When we hear word chattering the first thing that comes to our mind is someone who is cold or nervous. But Why Do Dogs Chatter Their Teeth? Is this the same as humans? In this article, we will discuss everything in detail about teeth catering in dogs and answer all of your questions.
Many dog owners notice teeth chattering in their furry friends and become concerned if there are health issues causing this condition. Here is a detail about dog teeth chattering and how you can stop it. Before we get deeper into to topic let’s discuss
What does teeth chatter mean?
Teeth chattering means involuntary rapid movement or vibration of teeth. Usually, it’s due to cold or extreme emotions like fear or anxiety.
You may like to read: How Far can Dogs Hear?
Why Do Dogs Chatter Their Teeth?
There can be different reasons for teeth chattering in dogs. It is suggested to consult with the Vet to find out what the exact one but if you don’t want to visit the vet after reading this article you will be able to see symptoms and conclude the exact reason
Dental Disease
Dental disease is one of the major causes of chattering teeth in dogs. This disease includes problems with the dog’s teeth, gums, or bone structure of the jaw of your dog. This is the most serious case and you should visit Vet. Your vet will check and look for the exact treatment which can be dental surgery and tooth removal etc. But keep in mind if it’s the dog’s teeth never wait for anything and consult the doctor ASAP.
Foreign Objects
Sometimes, a foreign object is stuck between their teeth or along the gumline. This can cause discomfort, and to tackle this or get that thing out of teeth they start a chattering response.
Stress and Anxiety
Like humans dogs may chatter their teeth because of stress or anxiety. If something is bothering your dog or he is scared of certain environmental changes, such as loud noises or fireworks, then he may chatter his teeth.
Always pay close attention to your dog take care of his health and get those things which make him frightened and stressed.
You may like to read: How Big Is A Dog’s Brain?
Gastrointestinal Issues
Gastrointestinal problems are common in dogs and this leads to nausea, vomiting, or gastro. Because of these issues dog chatter their teeth or run teeth together. If you see these issues with teeth grinding it’s suggested to visit the vet for treatment.
Excitement or Happiness
Dogs are very expressive creatures and they will try to show and communicate with their owner. When they are very happy and excited they may start sudden teeth chattering. For example, if you give them their favorite cookie after a long time they will start vibrating or grinding their teeth.
If you are sure that this chattering is because of excitement or happiness then there is nothing to worry about because it’s normal behavior in dogs.
Cold Weather Shivers
Just like humans, dogs can shiver when they’re feeling cold. When temperatures drop, dogs may chatter their teeth to regulate their body temperature. If you see your dog doing so, especially in winter provide him a blanket or warm place near the heater, etc.
Flehmen response
When dogs smell or lick their favourite things they usually curl their lips back and start chattering their teeth. This behavior is completely normal in animals. If you see your grinding teeth after smelling or licking anything there is nothing to worry about.
Pheromones
In dogs there is a phenomenon called pheromones means when the dog smells the scent of the opposite gender they start chattering their jaws. You will also see foamy saliva coming out of their mouth.
When the dog starts vibrating their jaws it’s not necessary there is something wrong. We have covered every aspect of Why Do Dogs Chatter Their Teeth? and wrote on each reason in detail. Also, we will look for more and add that in the next update. How was this article?? Did you find anything helpful? Let us know in the comment section below.
You may like to read: Why do female Dogs Cry When Mating?
FAQS: What Does it Mean When a Dog Chatters Their Teeth?
Still not satisfied? Here are some frequently asked questions
Why do dogs clack their teeth at you?
Dogs may chatter their teeth at you because of excitement for example if you give them their favorite cookie or they see you after a long time they start doing so to express their emotions.
Why is my dog’s jaw quivering?
Jaw quivering in dogs is because of the following reasons
- Dental Disease
- Foreign object
- Anxiety
- Cold
- Gastro
- Excitements
- Strong Smell
Why does my dog chatter his teeth and foam?
When a dog smells the scent of the opposite gender he will chatter his teeth with foam. Mostly this happens in male dogs but female dogs also do this.
How do you stop a dog’s jaw from chattering?
Sometimes teeth chattering is natural but if you see anything unusual like cold, pain, gastro, anxiety, or dental disease it’s suggested to take your pet to a doctor. After treatment, it will stop grinding its teeth.
Does dog teeth chattering mean pain?
Not always but sometimes chattering can indicate pain. Dogs may chatter their teeth because of discomfort due to dental issues, foreign objects stuck in their teeth and ear infections, etc.