I have a toy poodle rescue, 9 years old, that had genetically bad teeth. We've had him 5 years and year by year he was losing teeth at his dental. Finally in July at his dental, the vet had to pull all but three canines. He does fine with just those three teeth and is actually a happier, healthier dog without them! And he has no problem keeping his tongue in his mouth.
Being nine years old, his recovery was quite slow from the dental and we had to hand feed him for a few weeks, and he also needed pain meds for about ten days. Slowly he learned to pick up food from a plate on his own. We feed him his regular kibble moistened, or sometimes a canned version of his regular kibble for one meal of the day, just because I want to make sure he is getting his calories in. He is clearly able to eat kibble out of his bowl on his own now, as his gums have toughened up and are almost as strong as his teeth were. He also gums a deer antler quite often, and always has one hidden in his bed. He has actually gained weight since having all the teeth removed, and we're thinking a diet may be in order. I think he eats more/better because he's not in pain.
Don't worry. There is a learning curve, but your pup will do just fine and within a few months he'll be eating like normal.
Diana |