Is Tooth Loss a Sign of Neglect?
Hello. I am adopting a four- or five-year old Pomeranian who
was rescued from a puppy mill. They had to remove
her back teeth because of the owner not taking
care of her. When I went to visit her she came
right over and sat on my lap. I was wondering what is
the best diet for her to be on since she does not
have back teeth. I just want to make her life a
little better than it is now.
Thanks
Gerald
Lancaster Ohio
First, let me congratulate you on rescuing an animal that needed a home. Based on what you have described regarding your dog´s behavior, I suspect that she will make a very nice pet.
Before I answer your question about what to feed her, I would like to point out that the loss of your dog´s rear teeth does not by itself indicate that she has been neglected. Many factors play a role in the development of dental disease. These include home care, genetics, breed and diet. Pomeranians are very highly predisposed to dental problems, and there are plenty of well-cared-for, well-loved four-year-old Pomeranians living without rear teeth. They generally live comfortable, happy lives.
And there is more good news: most dogs and cats that have lost teeth can eat the same diets as those who have not. I know pets who happily gum down hard food even though they don´t have a single tooth in their mouth.
Because dry food is generally better for pets´ teeth than soft food, I recommend that you try a high-quality dry food for your dog first. If she has difficulty eating it, then you may have to try something softer (such as moistened kibble or a high-quality canned food).
In either case, remember that your new pet is at risk of developing more dental problems in the future. Brush her remaining teeth daily, and have a vet check her mouth once or twice each year.
You have questions. 
Teeth loss in dogs can be prevented by the feeding of an all natural raw food diet (search BARF DIET in google) . Dogs (aka wolves) need to exercise their gums, jaws, teeth by chewing raw bones — if you were to force a wolf to eat “moistened kibble” their teeth would begin to fall out as well. Switch your dog to a BARF diet and you’ll never worry about a vet visit for tooth-care or otherwise. Best.