Did you know? Horses have canine teeth!

Canine teeth are sharp, pointed teeth that sit in the gap (interdental space) between the incisors and the premolars.

They are very different from wolf teeth – canines are larger, more prominent, positioned further forward in the mouth, and don’t play a role in chewing.

Canine teeth usually erupt between 4-6 years of age, and their presence varies:

Most commonly found in male horses.
Rare in female horses (if present, they are usually very small).

For many horses, canine teeth don’t cause significant issues. However, they can sometimes:

Collect tartar and become prone to gingivitis or gum disease.
Be accidentally contacted by the bit or bridle if very large.
Fracture if a horse bites down on a hard object.

Routine dental care may involve blunting or smoothing sharp tips – although minimal intervention is ideal – and checking for gum disease. Unlike wolf teeth, canine teeth are not typically removed unless fractured or diseased.

By recognising the role and position of canine teeth, and monitoring them during dental exams, we can prevent discomfort and ensure they don’t interfere with oral health or pain.

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