Has your shih tzu developed an underbite? It’s a common condition that occurs in many dogs of all breeds, but it can be especially prevalent in the Shih Tzu breed. Although not all dogs will develop an underbite, it’s still something you should be aware of if you own one or plan to own one soon.
Is It common for shih tzu to have an underbite?
Yes, it’s common for a Shih Tzu to have an underbite.
Underbite is a condition in which the upper jaw is shorter than the lower jaw, resulting in the lower teeth being exposed when the mouth is closed. This can be seen when the dog is chewing or yawning, making it easier to identify an underbite in your Shih Tzu. Sometimes this makes it look like they have a big smile on their face, but in reality, this can be uncomfortable for your pup.
If you think your dog does have an underbite and are concerned about how this may affect their health, talk with your veterinarian about ways to help alleviate any discomfort or pain that could result from this issue.
It is caused by an abnormal growth of bone or soft tissue during puppy-hood.
Underbites can make eating and breathing difficult for your dog, as well as cause dental issues like tooth decay and periodontal disease (gum infection).
Is underbite a genetic condition in Shih Tzu?
In most cases an underbite is a genetic trait, which means that it can be passed down from one generation to the next; in some cases, it can be caused by trauma or injury to the face.
Some Shih Tzus are born with an underbite, while others will develop one as they age. Underbites that are present at birth will usually improve over time as the dog grows and matures into adulthood; however, other causes for this condition may require medical attention in order to treat them properly. While underbite can’t be fully prevented, you can reduce the risk of underbite by feeding your puppy nutritious food with plenty of chew toys for them to gnaw on so that their jaws are strong enough to grow properly.
What to do if your Shih Tzu has underbite?
There are a few things you can do if your Shih Tzu has underbite. First and foremost, you should pay attention to your dog’s dental health. This means brushing their teeth regularly. Regular tooth brushing at home will help keep plaque buildup at bay and also prevents gum disease which can make dental problems even worse over time. At the same time, regular visits with your veterinarian are important because they can spot underlying issues that may be affecting alignment or lead to other problems down the road such as tooth decay or gum disease.
Here is what you need to do:
- Remove any food particles from the teeth and gums after eating.
- Brush the dog’s teeth daily. This is essential, as it is one of the most important things you can do to keep your dog healthy and happy.
- Use a toothpaste with fluoride, as well as a soft-bristled toothbrush (never use human toothpaste on dogs). You may also want to consider getting an electric toothbrush for your pup if he or she has trouble accepting oral care from you—this will be especially helpful in keeping plaque build-up at bay!
- Use a dog toothpaste and/or dog toothbrush if possible; this will help ensure that your Shih Tzu gets all of the benefits from his or her dental hygiene routine without ingesting chemicals that might upset their stomachs in unfamiliar ways later down the line!
