If your dog’s once-perfect smile is missing a few teeth — or even all of them — you might be wondering whether her diet needs a total overhaul.
The good news? Feeding a dog with missing teeth is usually much simpler than most pet parents expect.
Here’s what you need to know about keeping your pup well-fed, comfortable and happy, no matter how many teeth she has left.
Why dogs lose teeth
Dogs can lose teeth for a variety of reasons, and it’s more common than you might think.
Some dogs never develop all of their adult teeth, so they naturally grow up with a few missing. Others lose teeth later in life due to periodontal (gum) disease, which is extremely common as dogs age. In advanced cases, teeth can loosen and fall out on their own.
Accidents and injuries can also cause tooth loss, and many dogs have diseased or damaged teeth surgically removed during professional dental cleanings at the vet.
Can dogs eat normally with missing teeth?
Surprisingly, yes — most dogs with missing teeth can still eat a normal diet without any major changes.
This includes dogs who are missing several teeth or even all of them. Many toothless dogs are still able to eat dry kibble by crunching it against the hard roof of their mouth rather than using their teeth.
So if your dog is comfortable and eating well, you likely don’t need to immediately switch foods or crush her kibble.
Try this Taste Of The Wild kibble from Amazon
Or this Nature's Recipe dry food from Amazon
When softer food might be better
That said, every dog is different.
Some dogs with missing or sensitive teeth do better with softer options, especially if they have gum pain or trouble chewing. In those cases, wet food, softened kibble (soaked in warm water or broth), or a combination of wet and dry food may be easier and more comfortable.
If your dog seems hesitant to eat, drops food frequently or avoids harder textures, switching to softer meals can make a big difference.
Try this Nature's Recipe wet food from Amazon
Or this Blue Buffalo wet food from Amazon
What about treats?
Missing teeth don’t mean missing out on treats.
Dogs with few or no teeth can usually enjoy both crunchy and soft treats. They’re incredibly skilled at picking up food and breaking it down — even without teeth.
That said, softer treats may be easier for some dogs, while others happily manage crunchy ones. Just keep an eye on how your pup handles different textures.
Try these crunchy Blue Buffalo Wilderness Trail treats from Amazon
Or these soft Milk-Bone ones from Amazon
The best approach: let your dog decide
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer when it comes to feeding a dog with missing teeth.
The best way to figure out what works is simple trial and error. Offer different textures and see what your dog eats comfortably and enthusiastically.
If she’s maintaining a healthy weight, eating without struggle and seems happy at mealtime, you’re doing it right — teeth or no teeth.
And if you’re ever unsure, your veterinarian can help guide you toward the best options for your dog’s specific needs.
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