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Is it safe to pull my dog's loose tooth out at home myself?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Small (up to 22lb) | Female | 20 lbs

Can I pull out my dog's carnassial tooth myself at home

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Karly Macon, DVM, MS, CVA Certified Veterinary Acupuncturist

Veterinarian

Published on April 4th, 2017

Carnassial teeth have three roots, and unless all three roots are completely rotten and the tooth is only dangling by a piece of gum, I don't see any way you are going to accomplish this at home with no anesthesia, without serious risk to yourself and your dog. They often seem really loose, but require special equipment to extract safely even under anesthesia. Chances are if one tooth has issues, there are others as well and Millie really should have a complete oral exam done under general anesthesia so xrays can be taken of all the teeth, not just the one in question.

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Other Answers

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    Answered By Christie Long, DVM

    Veterinarian, Certified Veterinary Acupuncturist

    Published on April 4th, 2017

    No, I don't recommend it. The carnassial tooth has 3 roots, and even though it may appear to be loose, it can almost never be extracted without using a dental elevator, which is a tool used to pry the tooth out of socket. This wouldn't be fair to Millie, as it would very likely cause her pain, and also a good bit of bleeding. If you need financial help paying for a dental, check out carecredit.com. They offer credit cards specifically to pay for veterinary bills.

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