Why every horse, from sport horse to Shetland, needs dental care

All horses and donkeys have teeth – so they all need regular dental check-ups

Whether you own a sport horse, leisure horse, young or old pony, donkey, or even a non-ridden pasture companion: all equines have teeth, and all of them need regular dental care.

Yet many people still believe that only sport horses need dental attention. Nothing could be further from the truth. Oral problems in horses are caused by natural wear (or lack thereof), genetics, diet, and age – not by the horse’s activity.

What does an equine dentist actually do?

An equine dentist is (should be) a veterinarian with advanced expertise in dental care for horses. Their work goes far beyond filing sharp points.

Key tasks of an equine dentist:

• Diagnosing and treating dental disease

• Correcting dental abnormalities (hooks, waves, etc.)

• Extracting damaged or loose teeth

• Advising on nutrition and bit fitting based on anatomy

• Preventing serious issues like sinusitis

Only a small part of the job relates to sport – most care is relevant to all horses, regardless of activity.

Common dental issues in non-ridden horses

Even ponies that live peacefully in the pasture can develop dental problems.

Typical issues include:

• Malocclusions (hooks, ramps)

• Tooth decay or fractures

• Difficulty shedding milk teeth

• Sharp enamel points causing cheek ulcers

• Sinus infections linked to dental issues

These often go unnoticed but can lead to pain, weight loss, or behavioural changes.

Small ponies deserve professional dental care too

At Equide, we provide high-quality dental care for every horse, pony, or donkey – no matter their size or age.

Treated in the best conditions

Thanks to our specially developed treatment lift, even the smallest ponies can be examined and treated safely and comfortably.

FAQ

Q1: Why do small ponies and donkeys also need dental check-ups?
A: Even small ponies and donkeys can develop dental issues such as sharp edges, wear, or hooks. Regular check-ups help detect problems early and prevent pain or loss of appetite.

Q2: How often should a pony or donkey get a dental check-up?
A: Ideally at least once per year, and more frequently if there are signs of discomfort like dropping food, reduced appetite, or difficulty chewing.

Q3: What happens during a dental check-up for ponies/donkeys?
A: The vet examines the teeth, checks for sharp ridges, hooks, misalignments, and uses appropriate instruments to correct them if necessary.

Q4: Is treatment different for ponies/donkeys compared to horses?
A: The principles are the same, but tools, sedation, and dosages are adjusted to their smaller size and sensitivities.

Q5: Are the costs lower for pony/donkey dental care?
A: Sometimes slightly lower if the work is simpler, but depending on complexity, costs can be comparable to those for horses.