best dog food for dogs with no teeth

By Isabella Storyclaire

last updated September 16, 2024

Contributions sourced from

What To Feed A Dog With Missing Teeth

Your dogs beautiful smile might be missing a tooth or two (or maybe even all of them), but does that affect what she can and cant eat?

When it comes to feeding a pup with missing or no teeth, its really not as complicated as you might think.

The Dodo spoke with Dr. Heather DiGiacomo, a veterinarian with Newtown Square Veterinary Hospital in Pennsylvania, who explained what to feed your dog if she has fewer chompers than her fellow pups.

Dogs and missing teeth

There are a bunch of reasons why your dog might be missing a tooth.

Some puppies never develop or grow certain teeth, so they will be missing as the dog gets older, Dr. DiGiacomo told The Dodo.

Even if your puppy finishes her teething phase with all of her adult teeth, she could still end up losing them over the years.

As dogs age, periodontal disease is very common, Dr. DiGiacomo explained. If periodontal disease is advanced, it can cause teeth to fall out spontaneously.

An isolated event, like an injury, could also result in your pup losing a tooth or two.

Dogs who undergo an anesthetic dental procedure with their veterinarian may also have surgical extraction of diseased teeth, Dr. DiGiacomo said.

How to feed a dog with missing or no teeth

If your pup is missing teeth, you might be wondering if her food options are more limited than a dog with a full set of pearly whites.

It turns out thats not always the case.

Dogs that are missing teeth can usually eat a normal diet without any changes, Dr. DiGiacomo explained.

According to Dr. DiGiacomo, this also goes for dogs with no teeth at all.

In many cases, dogs with few or no teeth are able to eat the same food they were eating before losing their teeth, Dr. DiGiacomo said. It's amazing to see toothless dogs crunch hard kibble, but they can do so on their hard palate.

That means you wont have to crush up her kibble for years to come.

But while most dogs can continue with their usual diet, it is possible that your pup might need to switch things up.

Some dogs with limited teeth fare better when eating only soft foods, Dr. DiGiacomo said.

And according to Dr. DiGiacomo, your pup should still be able to have both crunchy and soft treats, even if shes missing some or all of her teeth.

Dogs that are missing teeth can have virtually any type of treat, Dr. DiGiacomo said. They have a remarkable ability to prehend (pick up) and crunch hard treats, even if they are missing some or all teeth!

The only way to tell which texture is best for your dog with missing teeth is to just test them out and see how your pup reacts.

It may be trial and error to determine which your dog prefers and can eat more easily, Dr. DiGiacomo explained.

We independently pick all the products we recommend because we love them and think you will too. If you buy a product from a link on our site, we may earn a commission.

10 Best Dog Foods for Older Small Dogs With Few Teeth

Health issues, aging, and even previous accidents can cause tooth loss in dogs. And while you cant save every single tooth, you can meet your dogs nutritional needs, even when they cant chew their kibble.

We have the best options for you if youre looking for dog food for dogs with bad or no teeth.

Our top choice is The Honest Kitchen Dehydrated Dog Food.

Not only does it come in multiple flavorful formulas, but its also shelf-stable and easy to prep for feeding. And, The Honest Kitchen also provides both grain-free and whole-grain puppy food and adult food, so dogs of all sizes and life stages can enjoy it.

But we dont stop there. We also have nine other easy-to-eat options, including choices for small breeds, large breeds, and even senior-friendly food.

Best Budget Option

American Journey Grain-Free Food

Real meat is #1 ingredient

No poultry by-product meal

Omega acids for skin health

Best Overall

The Honest Kitchen Dehydrated Food

Human-grade ingredients

Gently dehydrated

Whole grain recipe

Best Premium Option

ORIJEN Tundra Grain-Free Freeze-Dried Food

90% animal ingredients

WholePrey nutrition

Freeze-dried

Our Top Picks for Dogs With Few Teeth

10 Best Dog Food for Dogs With No Teeth (or Few/Bad Teeth) Reviewed

The following formulas all meet the AAFCOs nutrient profile guidelines. Before switching your dog to a new formula, please consult with your veterinarian.

First 5 Ingredients: Dehydrated Turkey, Organic Oats, Dehydrated Potatoes, Organic Flaxseed, Dehydrated Carrots
Guaranteed Analysis: 22% Crude Protein, 15% Crude Fat, 5% Crude Fiber, 8.6% Moisture
Caloric Content: 470 kcal/cup
Type of Product: No Corn, No Wheat, No Soy; Human-Grade; Pea-Free; Non-GMO; Chicken-Free; With Grain
Life Stage: Adult
Key Feature: Human-grade dehydrated adult dog food with whole grains for healthy digestion

This human-grade formula is dehydrated as a convenient option for parents who want wet food without storage space.

Its higher in calories, offering 470 kcal/cup, perfect for active or larger dogs without teeth.

Its also higher in fat with 15% Crude Fat, an essential energy source for canines. This comes from dehydrated turkey and organic flaxseeds. Turkey also provides glucosamine for limber joints.

Dehydrated honey and dried garlic are naturally antibacterial and anti-inflammatory, which can aid in reducing stress in the joints and digestive system. And whole grains like organic oats provide fiber to further assist in a healthy gut.

Dog owners love that this food is easy to store and fix during mealtimes. But many admit that it will make your whole house smell like garlic.

Human-grade and organic ingredients

Pea-free and chicken-free for sensitivities

High-fat for energy support

Easy to store long-term

Strong garlic smell

Expensive

First 5 Ingredients: Chicken, Chicken Broth, Turkey, Chicken Liver, Potatoes
Guaranteed Analysis: (wet matter basis) 9% Crude Protein, 6% Crude Fat, 1.5% Crude Fiber, 78% Moisture
Caloric Content: 425 kcal/12.5oz can
Type of Product: Grain-Free; No Corn, No Wheat, No Soy; Pea-Free
Food Texture: Pate
Life Stage: Adult
Key Feature: Grain-free wet dog food for budget-conscious owners

This canned dog food is a budget-friendly option for dog owners who need to switch their pup to wet food.

Its high in protein, offering 9% Crude Protein based on wet matter. When compared to dry, it provides 36% Crude Protein. And it includes chicken liver, which is packed with omega-6 fatty acids to soothe dry and itchy skin.

This formulas added glucosamine and essential nutrients make it a suitable senior wet dog food too.

This recipe contains moderate fiber from potatoes and flaxseeds. But for sensitive canines, its grain-free and doesnt include soy or corn.

Even if your dog is missing teeth, this food supplements vitamin D and calcium, which can keep their remaining teeth and gums healthy.

Dog moms and dads say this is one of the most affordable options for wet food. But they warn that it can cause gassiness and burping.

High-protein for muscle support

Contains vitamin D for healthy gums

Grain-free for sensitive dogs

Pate texture is appealing to pups

Causes stinky burps

May cause gas

First 5 Ingredients: Venison, Duck (Ground With Bone), Flounder, Lamb Meat, Duck Liver
Guaranteed Analysis: 37% Crude Protein, 34% Crude Fat, 5% Fiber, 4% Moisture
Caloric Content: 75 kcal/medallion
Type of Product: Grain-Free; Gluten-Free; Non-GMO
Life Stage: All Life Stages
Key Feature: Premium grain-free and high-protein freeze-dried dog food

This premium freeze-dried food offers a raw diet without the need for cutting up or mashing animal proteins.

This food is extremely high in fat at 34% Crude Fat, from the meats it includes. So it may not be the best option for dogs prone to weight gain.

But, if your dog is active or you prefer to feed them a raw diet, this is a great option. Its first 10 ingredients are raw proteins including venison, duck, lamb, boar, and flounder.

These proteins are freeze-dried to prevent harmful bacteria from affecting your pups digestive health.

This recipe is grain-free but includes whole pumpkin and collard greens. These provide dietary fiber for gut health and nutrients like vitamin C for a robust immune system.

Dog parents say this food smells great, unlike other raw foods, and is soft enough to feed as-is. But many admit the steep cost, so they use it as a topper or special meal.

No need to rehydrate

High-protein for muscle growth

Freeze-dried to remove harmful pathogens

Picky dogs eat it easily

Can cause weight gain

Expensive

First 5 Ingredients: Chicken With Ground Bone, Beef Liver, Beef Spleen, Beef Kidney, Carrots
Guaranteed Analysis: 38% Crude Protein, 29% Crude Fat, 5% Crude Fiber, 6% Moisture
Caloric Content: 189kcal/cup
Type of Product: Grain-Free; No Corn, No Wheat, No Soy
Life Stage: Senior
Key Feature: Grain-free and freeze-dried dog food with DHA for cognitive function

This freeze-dried food offers healthy fats for joint support and raw bits to entice picky senior dogs.

While its high in fat and protein, its lower in calories, offering 191 kcal/cup. This is excellent for seniors since their metabolisms slow as they age.

It contains 85% protein content from chicken, beef liver, and beef spleen. And these provide glucosamine and chondroitin, which protect cartilage and keep joints limber.

Salmon oil provides 33% Crude Fat but contains omega fatty acids and DHA. These boost cognitive function and aid in healthy skin and a shiny coat.

Dog moms and dads love the small kibble-shaped bits, and some say you dont have to soak the food. But they admit the extra protein content can cause stinky breath and gas.

Low-calorie to avoid weight gain

Small kibble size for easy eating

Contains DHA for brain health

Free of artificial flavors and preservatives

It can cause stinky breath

Costly

First 5 Ingredients: Lamb, Butternut Squash, Lamb Liver, Kale, Rice
Guaranteed Analysis: (wet matter basis) 10% Crude Protein, 7% Crude Fat, 2% Crude Fiber, 74% Moisture
Caloric Content: 1804 kcal/kg
Type of Product: Human-Grade
Life Stage: All Life Stages
Key Feature: Fresh and human-grade dog food for dogs with a few or no teeth

Get 50% OFF your first Ollie order!

This brand provides customized dog food and is fresh and made with soft ingredients to support dogs without teeth.

Before you start, youll take a quiz to get your dogs perfect recommendation and feeding schedule.

The lamb recipe is high in protein, offering over 40% Crude Protein when measured on a dry matter basis. And its a safe choice for dogs allergic to chicken and beef.

Butternut squash, kale, and rice are high in dietary fiber to aid in digestion. They also contain beta-carotene, which aids eye health and supports the immune system.

Pet parents appreciate that you can see the ingredients in the food, and they admit that it entices even their pickiest eaters. But some say they dont have the room to store the food since you have to freeze it.

Easy to customize

Human-grade and freshly cooked ingredients

Can remove ingredients for allergic pups

Great for picky eaters

Must be frozen or refrigerated

Spoils fast

First 5 Ingredients: Beef, Beef Heart, Beef Liver, Beef Lung, Beef Fat
Guaranteed Analysis: 36% Crude Protein, 32% Crude Fat, 8% Crude Fiber, 8% Moisture
Caloric Content: 272 kcal/cup
Type of Product: Grain-Free; Gluten Free; Limited Ingredient Diet, Pea-Free
Life Stage: All Life Stages
Key Feature: High-protein and limited ingredient diet for small dogs

This grain-free formula offers a single protein option with balanced vitamins and minerals for small breeds.

It only contains eight ingredients, not including supplements. These include a single protein source beef with beef liver, beef heart, and beef lung.

Beef fat and herring oil provide 32% Crude Fat, plus omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids. These offer anti-inflammatory options and aid in heart health.

This is considered a raw diet, so it may not work for all dogs. But thanks to the freeze-drying process, the food can be safely and conveniently stored without refrigeration.

Canine owners say this is the perfect food for small jaws and dogs with allergies. But some hate that you must soak the food for 10-15 minutes before serving.

Single protein source for dogs with allergies

Contains omega fatty acids for joint health

Mini pieces for small jaws

Easy to store

First 5 Ingredients: Turkey, Turkey Heart, Turkey Liver, Salmon, Bamboo Fiber
Guaranteed Analysis: 36% Crude Protein, 22% Crude Fat, 4% Crude Fiber, 14% Moisture
Caloric Content: 10 kcal/level scoop
Type of Product: Grain-Free; Gluten Free; No Corn, No Wheat, No Soy
Life Stage: All Life Stages
Key Feature: High-protein and grain-free soft dry food

This is the best soft dog food with a bigger package than most freeze-dried options. This offers more servings for dogs who eat it exclusively.

It starts with turkey, turkey heart, and turkey liver, which provide 36% Crude Protein. They also contain chondroitin and l-carnitine, which aid in flexible cartilage and offer a metabolic boost.

A unique ingredient bamboo fiber offers a gluten-free and hypoallergenic option for dietary fiber. This aids bowel health and can boost your dogs immune system.

Pet parents adore the mini waffle look of the food and appreciate the soft texture. But they admit that pickier dogs may not enjoy it.

Chicken-free and beef-free to avoid protein sensitivities

Air-dried and freeze-dried for easy chewing

Free of fillers and artificial additives

Comes in a larger size

First 5 Ingredients: Beef, Beef Broth, Beef Liver, Carrots, Peas
Guaranteed Analysis: (wet matter basis) 8.5% Crude Protein, 6% Crude Fat, 1.5% Crude Fiber, 78% Moisture
Caloric Content: 398 kcal/cup
Type of Product: No Corn, No Wheat, No Soy; With Grain
Food Texture: Pate
Life Stage: Adult
Key Feature: Wheat-free wet dog food made with real beef for dogs who need extra protein

This wet dog food is grain-inclusive and high-calorie, offering a balanced diet for exclusive feeding. And its free of chicken for sensitive dogs.

It contains 396 kcal/can. So most dogs under 20 pounds can eat one can a day. But speak with your vet to ensure youre feeding your pup enough calories.

Brown rice, barley, and oatmeal provide complex carbohydrates for easier digestion. They also contain zinc and calcium for strong bones and a healthy immune system.

This food also contains blueberries and cranberries. These are high in antioxidants, and cranberries can reduce bacteria in the urinary system, keeping UTIs at bay a common issue with dental problems and toothless dogs.

Pet parents say their dog has maintained a healthy weight since switching to this food. But many hate the texture and say it can be slimy and gummy.

Contains cranberries for urinary health

Grain-inclusive for healthy digestion

Can be fed exclusively

High protein for muscle health

Can be gummy

Contains carrageenan, which some owners avoid

First 5 Ingredients: Pork, Pork Liver, Lamb, Green Peas, Green Lentils
Guaranteed Analysis: 32% Crude Protein, 16% Crude Fat, 3% Fiber, 8% Moisture
Caloric Content: 480 kcal/cup
Type of Product: Human-Grade; Low Glycemic; Grain-Free
Life Stage: All Life Stages
Key Feature: High-protein and grain-free dehydrated dog food with elderberry for immune support

This human-grade dehydrated dog food includes low-glycemic ingredients for dogs who need fiber but cant eat grains.

Instead of chicken, this food starts with pork and lamb. But they still offer 32% Crude Protein and are high in amino acids for muscle support and joint health.

Green peas, green lentils, and sweet potatoes replace grains in this recipe. They provide soluble and insoluble fiber one keeps your dog regular, and the other keeps diarrhea at bay.

This food is high in calories at 480 kcal/cup, so its excellent for all breeds and adult dogs who need a high-calorie diet. But if your pup is prone to weight gain, it may not be the best option. Be sure to follow the nutrition guide.

Pet owners are happy that theyve found a balanced diet that doesnt contain beef or chicken. But they say it requires a lot of water or broth to soak in, which can become messy.

Grain-free and without high allergen proteins

High-calorie for active dogs

Helps fix constipation and loose stool

Great for picky eaters

First 5 Ingredients: Lamb, Lamb Heart, Lamb Tripe, Lamb Liver, Lamb Kidney
Guaranteed Analysis: 35% Crude Protein, 33% Crude Fat, 2% Fiber, 14% Moisture
Caloric Content: 318 kcal/level scoop
Type of Product: Limited Ingredient Diet; No Corn, No Wheat, No Soy; Grain-Free; Pea-Free; Non-GMO
Life Stage: All Life Stages
Key Feature: Human-grade and air-dried dog food made with novel proteins

This formula is air-dried to resemble a soft jerky, making it easy to eat for most dogs, even those with few teeth.

It contains just two non-protein ingredients chicory and dried kelp. These provide fiber for digestion and antioxidants to boost immunity.

With a moisture content of 14%, this food is soft and supple, which makes it easier for dogs to eat. While you can add broth or water if your dog needs it, it can also be fed as is.

Offering 35% Crude Protein, this food includes lamb and New Zealand green mussels. These are high in taurine and glucosamine, which can boost mobility and heart health.

Dog owners love this high-protein food and appreciate that it includes raw protein. But they admit its expensive and can stink up a room.

Offers a raw-food diet for digestion

Can be fed without soaking

High in taurine to support a strong heart

Comes in larger sizes

How to Choose the Best Dog Food Dogs With Few Or No Teeth

How do you choose the best dog food for dogs with bad teeth? Heres what to look for.

Why Do Dogs Lose Their Teeth?

There are a few reasons why dogs lose teeth. Puppies lose them to get their adult teeth. But, adults and seniors usually lose them due to periodontal disease.

Periodontal disease is when plaque and tartar cake are on the teeth and gums and damage the gum tissue. This leads to a loss of teeth because the bacteria destroy the segment holding them.

This usually happens due to aging and declining care with senior dogs. But adult dogs should have healthy teeth and gums. If your canine isnt a senior but has advanced disease or is losing teeth, this could mean an underlying disease or lack of care in teeth cleaning.

No matter what, adult and senior pooches must be taken to the vet if they lose teeth. That way, you can rule out health issues and diseases.

Health Problems Associated with Your Dogs Dental Health

Sometimes, youve done all you can, and your dog still has periodontal disease. Health issues like diabetes and Cushings disease can directly affect your dogs teeth and cause them to fall out.

But, can your dog losing teeth also cause issues itself? Yes. Many health problems can surface if your dogs dental health declines. These include:

Halitosis (or bad breath)

Inflammation

Weight loss

Heart disease

Liver disease

Diabetes complications

A broken jaw (in small dogs, due to infections and weakening of the bones)

And how does this happen? For issues like heart disease and liver disease, the harmful cultured bacteria from the mouth can also affect the heart valves and liver if left untreated.

For conditions like halitosis or injuries like a broken jaw, these are typical symptoms of infections and contamination in the mouth.

Signs That Your Dog Is Suffering From Dental Issues

There are usually quite a few signs that your dog has dental problems. These include (but are not limited to):

Tooth loss

Redness or swelling in the gums

Bleeding gums

Yelps and moans when eating, yawning, or playing

Blood on food, toys, or on their bed

Bumps in the mouth and jaw

Extreme fatigue

Bad breath (Halitosis)

Sudden weight loss

Difficulty eating (or not eating at all)

Sepsis (in severe cases)

If your dog is experiencing any (or all) of these symptoms, take them to the veterinarian immediately.

What To Look For When Buying Food For Dogs With Few Teeth

What food do you buy a dog with no or few teeth? Heres what I recommend.

Soft Texture

First things first, you want to find soft food. Your dog should not be chewing hard or crunchy dry food with bad teeth; they cant do it if they dont have any.

Instead, focus on formulas like wet food, dehydrated options (be sure to add broth if theyre super dry), fresh-cooked, or even raw food. And, of course, always consult your vet before switching your pups food.

High-Quality Nutrients

Being unable to eat kibble shouldnt keep your dog from getting the nutrients they need.

Most commercial wet, dehydrated, raw, and freshly cooked foods have all the nutrients your dog needs. But be sure to read the labels.

Youll want to ensure your dog gets enough protein, fat, and healthy carbohydrates. And omega fatty acids, calcium, potassium, taurine, phosphorus, and glucosamine are also critical.

As always, talk to your vet to see if there are any nutrients that you should be supplementing.

Appealing Taste

As your dog ages or experiences dental issues, they may be reluctant to eat their food or try new options. So focus on finding tasty choices. These formulas are usually slightly higher in fat and have flavorings like meat liver, fish oil, fresh fruits and veggies, and even gravy.

High Protein

It may seem like wet and dehydrated food is lower in protein but thats not the case. Its just as important to feed a high-protein diet with wet, raw, fresh, or dehydrated food as it is dry kibble.

This is because protein keeps your dog full and provides nutrients like l-lysine for metabolic support and vitamins and minerals like calcium for strong bones and teeth (or gums!).

Luckily, wet and dehydrated food typically have 3x the amount of protein than their wet matter basis analysis.

This is because wet food is measured differently than dry. So if a canned option says it has 9% Crude Protein, it has at least 27%.

Senior-Specific Formulas

Seniors naturally tend to have more sensitive teeth or even tooth loss. And some dont drink enough water daily.

Because of this, senior-specific formulas create food with more water content, which means the kibble isnt hard and crunchy.

This can benefit your dog, even if they arent a senior yet. Plus, senior formulas usually have higher percentages of nutrients like calcium which can be a fantastic option for dogs who risk losing teeth.

Our Verdict

While your dog may have lost their teeth, that doesnt mean they cant eat healthy and high-quality food. There are many options for dogs with bad or no teeth, and weve listed our top favorites.

Our number one pick is The Honest Kitchen Dehydrated Dog Food.

Its easy to find for most pet owners and comes in different formulas for whatever you need.

But if you need a specific food or ingredients, the other nine choices may work well for you too. No matter what, all of the options on this list can help feed your toothless friend.

FAQ

Do you have any pressing questions about feeding your dog with bad teeth? Here are some common questions and our answers.

What can I feed my old dog with bad teeth?

If your dog has terrible teeth, feeding them a super hard kibble can cause more issues. So instead, focus on dehydrated, fresh, or wet foods.

However, remember that you dont want your dogs dental health to worsen. Take them to the vet to ensure they dont have any diseases or abscesses. If left untreated, these could cause significant health issues and loss of your dogs teeth.

And, be sure to start a dental routine as well if possible. Brushing regularly can keep your dogs teeth in better shape.

What can I feed my dog with sensitive teeth?

They would eat a similar diet to dogs with no teeth or few teeth. Softer foods, dehydrated options, or even raw food would work better than hard kibble.

Of course, always check with your vet and see if this is a symptom of periodontal disease. And again, always try to take care of your dogs teeth with regular brushing or dental chews.

Can dogs without teeth eat dry dog food?

Yes, they can, but not in the same way. Just because your dog cant chew doesnt mean they cant mush around the food and swallow it. But, you should first soften the dry food with broth or water. That way, the food is easier to eat.

What does it mean if my dogs losing teeth?

They may have dental problems that have been left untreated or an underlying health issue. Or, they may have had an accident and caused a tooth to fall out. These are serious issues and should be checked out as soon as possible.

If your dog starts to lose their teeth and isnt a puppy, you need to take them to the vet immediately.

Is it normal for dogs to lose their teeth as they grow older?

Yes. Senior dogs will have a more challenging time keeping all of their teeth. And puppies will usually lose their teeth right before or even as theyre reaching adulthood. However, its not healthy, you want to avoid tooth loss due to poor dental care.

Start a brushing regimen with your dog when theyre a pup to get them used to the feeling. If you cant brush your dogs teeth, remember to get their teeth cleaned at the vets office and offer dental chews.

Can my dog eat comfortably without teeth?

Yes, but it will take some getting used to. If your dog recently had teeth removed, they may experience a bit of discomfort. But this usually goes away as the incision site closes and heals.

However, be sure to keep them comfortable by feeding them wet food or food that has been soaked to be soft.

How do I feed my dog with no teeth?

Its easier than you think. Just switch to wet or softer food (like fresh or dehydrated formulas). Be sure to speak with your veterinarian before switching to a new food.

Is giving an exclusive wet food diet bad for my dogs teeth?

If your dog is already toothless or losing their teeth, wet food wont make this any worse. In fact, at that point, your vet will most likely recommend wet food.

However, wet food may not be the best choice if youre trying to keep up with your dogs dental care. This is because it doesnt scrape off plaque and tartar like kibble, thus making it harder for your dog to keep their teeth clean.