Should I get a puppy with inset canines? Will it cause health issues?

Yes, you are smart to be concerned especially if you want to show/breed the puppy. If it was just going to be a pet it probably would not matter much. The incisors may eventually come in but what if they don't? Then you will not be able to show him/her. If 3 of 6 puppies are affected it is likely a genetic problem. I personally think you should look elsewhere for a puppy.

An overbite could cause serious damage to the hard palate if the malocclusion is severe and the bottom teeth cause damage to the top of the mouth. Sometimes deciduous and adult baby teeth need to be extracted with an overbite, and sometimes certain types of physical therapy can help the adult teeth grow in appropriately so that they don't require extraction. If you would be unable or unwilling to invest in dental care, including potential advanced dental care with a specialist you may want to look for another puppy since it would be very difficult to know the extent of the dental issues without having a vet examine the pup.

If the underbite is mild, most pets live with not issues due to the abnormality (there are some breeds where an underbite is actually standard to the breed, such as a bulldog). If the underbite is more severe it may cause problems and if you had plans for breeding the dog it would not be advised with this abnormality.

I honestly would try to wait and see on this one. There is a chance this won't pose any major concerns for Bear, especially if you are diligent with brushing his teeth and getting him regular dental cleanings. Even though the teeth can dig into the bottom jaw quite a bit, Bear may compensate for this himself and not cause any injuries here. I hope that this helps you in your decision making moving forward. Best wishes and take care.

Slight underbites and overbites do not cause any major issue in terms of eating, drinking, chewing on a bone or grinding teeth. If you are concerned, there are veterinary dentists. You would have to ask your veterinarian if there is one in your area and get a referral. In my 17 years of practice, I have seen dogs with severe under bites do just fine! But I have heard of veterinary dental braces which would need a veterinary dentist. I do not recommend putting any dog through that unless it was absolutely necessary though.

An over bite can be a problem depending on the alignment of the lower jaw. If the lower canines come in contact with the hard pallet, then that can cause a problem. This can be fixed however by removing the lower teeth or shortening and capping them. I hope this is helpful and please feel free to post any additional questions.

Thank you for submitting your question regarding Pippa. Every puppy grows and develops at a different rate. At this age, I would recommend monitoring her. If her facial conformation continues to rapidly change, then you will need to discuss it with her veterinarian. If any of her teeth are causing pain by contacting the opposite gum tissue, then intervention by.a veterinary dentist may be necessary. Most puppies will be fine. An underbite is generally less worrisome then an overbite where the lower canine teeth can contact the hard palate. I hope this information helps!