​You may have wondered if that grinding sound you heard while curled up on the couch with your dog was really coming from your pup. Yes, it is possible. The behavior is called bruxism.

Grinding may seem harmless at first, but it can be a sign of something more serious. We’ll explore common causes, when you should be concerned, and how safe chewing outlets—like wood dog chews—can support your dog’s emotional and dental health.

Why Do Dogs Grind Their Teeth?

Dogs grind their teeth more often than humans do, and they usually do so while awake. There are many possible reasons, but the following are the most common:

  • Dental pain: Problems like cracked teeth, abscesses, or gum disease may cause dogs to grind their teeth in response to discomfort.
  • Stress and anxiety: Some dogs grind their teeth during stressful situations, such as thunderstorms, vet visits, or separation anxiety.
  • Digestive upset: Nausea or reflux can cause a dog to grind its teeth, often accompanied by lip-licking or frequent swallowing.
  • Jaw alignment problems: A malocclusion (abnormal bite) can cause the teeth to rub together unintentionally.

When Should You Be Concerned?

The occasional brief grinding is not alarming. But regular teeth grinding can damage enamel or expose the sensitive pulp.

Contact your vet if you notice:

  • Persistent grinding sessions.
  • Signs of oral pain (drooling, pawing at the mouth, refusing to eat hard food).
  • Worn, chipped, or fractured teeth.
  • Other symptoms of illness, such as vomiting or lethargy.

Your vet may recommend a dental examination (often performed under sedation) to detect hidden problems below the gumline.

How to Help Your Dog at Home

Once your vet has ruled out or treated any medical conditions, you can help your dog feel better by encouraging healthy chewing. For dogs, chewing is more than entertainment—it’s a natural behavior that:

  • Relieves stress: Chewing releases endorphins that help calm anxious dogs.
  • Soothes discomfort: For teething puppies or dogs with sore gums, chewing provides comforting pressure.
  • Supports dental health: Gnawing removes plaque, massages gums, and helps prevent dental disease that may lead to grinding.

The Best Dog Chew: Coffee Wood Chews Are a Great Choice

The right chew is essential. You need something that is durable, safe for teeth, and effective for dental care. That’s why coffee wood dog chews have become a popular choice for many pet owners.

What makes them unique?

  • A safe outlet for anxiety: Coffee wood chews provide a natural and effective way to channel nervous energy.
  • Tooth-friendly texture: Softer than antlers but harder than nylon, coffee wood frays into soft fibers rather than splintering. This reduces the chance of cracked teeth while still satisfying strong chewers.
  • Natural dental care: The fibrous texture acts like a toothbrush, gently removing plaque and supporting gum health.
  • Eco-friendly and 100% natural: Made from a by-product of the coffee plant, these chews are hypoallergenic, low-calorie, and chemical-free.

👉 Always supervise your dog with any chew, and choose a size that matches their chewing ability to avoid choking hazards.

Final Thoughts

It can be unsettling to hear your dog grind their teeth, but it’s also an important signal. With a vet check-up and the right at-home care, you can protect your dog’s comfort and dental health.

By offering safe, natural alternatives like coffee wood dog chews, you can help reduce stress, protect their teeth, and give them a healthier way to chew.

A happy dog will keep its tail wagging—and their teeth strong