Remove Baby Dog Teeth When Neutered

by Reilee
(Pennsylvania )

My five month old chihuahua puppy has his permanent teeth in the front, and he hasn't lost his baby teeth. I'm not sure if this is ok or what I should do.

All the vet tells me is to have them removed when we get him neutered, but I'm not sure if I should wait. I'd appreciate any suggestions.

Vet Suggestion Regarding the Removal of Baby Dog Teeth When a Dog is Neutered

Hi Reilee,

I agree with your veterinarian. The teeth should be removed, and doing it when your dog is neutered is best.

At five months of age, your Chihuahua could be neutered at any time now, so it doesn’t make much sense to anesthetize him twice when both procedures can (and usually are) performed together.

The baby teeth need to be removed so that his mouth isn’t overcrowded, which can promote the formation of plaque, tartar and gingivitis, but having a few extra teeth for a short period of time isn’t dangerous.

Regards,

Jennifer Coates, DVM