Most dog owners are used to hearing their dog bark, whine, or even snore—but what about grinding their teeth? If you’ve recently noticed a strange clicking or grinding sound coming from your pup’s mouth, you might be wondering what’s going on. While it’s not super common, some dogs do grind their teeth, and it’s worth paying attention to. Let’s dive into why it happens, whether it’s something to worry about, and how you can help.
What Causes Dogs to Grind Their Teeth?
Teeth grinding in dogs, also known as bruxism, can happen for a few different reasons. One of the biggest culprits is dental discomfort. Painful problems like fractured teeth, exposed tooth pulp, gum disease, or tooth infections can all lead to grinding. Even an abnormal bite (known as a malocclusion) or jaw misalignment can make it uncomfortable for your dog to close their mouth properly, causing that grinding sound.
Stress and anxiety are also major triggers. Just like people might clench their jaws when they’re tense, dogs can grind their teeth when they’re feeling overwhelmed. Big changes at home, new siblings (human or furry), or general uncertainty can all play a role. In some cases, the cause could be gastrointestinal problems like nausea or acid reflux. Certain neurological conditions, such as seizures, can also cause chewing motions that sound like grinding.
While occasional grinding during sleep might not be a big deal, regular or frequent grinding is a sign that it’s time to get your vet involved.
Is Teeth Grinding Harmful for Dogs?
Even if it doesn’t seem like a big deal at first, teeth grinding can cause significant health problems if left untreated. Constant grinding wears down the enamel, leaving the teeth vulnerable to fractures, infections, and painful exposed nerves. It can also lead to gum issues, jaw pain, and difficulty eating.
More importantly, grinding is often a symptom of something bigger, whether it’s dental disease, gastrointestinal discomfort, or emotional stress. That’s why it’s important not to brush it off, especially if you notice other signs like bad breath, swollen gums, pawing at the mouth, or changes in behavior. Ultimately, catching and addressing the cause early can save your dog from a lot of pain down the road.
Treatment Options for Fido’s Teeth Grinding
If you notice your dog grinding their teeth, the first step is to schedule a veterinary checkup. Your vet will start with a thorough physical and oral exam and might recommend dental X-rays or other diagnostic tests to figure out what’s going on under the surface.
If dental disease is found, treatment could involve professional teeth cleaning, extractions, or even surgery in severe cases. Your vet may recommend corrective dental work if misaligned teeth or jaw abnormalities are the issue. If stress or anxiety is to blame, working with a trainer or behaviorist can help. Sometimes, calming aids like pheromone diffusers, supplements, or medication can make a big difference in helping your dog feel more relaxed.
For dogs with gastrointestinal problems, treatments like diet changes, antacids, or medications may be needed to manage nausea and discomfort. In some cases, your vet might recommend special dental products like softer chew toys or prescription diets designed to support dental health. Keeping up with regular cleanings—both at home and at the vet’s office—will also go a long way toward keeping your dog’s teeth healthy and strong.
Whether the cause of your dog’s teeth grinding is something simple or needs a bit more attention, checking in with your vet is always a good idea. With the right attention and treatment, you’ll help keep your dog’s mouth healthy and smiling!