Dog tooth extraction complications symptoms

Dogs often bounce back quickly after dental work, but sometimes things don’t go as smoothly. Knowing the signs of trouble after a tooth extraction can mean the difference between a minor fix and a serious issue. A golden retriever owner in Vermont noticed her pup avoiding his favorite chew toy three days post-surgery—turns out, a small piece of bone had gotten stuck in the socket, causing irritation.

Swelling that lingers or worsens is a red flag. Mild puffiness around the muzzle is normal for the first 48 hours, but if it feels hot to the touch or grows larger, it could signal infection. A vet in Yorkshire treated a terrier whose owner dismissed swelling as "just part of healing"—by the time they sought help, an abscess had formed, requiring antibiotics and additional procedures.​

Unusual discharge from the mouth needs immediate attention. Clear saliva is fine, but yellow or green pus, or blood that doesn’t stop within 24 hours, points to problems. A border collie in Oregon started drooling thick, brownish fluid a week after extraction; X-rays showed a fragment of tooth root left behind, which had to be removed surgically.​

Changes in eating habits rarely mean nothing. Some dogs eat less for a day or two, but refusal to eat entirely after 72 hours is cause for concern. A dachshund in Ontario began dropping kibble and whimpering while chewing—her owner discovered she’d developed a dry socket, a painful condition where the blood clot dislodges, exposing the bone.​

Lethargy beyond the first recovery day warrants a call to the vet. Anesthesia can leave dogs tired, but if your pup is listless, uninterested in walks, or running a fever (over 103°F/39.4°C), it may indicate infection or inflammation. A vet in Texas notes that older dogs, especially those with underlying conditions like diabetes, are more prone to such complications.​

Bad breath that sticks around post-surgery isn’t normal. Temporary odor from healing is expected, but a foul, rotten smell after a week suggests bacterial growth. A poodle in Scotland’s owner thought the smell was "just dog breath"—it turned out to be osteomyelitis, an infection in the jawbone that needed aggressive treatment.​

Knowing local regulations helps too. In many European countries, veterinarians must provide post-op care instructions in writing, and owners are legally obligated to seek follow-up care if complications arise. In the U.S., while laws vary, animal welfare groups stress that timely treatment for dental issues is part of responsible pet ownership.​

Most extraction complications are manageable with prompt care. Keep a close eye on your dog for the first two weeks, note any changes, and don’t hesitate to contact your vet. A little vigilance goes a long way toward ensuring their recovery is quick and comfortable—and gets them back to stealing treats off the counter in no time.