Learning to show the teeth

Your dog doesn't have to pull back his lips on command: you're getting him used to letting you show his mouth gently.

Start with small, pleasant touches, then gradually build up the movement required. [1, 3]

Beginner — Accepting hands near the muzzle

1. Start with an easy touch

In a quiet place, briefly touch the side of the muzzle, take your hand away, then give a small reward.

The little game: “I touch you, a nice surprise arrives!” If even this touch is difficult, simply start by bringing your hand close, without touching. [1]

2. Keep the attempts very short

At first, there's no need to try to see the teeth. Work only on the touch, then release.

Try this: a few easy repetitions, followed by a break. Move on to the next step when your dog stays comfortable. Progress can take several days or weeks. [1]

3. Listen to his reactions

A dog that freezes, tightens his lips, looks away sideways or growls may be uncomfortable.

Your reflex: stop the movement and go back to a simpler step. Don't punish the growl and don't hold the muzzle shut to finish at all costs. [2]

Intermediate — Showing the first teeth

1. Lift a small part of the lip

Once the touch is well accepted, gently move a small portion of lip aside to make a few teeth visible.

Try this: one brief movement, then release and reward. Don't pinch the lips and don't put your fingers between the teeth. Ask an instructor to show you the movement.

2. Learn the presentation suited to your breed

Examining the bite and examining the full set of teeth don't necessarily call for the same movements. The requirements vary according to the standard.

Your mission: ask your breeder or instructor what the judge will need to see. To look at the bite, the jaws are naturally closed; don't clamp them shut yourself. [3]

3. Build up the duration in moderation

Once the movement is easy, hold it slightly longer to leave time to look, then release.

Try this: work on each area to be shown separately before linking them. If your dog pulls his head away, simplify. The examination must stay gentle, without needlessly intrusive handling. [1, 4]

Advanced — Preparing for the show situation

1. Link the movement to the standing position

First teach the teeth presentation in a comfortable position. Then fit it into a brief stack.

Try this: ask for the stand, briefly show an area he has already mastered, then reward and release. This sequence is a training suggestion to prepare for the examination.

2. Add a calm observer

Your dog may accept the movement at home and be less at ease when someone leans in to look.

Your progression: start with an observer at a distance while you show the teeth. Bring them closer gradually. If another person is to do the handling, go back to the small steps with them. [1, 2]

3. Follow the judge's lead

In the ring, wait to find out what the judge wants to see. Depending on the situation, they may ask you to show the teeth yourself or carry out the examination themselves.

Your reflex: ask for any instruction you don't understand to be clarified. Don't open the mouth repeatedly and don't force the handling to anticipate every request. [3, 4]

If he suddenly refuses

A new difficulty may also be linked to discomfort in the mouth. If you notice pain, bleeding or an unusual reaction, stop the exercise and ask a vet for advice.

Success is visible teeth and a dog who stays confident.

The movements and durations suggested are teaching guidelines. They do not replace a demonstration suited to your dog. The illustration accompanies the steps; it is not a technical diagram of handling.