Which dogs have two rows of teeth? - briefly
All dogs have two rows of teeth: the incisors at the front and the premolars and molars at the back. This includes both domestic breeds and wild canids.
Which dogs have two rows of teeth? - in detail
Dogs, like many other mammals, possess two sets of teeth during their lifetime: deciduous (baby) teeth and permanent teeth. This transition from one set to another is a natural process known as dentition.
Newborn puppies do not have teeth; they are born toothless. Their first teeth, the deciduous or milk teeth, begin to erupt around 2-4 weeks of age. These initial teeth are small and sharp, designed to help the puppy nurse from its mother. Puppies typically have 28 deciduous teeth, arranged in two rows along the upper and lower jaws. The incisors, which are located at the front of the mouth, help in grooming and grasping, while the canines, positioned behind the incisors, serve a protective role. The remaining teeth, known as premolars, aid in grinding food.
As puppies grow older, their deciduous teeth start to fall out, usually between 12-16 weeks of age. This process makes way for the permanent teeth, which begin to emerge around the same time. Adult dogs typically have 42 permanent teeth, including four canines, ten premolars, and six molars in each jaw. The additional teeth provide greater chewing efficiency and support the dog's adult dietary needs.
The presence of two rows of teeth at any given stage is a characteristic feature of both deciduous and permanent dentition in dogs. However, it is important to note that there are slight variations among different breeds regarding the number and arrangement of their teeth. For example, some breeds may have additional teeth (supernumerary teeth) or missing teeth (hypodontia).
In summary, all dogs experience two sets of teeth—deciduous and permanent—arranged in two rows along their upper and lower jaws. This dental structure supports the dog's growth and development throughout its lifespan.