Dogs with underbites have a lower jaw that protrudes out from underneath the upper jaw. Dog breeds with underbites have a specific condition known as canine malocclusion.
This condition is easy to spot as it displays a misalignment of the lower and upper teeth. This condition, and dogs with underbites, is easy to spot.
When canine malocclusion occurs the lower front teeth are visible when the dog keeps his mouth closed. This condition is more frequent in some breeds, more than others.
From a dog’s perspective, underbites are not a big deal, nor do they see it as an issue.
Below you will find twelve dog breeds that often come with underbites. Plus, you will find a section on why an underbite occurs.
Good to know: In some cases, underbites should be corrected with veterinarian assistance.
Bulldog
Bulldog, especially the English Bulldog often has an underbite that is sort of their trademark.
This is common in this breed that their famous grumpy facial expression couldn’t be complete without it.
Bulldogs may look grumpy and in constant need to chew on something (which they usually do), but they are the softness among all dogs. They are huge people-pleasers and massive child lovers.
Bulldogs tend to be so affectionate that children naturally run toward them.
No matter how much love you see between your dogs and children make sure that you always supervise their interaction.
As for the esthetic part, no corrective action needs to be taken underbite-wise, because there are no signs of any chewing problems in this breed.
Do French Bulldogs have underbite? Yes, French Bulldogs tend to have an underbite.
In fact, this breed is common among dog breeds with underbites as they have a genetic predisposition for this condition.
Pug
Pugs are dogs known for countless health issues that they have to deal with.
They have famous smushed noses and flattened facial features, which means that they often have breathing issues.
With flattened faces, they often have an underbite that is easy to spot.
In most cases, their underbites pose no problem to them and people even claim that it only adds to their cuteness.
Originally from China, these small-size dogs are perfect city companions and overall a low-maintenance breed, among them a great choice for first time dog owners.
They tend to be stubborn from time to time, which is why training should be implemented from day one.
Dogs can master basic commands as of eight weeks of age and this period should be used well to train dogs to be the best possible canine citizens.
Pekingese
Pekingese is a small size dog breed centuries old.
These small size dogs are big charmers within the dog world. They were bred to be companion dogs, and even today they love nothing more but to twist up in the lap of their favorite humans and rest.
They are fun but equally mischievous, and nothing excites them more than a treat after a nice long walk.
Do not let their size fool you, because they love to be active.
Pekingese are not heavy holders on an underbite, but you can see in them one or more canine teeth sticking out.
If you love small-size dogs, but don’t want a breed that sheds a lot, you should think about getting Pekingese.
Boston Terrier
Boston Terrier is a popular breed often seen strolling down the busiest city streets. This famous breed is a mix between the English terrier and the English bulldog.
They are often called the ‘American Gentlemen’ due to their origin as an American breed and famous tuxedo-like appearance.
Boston Terriers were bred to be savage Pit bulls, while today they are mostly full-time pets who enjoy time with their human family.
Not sure how to recognize a Boston Terrier? Just see if their body resembles the tuxedo-like look and if they have bat-like ears.
They may be small in size, but they tend to be hyperactive. Boston Terriers usually sport a pronounced underbite, but it’s important to note that isn’t easy to spot when their mouths are closed.
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is a gentle breed that was originally bred as a laptop.
They will enjoy zoom-in and active time in the dog park, but they will love nothing more than quiet time next to their feet.
These dogs love to lick people, even strangers. This is something to consider when thinking about getting a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel.
At home, they will be quiet, while outdoors they will enjoy fetching for chasing games.
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel will move easily from being an active pooch in the backyard to being the most pleasant couch potato.
They are often praised for having perfect scissor bites. and many of them have underbites.
Some Cavalier King Charles Spaniels may even have severe underbites that tend to develop as such while Cavalier King Charles Spaniels are puppies.
As great companion dogs, Cavalier King Charles Spaniels are often the first choice as family dogs or therapy animals.
Chihuahua
Chihuahuas are tiny-headed dogs of big personality.
They are small, compact, and great when it comes to choosing the fitting four-legged city companion. Although they are people-pleasers, Chihuahuas have minds of their own.
Chihuahuas are also one of the most expensive dogs of today. As for the underbite, Chihuahuas are often impacted by underbites.
If you monitor carefully any representative of this breed, you will see their lower jaw teeth sticking out above their upper lip.
These dogs may be small in size, but they are pretty much feisty, which means that proper training and early socialization are a must.
Pomeranian
Pomeranian is a famous small size pooch of fluffy appearance.
Many would describe them as miniature lions, due to their lavishing and sharp coat.
Getting a Pomeranian will be costly, and maintaining him, later on, will require a serious investment. That being said, make sure that you can afford to own this high-maintenance breed.
Weekly brushing and regular grooming are a must to keep this breed looking neat, fresh, clean, and healthy.
They may be small, but they are often the first ones to challenge large-size dogs, so keeping them on a leash while on walks is a must.
Pomeranians are very loyal dogs who love spending time with their family members. These small size dogs tend to have underbites as a genetic disposition.
Lhasa Apso
Lhasa Apso is an ancient breed that originally dates back to the ancient Tibetan Buddhist monasteries.
They may look soft, but they have been bred to be indoor watchdogs, and even today they are among the best watchdog breeds alive.
Not only that they will guard your home like a large size dog, but they will be equally affectionate.
Yet, they will be stubborn and challenging to train due to their independent traits, so make sure that you provide early training and proper socialization.
When it comes to tracking skills Lhasa Apso is one of the best breeds to find almost anything.
Appearance-wise people often mix them with another small size breed, the Shi Tzu.
The biggest difference between the Lhasa Apso and the Shi Tzu is that Shi Tzu always comes with a noticeable underbite.
On the other hand, the Lhasa Apso will either have no underbite or just a small one.
Maltese
Maltese is one of the most famous pooch breeds alive.
In fact, they are so popular that it’s almost impossible to find a corner of the Earth where this breed isn’t present.
These famous white-coated dogs were bred to be perfect companion dogs and this is their primary role even today.
With silky coats and elegant looks, they are more of a city area dog than they are present in rural areas.
Maltese loves being surrounded by people, which is why they are prone to separation anxiety.
If left for too long or too often they will suffer and even become destructive. They are best fitted for homes where they are single dogs.
Maltese will appreciate older children as long as they know how to behave around dogs and not treat them as toys.
As a purebred, the Maltese have a high genetic propensity for underbites.
Boxer
Boxers are known for great energy and strength, which is why they are recommended for active dog owners.
If they are not busy being family dogs, they are busy working as police dogs or cattle dogs.
Did you know that Boxers were used as war dogs in the two world wars? They may be great athletes, but they are also very elegant.
If you are into dog training and official competitions, Boxers are a great choice for dog agility.
They are demanding to train, which is why they are recommended for only experienced dog owners, who know how to handle larger size dogs.
Boxers are great when it comes to spending time with children, as long as children are well-educated on how to behave around dogs.
If you love Boxers, but you want a smaller size dog of a Boxer appearance, check dogs that look like Boxers.
Boxers are highly loyal dogs, which is why they are often the first choice as watchdogs and defenders. These larger size dogs are one of the rare large dogs that feature an underbite.
Puggle
When breeders decided to mix a Beagle and a Pug, a Puggle was born. This mixed breed may have underbites or not, it all depends on the genes.
For example, if an adorable Puggle pulls more on the Beagle parent he won’t have underbites.
On the other hand, if he is more of a Pug underbites are possible and often seen. Although this is a mixed breed, Puggle is more of a Pug in appearance.
Puggles are real people-lovers and they will like everyone.
As such softies, Puggles are a great family and companion dogs, even suitable for first time dog owners.
If you are looking for a guard dog, this breed isn’t for you.
Puggles are always friendly toward other dogs so they are not much of protectors as well, at least not if they are not heavily provoked.
Even when they bark it’s just to inform you that someone is in front of the door.
Now that we know what dog breeds experience underbite the most, let’s learn more about underbites: what an underbite in dogs is and what causes it.
If you want to learn more about these breeds or compare them, use compare dog breeds tool to see where they stand when it comes to personality, exercise needs, and grooming requirements.
What’s An Underbite In Dogs?
Underbite in dogs refers to the relative positioning of the canine teeth located in the lower jaw and upper jaw, where the dog’s lower jaw sticks out.
This is a Class 3 malocclusion, that occurs when jaw lengths are met in atypical ways.
It’s common for an underbite to be expressed in the lower jaw which is longer than the upper.
When an underbite occurs dog’s lower teeth are visible when the dog’s mouth is closed.
What Causes An Underbite In Dogs
Pure breeding has affected dogs’ body and skeleton structure through the years.
This is the main reason why certain short-muzzle breeds have certain standards that are considered to be normal or at least accepted.
This is something that is may be seen in how dogs are treated in dog shows.
If you have ever visited a dog show you have probably noticed how judges poke around in a dog’s mouth.
They do this to check the dog’s occlusion (or dental malocclusion) to see if it’s against the breed’s standard.
Dog’s teeth down change much during the dog’s course of life. It’s common for dogs in the first ten months to have their teeth aligned. This is the period when adult canine teeth come in.
Underbite usually appears as an infection or trauma, or any other external event that may affect and eventually alter maxillofacial growth.
Since dog breeds with underbites tend to have chewing issues make sure that you stick to regular veterinarian check-ups.
If your veterinarian recommends any specific diet, choose the best food that will meet the dog’s needs the best.
Dogs With Underbites – Conclusion
A canine underbite is often seen in dogs of all ages.
Still, this condition is frequently seen in small-size dogs. This condition is often seen in brachycephalic breeds, such as Boxers and Pugs.
The reasons for this underbite may vary and include anything from external factors to injuries, and genetics.
Frequently Asked Questions On Dogs With Underbites
1. Is It Bad For A Dog To Have An Underbite?
Dog breeds with underbites are at higher risk of developing dental issues and may have difficulties chewing. If you want to know do underbites get worse over time, know that it usually doesn’t.
2. What Causes Underbite In Dogs?
Underbite in dogs occurs when a puppy’s teeth fall out and a new one starts to grow and develop at a specific angle. In some rare cases, an underbite can develop due to physical trauma.
3. Is It Normal For A Dog To Have An Underbite?
Underbites in dogs are more frequent than you might think. Any breed can develop an underbite, but no one can predict which dog will have it.
4. Does An Underbite Hurt A Dog?
Dog breeds with an underbite might experience pain from tooth-to-tooth contact or when it comes to a contact tooth-to-gum. This may lead to chronic pain and stress.
5. Do Underbites In Dogs Need To Be Fixed?
Dog breeds with underbites can live a full life without any need for correction. In most cases, there is no need for any sort of treatment.
In fact, if an underbite doesn’t cause any damage to a dog’s mouth there is no need for any correction, treatment, or oral surgery.
