Have bad teeth pulled or not?
Dogs can develop various dental problems. It is therefore very important to regularly check your dog's dental health. If any teeth are really bad, your vet may recommend having them extracted. But beware: this requires real surgery and is therefore a heavy procedure. Prevention is definitely better than cure.
Welfare

2 June '25 • 2 min reading time
Poor dental health can lead to gum disease, tooth decay, and even more serious health issues such as heart and kidney disease. If a tooth can no longer be saved, it is better to have it removed.
Watching for Dental Issues
Before a tooth becomes seriously damaged, there are often early signs that something is wrong with your dog's teeth. Warning signs include bad breath, discolored or worn-down teeth, and red or swollen gums. You should also be alert if your dog’s eating habits change — for example, having more difficulty chewing or a reduced appetite. If you notice one or more of these symptoms, it’s advisable to make a vet appointment as soon as possible. Early detection and treatment can often prevent the need for tooth extraction and improve your dog’s overall health. Keep in mind that dogs tend to hide (dental) pain for as long as they can.
Why Pull Teeth?
The most common reason for tooth extraction in dogs is periodontitis (gum disease). This painful condition can result from a buildup of dental plaque. If gum disease is left untreated for too long, the affected tooth often has to be removed. Another reason to extract a tooth is if it gets broken. Additionally, some teeth may be misaligned or fail to erupt properly, and some dogs have too many teeth. Just like in humans, cavities and root problems can also occur in dogs. It’s a good idea to have your puppy’s dental development checked by a veterinarian — at around eight weeks, twelve weeks, and six months old. After that, a dental check-up every six months is recommended, for example at the same time as vaccinations.
Tooth Extraction in Dogs
Tooth extraction in dogs is a serious procedure that requires general anesthesia. It’s something you’d ideally want to avoid. But sometimes it’s necessary, and when it is, you shouldn’t delay. Removing damaged or infected teeth can relieve pain and prevent further health problems. Dog tooth roots are much longer and stronger than human ones, so extractions must be done very carefully to ensure no root fragments are left behind that could cause infection.
Preventing Dental Problems
In addition to regular check-ups, you can take steps yourself to support your dog’s dental health. This includes a healthy diet, special dental care toys (like chew bones), and regular tooth brushing. Use a dog-specific toothpaste (without fluoride!) and a suitable toothbrush. There are also several supplements and herbs that can support your dog’s oral health. The plant cannabinoids from clove combined with the active compound thymoquinone from black cumin can help stop gum inflammation before it becomes serious. These active substances from clove and black cumin have anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving effects.