Why is my dog's jaw clicking and grinding when he yawns or licks?

Question

I have a basset hound, his mouth clicks and grinds his teeth whenever he yawns and closes his mouth and even if he licks his lips his jaw seems to move odd and it sounds like he is grinding his teeth. I have felt his jaw line and around his mouth on the outside it has a feeling of a clicking feeling and the inside of his mouth looks okay. Pet's info: Dog | Basset Hound | Male | neutered | 40 lbs

Karly Macon, DVM, MS, CVA Certified Veterinary Acupuncturist · Accepted Answer

This could be a neurological problem you are describing, or some kind of arthritis in his jaw/temporomandibular joint area. Or, sometimes dogs when they smell a strange smell, like urine for example, will exhibit something similar to what you are describing that almost looks like a very fast teeth-chattering kind of behavior. This is normal. I do recommend a full exam by your vet to make sure that this is not a partial focal seizure or severe dental disease or jaw arthritis/jaw dislocation that is causing the behavior, as these things are much more serious and a possibility as well. Try to video tape this behavior-- we'd be happy to view this on a Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach consultation, or you can take it to your vet during the examination. Best of luck and hope that helps!

Why is my dog's jaw clicking and grinding when he yawns or licks?

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