Most owners are familiar with the large chewing teeth at the back of the horse’s mouth. But the smaller, more unusual teeth – wolf teeth, canines, and the sometimes unpredictable way they erupt – often raise questions.
Do they cause problems? Should they be removed? Why do some horses have them and others don’t?
The truth is that these “odd” teeth can be completely harmless in some horses and very problematic in others. The key is recognising when they matter and understanding how they affect comfort, ridden work, and welfare.
This article aims to demystify the lesser-known teeth in your horse’s mouth so you can make informed, confident decisions about their care.
Understanding Wolf Teeth
Wolf teeth are small, pointed teeth that sit just in front of the first upper cheek teeth. They typically erupt between 6 months and 3 years of age.
Why Are They There?
They are considered vestigial premolars – evolutionary leftovers that horses once needed but no longer serve a functional role.
Where Are They Found?
- Most commonly in the upper jaw
- Occasionally in the lower jaw
- Sometimes only on one side
- Sometimes not present at all
Lower wolf teeth are relatively rare but more likely to interfere with the bit if present.
Do Wolf Teeth Always Cause Problems?
No. Some horses carry wolf teeth their entire lives without pain or behavioural issues. However, the position, size, and angle determine whether they will cause trouble.
Signs Wolf Teeth May Be a Problem
- Head tossing when bridled
- Reluctance to take contact
- Sensitivity to rein pressure
- Resistance when turning
- Opening the mouth or grabbing the bit
- Sudden behaviour changes in young horses starting work
Because the bit sits directly over the wolf teeth region, sensitive or abnormally positioned wolf teeth can cause discomfort with every stride.
Case example:
A four-year-old gelding who was examined had become explosive when asked to trot under saddle. The trainer suspected a back issue. Instead, he had two large, angled wolf teeth pressing into the bit. Once removed and healed, he became calm and willing again.
When Removal Is Recommended
- Before backing or early training
- When the teeth are large or positioned toward the bit
- When the horse shows bit resistance
- When the teeth are loose or fractured
- If the lower jaw contains wolf teeth
Removal is a simple, quick procedure performed under sedation, followed by a short healing period.
Canine Teeth: What Owners Should Know
Canine teeth are very different from wolf teeth. They are larger, sharper, and sit further forward in the mouth.
Who Has Them?
- Most geldings and stallions
- Some mares (approximately 10 to 20 percent)
- They erupt between 4 and 6 years of age
Do Horses Use Canines for Chewing?
No. These teeth are not involved in grinding food. They are believed to be remnants of ancient fighting behaviour.
Do Canine Teeth Cause Problems?
Sometimes.
They can:
- Become sharp and cut lips or tongue
- Interfere with bit pressure
- Accumulate tartar
- Become sensitive if fractured
- Cause discomfort during bitting or dental work
Many owners don’t realise that canines can get very long and may require occasional rounding or smoothing to prevent soft tissue injury.
Case story:
A gelding suddenly began resisting bridling. Once sedated, we discovered his large canines had become razor sharp, likely from years of bit contact. A gentle reduction and polish made an immediate difference – he stood quietly the very next day.
Do Canines Need Routine Care?
Yes. Even though they don’t chew, they collect tartar and can irritate the gums if not monitored. Regular cleaning and occasional smoothing keep them comfortable.
Extra Teeth, Missing Teeth, and Odd Anatomy
Not all horses read the rulebook. Odd dental variations are more common than owners expect.
Supernumerary Teeth (Extra Teeth)
Some horses grow extra molars or incisors. If these crowd the mouth or interfere with chewing, they may require intervention.
Missing Teeth
Miniature horses and ponies often struggle with overcrowded mouths and missing teeth. Missing teeth can cause:
- Overgrowth of the opposing tooth
- Uneven wear
- Sharp edges
- Chewing inefficiency
Blind Wolf Teeth
These are wolf teeth that remain under the gum surface. They can still cause bitting discomfort even though they aren’t visible.
Horses with blind wolf teeth often show dramatic improvement once they are removed.
Odd Angles and Rotations
Young horses may grow teeth at unusual angles as their jaws develop. Many correct themselves, but others require careful monitoring.
How These Teeth Affect Bit Comfort
Because wolf teeth and canines sit in the part of the mouth where the bit applies pressure, any sharpness, sensitivity, or poor positioning can translate directly into ridden behaviour.
Signs of bit-related pain include:
- Grabbing the bit
- Head flipping
- Leaning or bracing
- Inconsistent contact
- Tongue lolling
- Opening the mouth
- Stiffness through the poll
Often, owners assume the issue is training, saddle fit, or rider error. Dental discomfort is frequently overlooked.
If your horse develops new resistance or tension under saddle, dental assessment should be one of the first steps.
When These Teeth Don’t Matter
Not every unusual tooth requires removal or intervention.
Wolf teeth may be harmless when:
- They are small
- They sit high in the gum
- The horse is not bitted
- They don’t interfere with soft tissues
- The horse is completely unbothered by them
Canine teeth usually don’t need removal unless fractured.
Extra or missing teeth may be manageable with good regular dentistry.
The goal is always the same: comfort, safety, and long-term welfare – not aggressive intervention.
What Your Veterinarian Looks For
A proper dental exam under sedation allows your vet to assess:
- Wolf tooth size and position
- Presence of blind wolf teeth
- Canine length, sharpness, and tartar
- Effects on bit contact
- Soft tissue health
- Risks of interference with cheek teeth
- Whether odd teeth are causing asymmetry
Owners often report immediate improvement in ridden behaviour after addressing these issues.
Supporting Your Horse’s Comfort
You can help your horse by:
- Scheduling regular dental exams
- Observing changes in ridden behaviour
- Checking for tartar buildup on canines
- Looking for head sensitivity during bridling
- Introducing the bit slowly in young horses
Small, proactive steps prevent long-term discomfort.
The Takeaway
Wolf teeth, canines, and unusual tooth anatomy aren’t inherently problematic. What matters is how they interact with your horse’s comfort, chewing, and ridden work.
The best approach is informed observation, early assessment, and a collaborative relationship with your veterinarian.
Your horse’s mouth is a delicate, busy place. Understanding these “odd” teeth helps you advocate for their welfare – today and for the rest of their life.
Disclaimer
This article provides general information only and does not replace veterinary advice for your individual horse. If you’re concerned, contact your veterinarian promptly.