Chattering teeth behavior
Teeth chattering in dogs involves opening and closing the mouth in a quick succession causing teeth to click together. This behavior can sometimes be accompanied by other signs, like shivering or shaking. It often looks like how humans’ teeth chatter when they’re cold.
Causes
Teeth chattering can occur for various reasons, including temperature changes, excitement, anxiety, oral discomfort, or even certain neurological conditions such as seizures. Essentially, it’s a physical response to a stimulus, be it emotional or environmental.
There are several reasons why your hunting dog might be chattering his teeth. Here are some common causes:
- Cold Temperatures: Just like humans, dogs can shiver and chatter their teeth when they’re cold. Hunting in the fall or winter is during a time of chilly weather. Cooler temps coupled with excited behavior can lead to chattering.
- Excitement or Anticipation: Dogs may chatter their teeth when they’re excited or anticipating something, like going on a hunt.
- Anxiety or Fear: If your dog is feeling anxious or scared, he might chatter his teeth as a response to stress. Additional signs of anxiety and fear include pacing, hiding, and whining. Dogs may tuck their tails in between their hind legs when feeling fearful. Hunting noises such as gunshots, whistles, and animal calls may trigger anxiety in some dogs.
- Oral Pain: Sometimes, teeth chattering can be a sign of TMJ or dental issues. An oral exam with your primary care veterinarian OR a board-certified veterinary dentist is recommended if oral pain is a concern or possibility.
- Seizures: In rare cases, teeth chattering can be associated with seizures. If you notice other signs of a seizure, such as twitching or loss of consciousness, it’s important to seek veterinary care immediately.
Treatment for Chattering Teeth in Dogs
Treatment will depend upon the underlying cause. Below are general recommendations.
Cold temperatures— In the case of cold temperatures, providing your dog with a warm station and/or a coat should be considered. If your dog is middle-aged or older, consider having their thyroid level checked. Low thyroid levels can lead to decreased tolerance to cold weather.
Excitement—This will typically resolve once the hunting process is in full play.
Anxiety or Fear—Some dogs, like people, do not respond well to loud noises. Gunshot sounds may contribute to a fearful response. Consider another job for your dog to avoid repeated fear, which, over time, can cause reactive behavior. This is similar to chronic stress in people.
Oral Pain— Dental disease is commonly seen in dogs. Tooth trauma can happen and lead to oral pain. Periodontal disease is often characterized by oral malodor and changes in eating and oral play habits. If oral pain is suspected, then it is recommended to schedule an exam to investigate this further and create a specific treatment plan.
Seizures—Suspicion of seizure activity warrants a veterinary visit for medical evaluation.
Conclusion
Mouth function is very important in all dogs and especially important in hunting dogs. Oftentimes, the underlying cause may not be clear. If you are unsure about what is the cause of your hunting dog’s chattering behavior, it is always a good idea to consult your vet or local boarded veterinary dentist to rule out any underlying health issues. At Montana Pet Dentistry and Oral Surgery, we welcome the opportunity to optimize a healthy mouth for your hunting canine companion.
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