Elder dog teeth chattering

[MarshallH]

1. Boone, age 14, male
2. Neutered
3. Cattle dog Beagle mix
4. 32lbs
5. BEAM = normal and in good spirits though some joint pain in his golden years
6. Low fat digestive GI friendly diet
7. Current on vaccinations, no recent exposure to toxins, takes Ursidiol for liver enzymes
8. Primary problem: happening for about a week now. When he is settling into sleep or coming out of a nap and is lip-smacking, his jaw chatters for 5 seconds or so. Happens a few times and then he’ll wake up.
9. Condition doesn’t seem dependent on different variables like exercise, touch, temperature, emotional upset, etc.
10. No diagnostic work done. Here because we are concerned it may be a sign of pain. Has appt in 2 weeks with his regular vet.
11. Current and previous treatment. N/A
12. Other health concerns: elevated liver enzymes, small tremor in back left leg
13. Tag a doctor: @Dr. Jeff @Dr. Jean Hofve @Dr. Christina

Would appreciate your thoughts on this! Searched and didn’t find a topic on the chattering, so excited to make this post. Thank you all for all you do.

 

[Dr. Jean Hofve]

Hi Marshall! Boone is a real cutie-patootie! I agree, it *could* be a sign of pain, but it may be nothing concerning since his BEAM is otherwise normal. A vet exam to check his teeth, normality of jaw motion, etc. is a good idea. It's interesting that it occurs in that fuzzy almost-asleep state, it may be related to the hypnogogic state, which can cause weird and sometimes jerky muscle spasms. Do you ever get those where your whole body jerks in that twilight state? It may just be that, which is no big deal, but definitely it's good to check for TMJ or dental issues.

 

[GinnyW]

I'm wondering if this might be a kind of "flehmening", a curling of the lip and chattering of the teeth. We see this commonly in horses; I've seen it in several dogs, and it has been observed in wild game and some large prey animals. Could be to enhance odors, smell dinner or threats - not known for sure. Might be an atavistic manifestation which only comes out when he's relaxed.

 

[Dr. Jeff]

Welcome Marshal!

It's great to see you here again.

hen he is settling into sleep or coming out of a nap and is lip-smacking, his jaw chatters for 5 seconds or so. Happens a few times and then he’ll wake up.

I agree, all around with Dr. Jean, Ginny, and the great observation you made with Boone!

You have identified a great homeopathic "modality".

If this symptom persists, becomes more problematic, or if his BEAM drops in any way, plwaase let us know.

In the meantime focus on frequent micro-engagements of his happiest things and loving him up.