Hi all, my first post in Champ dogs.

Our 6 month old pup (GSP) is just about to start showing and in practicing showing teeth etc. we've notice that the lower canine on one side goes straight up into the upper gum, rather than outside and overlapping. The actual tooth is sited correctly between the two large teeth on the upper jaw (?outer incisor and upper canine), is just doesn't show as much outside as the one on the other side of the mouth. Everywhere else seems to be a perfect scissor bite, except for this tooth. Would this be considered a serious fault in the dentition in the showring?

Many thanks

Hi camster, the problem you describe sounds as though it could be uncomfortable for the puppy. Have you asked your vet about it?

Unfortunately dentition problems in gundog breeds are heavily penalised in the showring. Speaking from experience, I have an American Cocker Spaniel that is 'bred in the purple'. He came from the top breeder and we had very high hopes for him.............until he developed a mouth fault at 5 months. We never did show him, it was extremely disappointing at the time. Tears were shed, but he's been a very happy sofa dog ever since and he's now nearly 10 years old.

Have the vet check it out just incase it's causing any pain or other damage to the pups mouth.

Dawn R.