23 Oct Why Small Dog Breeds Are More Prone to Dental Problems
If you share your home with a small breed dog like a Chihuahua, Yorkie, or Dachshund, you’ve likely noticed that their adorable little faces come with a big personality. But beneath those tiny jaws lies something less endearing—an increased risk for dental problems. At Animal Dental Specialists, we often see small-breed dogs with advanced dental disease long before their larger counterparts show signs. Understanding why a small dog is more vulnerable to dental problems helps owners take the right steps early to keep their pets’ mouths healthy for years to come.
Small Mouth, Big Problem
The primary reason a small dog is prone to dental problems is simple: they have too many teeth for their small mouths. Most dogs, regardless of size, have the same number of teeth—42 adult teeth in total. For a large Labrador Retriever, that’s plenty of space. But when those same 42 teeth have to fit inside a Chihuahua’s tiny mouth, overcrowding quickly becomes a problem.
Crowded teeth make it much easier for plaque and tartar to accumulate in tight spaces that even the best toothbrush can’t reach. Over time, this buildup leads to inflammation of the gums (gingivitis) and eventually periodontal disease—the most common dental problem in small breeds. Once periodontal disease sets in, bacteria can destroy the supporting structures of the teeth, leading to pain, infection, and tooth loss.
Bone Density and Jaw Structure
Another factor working against small dogs is their delicate jawbone. Small breeds naturally have thinner, less dense bones than larger breeds. When bacteria from dental disease begin to invade the jawbone, the result can be severe bone loss. In advanced cases, this can cause jaw fractures, particularly in breeds like Chihuahuas and Toy Poodles.
A condition called oronasal fistula is also more common in small dogs with untreated dental disease. This occurs when infection around the upper canine tooth eats through the thin bone between the mouth and nasal cavity, creating an opening that allows food and fluids to pass from the mouth into the nose. These cases require specialized surgical repair to correct and are entirely preventable with proper dental care.
Tooth Retention and Malocclusion
Puppies of all breeds have baby teeth (also called deciduous teeth) that fall out as their adult teeth grow in. In small dogs, these baby teeth often fail to shed on time, leaving both sets of teeth competing for space. This is known as retained deciduous teeth.
Retained teeth cause crowding, abnormal bite alignment (malocclusion), and faster plaque buildup. They also make chewing uncomfortable, which means your dog may start eating differently or avoiding toys that would otherwise help clean their teeth naturally. Veterinary dentists typically recommend removing retained baby teeth as soon as possible—often during spay or neuter surgery—to prevent these long-term issues.
The Role of Genetics and Saliva
Certain small breeds are genetically predisposed to dental disease. Yorkshire Terriers, Maltese, and Pomeranians, for instance, have been shown to produce different types of saliva with less antibacterial activity. Their saliva tends to dry out faster and is less effective at flushing away bacteria, which accelerates tartar formation and gum inflammation.
Genetics can also influence how a dog’s immune system reacts to plaque bacteria. Some dogs experience an exaggerated inflammatory response, which can cause the gum tissue to recede more rapidly, even with a moderate amount of tartar.
Early Signs of Small Dog Dental Problems Owners Should Watch For
Because small dog dental disease can progress silently, it’s important to look for early warning signs long before your pet stops eating or starts pawing at their face. Common signs include:
- Bad breath (halitosis)
- Yellow or brown discoloration on the teeth
- Red, swollen, or bleeding gums
- Dropping food or chewing on one side of the mouth
- Excessive drooling
- Loose or missing teeth
- Facial swelling or nasal discharge
If you notice any of these symptoms, it’s time to schedule a professional dental exam. The earlier dental problems are addressed, the easier and less expensive they are to treat.
Preventive Dental Care for Small Breed Dogs
The good news is that small dogs can absolutely maintain healthy mouths with the right care plan. At Animal Dental Specialists, we focus on prevention and education so pet owners can keep their dogs’ smiles healthy for life.
- Regular Professional Cleanings
Small breeds often need professional dental cleanings more frequently than large breeds—typically once a year, sometimes every six months depending on the dog’s oral health. A complete cleaning (also known as a COHAT, or Comprehensive Oral Health Assessment and Treatment) includes full-mouth dental X-rays to identify hidden problems beneath the gumline. An oral exam should be done at every visit to your veterinarian.
- Daily Toothbrushing
Nothing replaces daily toothbrushing for preventing plaque buildup. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and pet-safe toothpaste. Start slowly, rewarding your dog for even short brushing sessions, and gradually build up to brushing all teeth.
- Dental Diets and Chews
Specially formulated dental diets and Veterinary Oral Health Council (VOHC)-approved chews (Accepted Products | Veterinary Oral Health Council) can help reduce plaque and tartar between cleanings. Avoid overly hard treats like bones or antlers, which can cause tooth fractures.
- Monitor Baby Teeth
For puppies, make sure their baby teeth fall out on schedule as adult teeth erupt. If you still see baby teeth by six months of age, your veterinarian should evaluate whether they need to be extracted.
- Routine Home Checks
Lift your dog’s lips regularly to inspect their teeth and gums. Early intervention is key—if you notice redness, bad breath, or buildup, schedule a dental evaluation right away.
The Role of Veterinary Dentistry
While your primary veterinarian is an essential partner in your dog’s oral health, some cases require advanced care. Veterinary dentists like Dr. Gaddis and Dr. LaRocca at Animal Dental Specialists have specialized training in complex dental and oral surgical procedures. From root canal therapy and periodontal surgery to jaw fracture repair, we provide expert care designed to preserve function and comfort.
For small dogs, especially, early referral to a dental specialist can prevent painful complications and unnecessary tooth loss. Our team uses advanced imaging and anesthesia monitoring to ensure every procedure is performed safely and effectively.
Keeping Small Dogs Smiling
Small dog breeds may be predisposed to dental disease, but with proactive care, you can keep your pet’s teeth and gums healthy well into their senior years. Regular cleanings, at-home care, and early intervention make all the difference.
If your small breed dog has signs of dental problems—or if it’s simply time for a checkup—call Animal Dental Specialists. We’re here to help them stay comfortable, healthy, and happy with a bright smile that matches their big personality.
Images used under creative commons license – commercial use (10/23/2025) Photo by Jairo Alzate on Unsplash