It's hard to tell for sure but I think I am seeing 6 upper and lower incisors, which is normal. Can you count those small teeth between the canines on both jaws for us please?
There is a definate malocclusion of the fit of the canines on the right side which may be from the movement of the teeth or jaw. Can't tell about the left.
Is this dog missing any premolars or molars? Your vet can easily look and tell you and easier than me trying to describe what to look for. I have heard of adult shelties suddenly losing teeth - known as "popcorn" teeth around here. That could account for the lateral movement of the canines which in turn could stop the dog from completely closing the mouth. Think of a human mouth that has had extractions and no spacer in place. Often the tips of the adjacent teeth start moving toward each other - same idea.
Tinsel has a wonky mouth that he himself cannot close even though I can with no pressure. His lower incisors dirty up pretty fast because of it. Since he won't allow brushing I give him a smoked beef patella occasionally and they clean up fairly well. He had dentistry before he was released to my care and several teeth were removed but I expect that he will lose more party because he can't close his mouth. That's really the least of his problems and one that is easily worked around.
I will be interested in hearing the result of you counting Mattie's teeth.
There is a definate malocclusion of the fit of the canines on the right side which may be from the movement of the teeth or jaw. Can't tell about the left.
Is this dog missing any premolars or molars? Your vet can easily look and tell you and easier than me trying to describe what to look for. I have heard of adult shelties suddenly losing teeth - known as "popcorn" teeth around here. That could account for the lateral movement of the canines which in turn could stop the dog from completely closing the mouth. Think of a human mouth that has had extractions and no spacer in place. Often the tips of the adjacent teeth start moving toward each other - same idea.
Tinsel has a wonky mouth that he himself cannot close even though I can with no pressure. His lower incisors dirty up pretty fast because of it. Since he won't allow brushing I give him a smoked beef patella occasionally and they clean up fairly well. He had dentistry before he was released to my care and several teeth were removed but I expect that he will lose more party because he can't close his mouth. That's really the least of his problems and one that is easily worked around.
I will be interested in hearing the result of you counting Mattie's teeth.