out, this can cause uneven pressure on the jaw while chewing, leading to chronic discomfort or pain. Over time, the lack of stimulation in the jawbone at the site of missing teeth can result in bone loss, further weakening the jaw structure and affecting a dog’s ability to eat, pick things up, etc.
- Infections: Missing teeth can make it easier for bacteria and food debris to accumulate in the surrounding gums, increasing the risk of periodontal disease or painful abscesses. If infections are not treated promptly, bacteria can enter the bloodstream, potentially affecting vital organs such as the heart (causing endocarditis), liver, or kidneys. In severe cases, this may lead to systemic issues like sepsis, posing serious health risks that require immediate veterinary care.
What to Do If You Notice a Wobbly, Loose Tooth
A wobbly or loose tooth in your Shih Tzu is often a sign of an underlying issue that requires immediate attention. This should not be ignored, and you should not wait for another missing tooth before you act. Steps to take are:
#1 Avoid Home Remedies
Attempting to pull out a loose tooth without a professional veterinary evaluation can cause pain, infection, and further damage to a Shih Tzu’s surrounding teeth and gums. Also, avoid using over-the-counter numbing or pain medications intended for humans, as these can be harmful to canines. Switch your Shih Tzu to soft or moistened food to prevent additional strain on the loose tooth and reduce discomfort until you can seek help from a professional vet.
#2 Contact the Veterinarian
Even if your Shih Tzu seems fine or the tooth has already fallen out without obvious discomfort, it’s important to contact the veterinarian for an evaluation. A professional assessment is essential to determine the cause of the problem and to address any underlying issues that may require treatment.
At the vet’s office, your Shih Tzu should have an examination of their mouth and possibly X-rays to assess the health of the tooth’s root and underlying bone structure. Depending on the findings, the veterinarian may recommend treatment options, including professional cleaning, tooth extraction, and/or medications to address infection or inflammation.
In rare cases, a loose tooth can be stabilized with dental splinting, though this is uncommon in Shih Tzus due to their compact jaws.
# 3 Work to Prevent Further Issues
Addressing a loose tooth is the first step; preventing future dental problems is equally important. Establish a regular dental care routine, including brushing with dog-safe toothpaste daily and providing dental chews or toys designed to reduce plaque buildup. Schedule annual or biannual professional cleanings to keep their teeth and gums healthy. Additionally, monitor your Shih Tzu’s diet and avoid feeding hard or overly crunchy foods if their dental health is compromised.
If a Loose Tooth Falls Out on Its Own
If your Shih Tzu’s loose tooth falls out before you can see the vet, there are a few extra steps to take. Using a flashlight, check for any remaining fragments of the tooth that may be lodged in the gums. You won’t attempt to remove them, but noting their presence is valuable info to share with the vet when making the appointment. If you have an oral rinse or spray specifically for dogs, use it to clean the area gently. As mentioned earlier, switch to softened food to make eating easier and avoid irritation.
You typically don’t need to keep the tooth, but there are exceptions. If the tooth is fractured (came out in pieces) or appears abnormal (discolored, odd texture, etc.), the vet may find it helpful to examine it for diagnosis and treatment. To store the tooth, rinse it under cold water and place it in a sealed plastic bag or small container. Keep it in a cool, dry place until your appointment.
The Best Food for a Shih Tzu with Missing or No Teeth
A note on Why Dry Kibble is Best for Shih Tzus:
Though the best type of food to offer a Shih Tzu is high-quality dry kibble, it's very common for dogs with missing teeth to have trouble eating such hard, crunchy food. Let's look at some options to help a Shih Tzu have an easier time eating.
#1 Adapt Dry Food for Easier Chewing
If your Shih Tzu is accustomed to a particular (hopefully high-quality) kibble but struggles to chew it, you can adapt their regular food to make it softer. This is an excellent choice if both of you are happy with the brand. An easy method is to soak the kibble in either warm water or low-sodium chicken broth. An alternative is to use a blender to grind the kibble, with or without added water or low-sodium chicken broth.
#2 Switch to a Soft Food
This is another option and can be helpful if a Shih Tzu resists the changes made to their dry kibble (see above). If you’re happy with the brand they have been eating, see if there is a soft, canned, or packet option. If you are looking for a recommendation, we like Wellness Petite Entrees. This brand has no artificial colors, preservatives, or fillers and offers some great recipes, including Chicken & Beef in Gravy, Chicken with Carrots & Red Peppers, and Lamb with Peas & Sweet Potatoes.
#3 Homemade Meals
If you have the time and desire to cook for your Shih Tzu, this is an option. It’ll be important to ensure the meals are balanced, and in most cases, you will want to offer a daily multivitamin, extra omega-3, and other supplements to round things off. Soft meals from pureed chicken and sweet potatoes can serve as the base, with added fruits and vegetables.
Importance of Dental Hygiene with a Soft Food Diet:
Switching to a soft food diet can provide relief for a Shih Tzu with missing teeth and ensure they do not lose weight, but it also comes with an added responsibility: keeping their remaining teeth clean and stopping future tooth loss. Unlike hard kibble, soft food doesn’t help remove plaque or tartar during chewing. This makes daily cleaning and regular vet checkups more important than ever.
One of the best methods to remove plaque and tartar is to brush a Shih Tzu's teeth using a small toothbrush or fingertip brush and safe canine toothpaste. A 3-piece set like the Arm and Hammer Dental Kit for Pets has these items and is a good size for most Shih Tzu dogs.
And if you have trouble getting your sweetie to agree to brushing their teeth, there are also some effective wipes, like the Dog Dental Wipes by SmileDenX that uses a blend of plant enzymes, citric acid and baking soda to help keep the teeth clean.
Toys for a Shih Tzu with Missing or No Teeth
Many Shih Tzu dogs adore their toys, often treating them as treasured possessions. Toys can help banish boredom and even offer a sense of security, with some dogs enjoying snuggling their favorites or proudly carrying them around. Even if your Shih Tzu has missing or no teeth, they can still enjoy a variety of toys.
For Gentle Chewing or Cuddling:
For gentle chewing or cuddling, soft, stuffing-free plush toys are an excellent choice. Without stuffing, these toys are flatter and easier for a Shih Tzu to mouth and carry around, making them more comfortable to handle compared to thicker, heavily stuffed toys.
A great example is the No-Stuffing Crinkle Toys by SharLovy. Designed specifically for small dogs, these toys feature crinkle paper inside to capture a Shih Tzu’s attention, while their soft outer layer makes them ideal for snuggling and gentle play.
For Keeping a Shih Tzu Occupied:
For stay-busy toys, snuffles are an excellent option. These toys feature hidden fabric compartments where treats can be tucked, encouraging dogs to use their sense of smell to sniff out the hiding spots. Many dogs find this type of “work” highly rewarding and enjoyable. Soft treats or small fruits like blueberries are ideal for Shih Tzus with missing teeth.
For those new to scent work, a toy like the Snail Rollup Snuffle Toy for Dogs by InJoya is a good choice. It’s easy to use and wash and provides fun without being overly challenging.
For those who are used to foraging for treats or if you want to prolong the challenge, you may wish to consider the Garden Snuffle Mat by Meilzer, which has a large playing surface and a non-slip backing.
A Final Thought
If a Shih Tzu has lost some adult teeth, there will need to be some adjustments. By making changes to their diet, choosing suitable toys, and quickly addressing dental issues, you can ensure your Shih Tzu's comfort. Regular vet checkups and a focus on at-home oral hygiene can help prevent future issues and keep their remaining teeth strong.
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