Dentoalveolar Trauma and Tooth Wear in Anti-Poaching Dogs in Kruger National Park: Associations With Signalment and Operational Factors

The prevalence, distribution, signalment- and operation-associated factors of dentoalveolar trauma and tooth wear in anti-poaching dogs deployed in Kruger National Park, South Africa were investigated in 72 dogs between 2021 and 2024. Signalment variables and operational role (tracking vs apprehension) were recorded. Non-parametric statistics evaluated differences between the groups of dogs each year at baseline, and associations were assessed using Spearman's rank correlation with Bonferroni adjustment. Dentoalveolar trauma was identified in 35.4% of dogs. Low mean (+/−SD) fracture counts were found (incisors 0.21 ± 0.44; canines 0.35 ± 0.84; fourth premolar 0.01 ± 0.12; molars 0.04 ± 0.20) with tooth wear being more prevalent, especially incisors (7.69 ± 4.67). Age showed significant moderate positive correlation with molar wear (ρ = 0.433, P < 0.001). Castrated males had more fourth premolar fractures and enamel defects than intact males (both p = 0.0055). Tracking dogs had substantially greater canine (ρ = −0.480) and premolar wear (ρ = −0.402), while apprehension dogs showed patterns consistent with higher risk of strategic tooth fractures. Dentoalveolar trauma and tooth wear were common in this population and were associated with age, sex/neuter status, and operational role. These findings support targeted dental surveillance and preventive strategies in anti-poaching working dogs.