Cairn Terrier Forum:
Teeth

Can anyone tell me about the structure of a Cairns teeth? Are they suppose to have 6 teeth between the k-9? Is it OK for the bottom teeth to be forward of the top or is this considered a defect?

Ron, An overbite like that in Cairns is unacceptable and sure sounds just like a birth defect to me. The bottom teeth should fit just inside the top teeth, and the dogs lips should perfectly match, sounds just like a birth defect to me. scroll on down the message board, and there is a lady whose name is pagoda click on her name and ask her for sure. She is supposed to have years of experience and usually answers lots of questions in here. .......... Are you having a problem w/your dog? I hope this helps.

--Nikki

Ron,

There are supposed to be 6 incisors between the canines. What you are describing is known as an undershot jaw. A dog with a bite such as this cannot be shown and should not be bred.