Dental Problems in Small Dogs: Causes & Prevention
In miniature and toy breeds, the teeth are anatomically close together—a genetic trait that greatly increases the risk of tartar buildup and inflammation. In addition, baby teeth often persist, which can lead to misalignment. These unique challenges require a well-thought-out dental care strategy that goes far beyond occasional brushing.
In the following sections, you’ll learn which dental problems particularly affect small dogs, how to reliably recognize early symptoms, and which preventive measures have been proven to help. You’ll discover tried-and-true dental care tips for at home, gain an understanding of the financial aspects of dental treatments, and receive specific recommendations for every stage of your dog’s life.⏱️ Reading time: about 26 minutes
Quick Overview: Dental Problems in Small Dogs
| Property | Details |
|---|---|
| Affected Breeds | Chihuahua (up to 85%), Maltese (78%), Yorkshire Terrier (75%), Pomeranian (72%), Affenpinscher (70%), Pug (68%), French Bulldog (65%) |
| Frequency | Small breeds weighing less than 10 kg: 70–80% of dogs over 3 years old are affected; large breeds: 30–50% |
| Curable | Yes, if detected early; tooth loss itself is irreversible, but the resulting damage can be prevented |
| Treatment Costs | Dental cleaning: 300–600 CHF; extraction: 150–300 CHF per tooth; retained baby teeth: 100–200 CHF per tooth; complex surgery: 800–2,000+ CHF |
| Prevention is Possible | Yes: brush their teeth daily, feed them a proper diet, and take them to the veterinarian for a dental checkup every 6–12 months |
| Emergency | Severe bad breath accompanied by bleeding, complete refusal to eat, visible abscesses, and purulent discharge |
What are common dental problems in small dogs?
Definition and Prevalence in Miniature and Toy Breeds
Dental problems in small dogs encompass a wide range of conditions, from simple plaque and tartar to gum inflammation and serious infections of the jawbone. What these conditions have in common is that they usually begin gradually but progress rapidly without treatment. The risk is particularly high for miniature and toy breeds weighing less than 10 kg. Studies show that over 70% of these dogs exhibit the first signs of dental disease as early as three years of age.
The reason for this high number is deeply rooted in the anatomy of small breeds. Their jaws are significantly more compact in relation to their body size, while the number of teeth is the same as in large dogs—namely, 42 permanent teeth. This cramped situation creates ideal conditions for plaque buildup and inflammation. Statistically speaking, a three-year-old Chihuahua is already more likely to suffer from dental problems than a Labrador of the same age.
Many owners don’t notice the first signs until it’s too late because dogs instinctively hide their pain. An animal that is still eating normally is therefore not necessarily free of discomfort. Regular checkups at the veterinarian’s office are therefore crucial—not just when the dog is visibly suffering.
What dental diseases are particularly common in small dogs?
The most common condition is gingivitis, or inflammation of the gums. It occurs when bacteria in dental plaque multiply unchecked and attack the gum tissue. If left untreated, this progresses to periodontitis, a condition in which the bone around the tooth root breaks down. This is the most common cause of tooth loss in small dogs. In a five-year-old Yorkshire Terrier, untreated periodontitis may have already led to the loss of several molars.
In addition, small breeds often suffer from misaligned teeth caused by narrow jaws. Teeth may be twisted or overlapping, which can cause them to rub against each other and lead to chronic irritation in the mouth. Root abscesses—purulent infections at the base of the tooth—are also more common than average in small dogs and are often barely visible from the outside.
Another condition that is particularly problematic in small breeds is persistent deciduous teeth. This means that the deciduous teeth do not fall out even though the permanent tooth is already erupting. This condition causes a series of related problems, which will be discussed in detail in a later section.
Genetics and Breed Predisposition: Why Small Breeds Are Particularly at Risk
The susceptibility of small breeds to dental problems is largely genetic. Through selective breeding for compact heads and short muzzles—a trait known as brachycephaly—the space required for 42 teeth has been reduced to a significantly smaller jaw. Breeds such as the pug and the French bulldog are extreme examples of this, but even breeds that are less obviously affected, such as the Chihuahua and the Pomeranian, suffer from similar anatomical constraints.
However, a genetic predisposition does not mean it’s inevitable. It merely increases the risk, and that is precisely why targeted preventive care is even more important for these breeds than for larger dogs. If you know that your Maltese has a 78% chance of developing dental problems, you can take early action to prevent them. A puppy that gets used to having its teeth brushed from the very beginning has a much better chance of maintaining healthy teeth well into old age.
Hormonal fluctuations, immune status, and overall health also play a role. Dogs with a weakened immune system—due, for example, to stress, chronic illnesses, or a nutrient-poor diet—are more susceptible to bacteria in the mouth. A robust immune system is therefore important not only for overall health but also directly for dental health.
Causes and Risk Factors for Dental Problems in Small Dogs
Dental Plaque and Tartar: The Vicious Cycle
Dental plaque, medically known as plaque, is a soft, sticky film made up of bacteria, saliva, and food debris that forms on the teeth every day. In small dogs, this film adheres particularly stubbornly because narrow spaces between the teeth limit the self-cleaning ability of saliva. If plaque is not regularly removed mechanically—that is, through brushing or chewing—it mineralizes into hard tartar within a few days.
Tartar isn’t just unsightly—it’s also dangerous. It causes chronic irritation of the gums, creates rough surfaces where new bacteria can attach even more easily, and pushes the gums away from the tooth root. This receding of the gums, known as gingival recession, is often observed in small dogs as young as five years old. Once tartar has formed, it cannot be removed by brushing; professional instruments at the veterinarian’s office are required.
The actual vicious cycle arises because tartar attracts more tartar. The rough surface provides ideal attachment points for bacteria, the inflammatory process in the gums intensifies, and the bone begins to recede. In a small dog, which already has limited bone mass in the jaw, this bone loss can quickly lead to structural consequences, including spontaneous jaw fractures in severely affected toy breeds.
Nutrition and Its Role in Dental Diseases
What a dog eats has a direct impact on dental health. Soft wet food sticks to the teeth more easily than dry food, which has a certain mechanical cleaning effect when chewed. Nevertheless, dry food alone is not sufficient for dental care. The widespread myth that kibble keeps teeth clean is only partially true. Small breeds tend to swallow dry food rather than chew it, which further reduces the mechanical cleaning effect.
Foods high in sugar or starch promote bacterial growth in the mouth to a particularly high degree. Bacteria ferment sugar and starch into acids that attack tooth enamel and accelerate the formation of plaque. High-quality food made with natural ingredients and without excessive additives can counteract this process.
In addition, natural supplements can be beneficial. Lignans and omega-3 fatty acids from flaxseed have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects and can help reduce chronic inflammation in the mouth. However, such supplements are not a substitute for dental care or veterinary treatment; they should be viewed solely as a supportive measure. In cases of acute dental problems, a visit to the veterinarian is always necessary.
Persistent Baby Teeth and Their Consequences
Persistent baby teeth occur when a baby tooth does not fall out even though the permanent tooth has already begun to erupt. The permanent tooth then grows into an incorrect position, either next to or behind the baby tooth. This happens much more frequently in small breeds than in large ones because the transition from baby teeth to permanent teeth is more complex, both hormonally and anatomically.
Many owners of small-breed dogs are unaware that retained baby teeth can cause significant long-term damage. Not only do they lead to misaligned teeth, but they also make daily dental care much more difficult and promote tartar buildup. Especially in Chihuahuas, Maltese, and Yorkshire Terriers, owners should check between weeks 24 and 36 to ensure that all baby teeth have fallen out. Genetic jaw abnormalities in small breeds, such as mild underbites or crowded teeth, also require extra attention and should be discussed with a veterinarian.
A typical scenario: A Chihuahua puppy is 20 weeks old; the canines of the permanent dentition are emerging, but the baby teeth are still firmly in place. The owner waits, hoping they will fall out on their own. Four weeks later, both teeth are now side by side; the permanent canine is tilted inward, and tartar is beginning to build up in the narrow gap. At this point, veterinary extraction of the baby tooth is unavoidable.
Poor Oral Hygiene and Gaps in Dental Care
The most common risk factor is also the most preventable: a lack of daily oral care. Studies show that fewer than 10% of all dog owners brush their pets’ teeth regularly—that is, daily or at least three times a week. For small dogs, which are already at an anatomical disadvantage, this shortcoming has particularly serious consequences. New plaque begins to form as early as 24 hours after the last brushing; after 72 hours without brushing, the first mineralization processes begin.
Many owners fail not because of a lack of will, but because of difficulties in putting it into practice. Small dogs are often hard to hold still, are afraid of being touched around the mouth, or react defensively when their mouths are opened. Those who do not begin this training when their dog is still a puppy will later struggle with ingrained habits. Unsuitable tools—such as toothbrushes that are too large or the wrong kind of toothpaste—can also lead owners to give up in frustration.
In addition, many people underestimate how quickly a small dog can develop serious dental problems without preventive care. A Yorkshire Terrier that receives no dental care for a year can already develop clearly visible tartar and the first signs of gingivitis. These are not isolated cases; this is true for the majority of small dogs that grow up without regular preventive care.
Symptoms of Dental Problems in Small Dogs
Early Warning Signs: What Should Pet Owners Be Aware Of?
Early dental problems often manifest themselves subtly. The first and most common sign is bad breath, medically known as halitosis. Mild bad breath after a meal is normal; persistent bad breath, on the other hand, is a clear sign that bacteria are multiplying unchecked in the mouth. Many pet owners get used to it and accept it as a fact of life, but there is almost always a treatable problem behind the odor.
Other early signs include slight redness of the gums, occasional head shaking, or chewing on one side. If a small dog suddenly starts chewing on one side or ignores certain treats it used to love, this may be a sign of localized pain. Increased drooling or licking of the lips for no apparent reason may also indicate discomfort in the mouth.
Owners should also watch for discoloration of the teeth. Yellowish or brownish deposits at the base of the teeth are tartar, which is visible and treatable. Dark spots or gray discoloration on the tooth surfaces may indicate dead tooth tissue or underlying damage and should be examined by a veterinarian immediately.
Severity of Dental Diseases and Urgency
Dental disease in dogs is classified into four stages of severity. Stage 1 describes mild gingivitis with reddish gums and minimal plaque. At this stage, the condition is completely reversible. Stage 2 is characterized by more severe inflammation, the initial formation of pockets between the teeth and gums, and noticeable tartar buildup. Even at this stage, no permanent damage has occurred if action is taken now.
Irreversible damage begins at stage 3. The bone begins to resorb, deep gum pockets fill with bacteria, and affected teeth begin to loosen. A small dog at this stage often shows a loss of appetite or eats more slowly. Stage 4 is the most severe: multiple teeth are affected, the jawbone is structurally weakened, and signs of pain are evident. At this stage, tooth extractions and prolonged treatment are unavoidable.
The urgency increases with the severity level. Levels 1 and 2 require treatment at the next regular veterinary visit, ideally within a few weeks. Level 3 should be evaluated within 1–2 weeks. Level 4 requires treatment as soon as possible.
🚨 When should you take your dog to the vet right away?
Some symptoms require an immediate veterinary examination; you should not wait for the next scheduled appointment. These include severe bad breath combined with visible blood, such as on the food bowl or toys. A complete refusal to eat for more than 24 hours is also a serious warning sign that must be addressed immediately.Go to the vet right away if:
- Visible swelling on the jaw or under the eye (possible root abscess) - Purulent discharge from the mouth or nose - The dog can no longer fully open or close its mouth - Sudden, excessive drooling combined with signs of pain (whimpering, scratching at the mouth) - Visibly broken or chipped teeth with exposed pulp
A root abscess—that is, a purulent inflammation of the tooth root—is particularly insidious because it sometimes manifests as swelling under the eye. Many pet owners don’t immediately suspect a dental problem. In small dogs, an untreated infection in the mouth can spread throughout the body and put a strain on the heart, liver, or kidneys. This makes it especially important to act quickly when these signs appear.
Diagnosing Dental Problems in Small Dogs
Dental Exam at the Veterinarian: Process and Costs
A thorough dental examination begins with the annual preventive checkup. The veterinarian inspects the mouth, assesses gum color, tartar buildup, tooth mobility, and any misalignments. This visual examination takes just a few minutes and is usually included in the consultation fee of 50–100 CHF. However, it provides only an initial overview.
A comprehensive dental diagnosis—known as a dental examination under anesthesia—provides significantly more information. During this procedure, all teeth are probed, gum pockets are measured, and in most modern dental practices, dental X-rays are taken. These X-rays reveal what remains invisible to the naked eye: root abscesses, bone loss, unerupted teeth, and the exact location of retained baby teeth. The cost of this comprehensive diagnostic evaluation in Switzerland typically ranges from 150 to 350 CHF, including preparation for anesthesia but excluding treatment.
Anesthesia is necessary during the examination because no dog will tolerate having its gum pockets measured or individual teeth X-rayed while awake. Owners of small breeds, in particular, sometimes shy away from this step. However, the risks of anesthesia for healthy small dogs under professional conditions are low and are nowhere near as significant as the risks of untreated dental disease.
How are gum pockets diagnosed?
Gum pockets form when the gums recede from the tooth and bacteria penetrate the space between the tooth root and the gums. The veterinarian measures the depth of these pockets using a special periodontal probe. In healthy teeth, the pocket depth is no more than 1–2 mm. Pockets deeper than 3 mm are considered pathological and indicate early-stage periodontitis. At a depth of 5 mm or more, the bone is usually already significantly affected.
This measurement is performed under anesthesia because probing the pockets is uncomfortable for the dog when it is awake and requires precise results. The diagnosis is crucial because it shows which teeth can still be saved and which must be extracted. A tooth with a 7-mm pocket has usually suffered so much bone loss that it is no longer stable and should be removed.
X-ray Diagnostics: What Do X-rays Show, and When Are They Necessary?
Dental X-rays are often essential for small dogs with dental problems. They reveal root abscesses, bone loss, tooth fractures below the gum line, and retained baby tooth roots that are not visible from the outside. Especially in small breeds, which have thin jawbones, X-rays can detect structural problems early on, before they become acute emergencies.
Modern dental practices use digital dental X-rays, which provide precise images in just a few seconds. The cost of X-rays varies depending on the number of images, but is usually between 80 and 150 CHF in addition to the cost of the examination. This investment is worthwhile because it helps identify preventable complications and enables more targeted treatment.
Treatment of Dental Problems in Small Dogs
Professional Dental Cleaning: Procedure and Costs in CHF
Professional teeth cleaning, also known as dental prophylaxis or scaling, is the most important treatment for existing tartar and gingivitis. It is always performed under general anesthesia, as this is the only way to ensure a thorough and stress-free cleaning of all tooth surfaces, including the areas below the gum line. First, the hard tartar is broken up and removed using an ultrasonic scaler. Afterward, all tooth surfaces are polished to smooth them out and slow the re-accumulation of plaque.
In Swiss veterinary clinics, the total cost of this procedure ranges from 300 to 600 CHF. The price varies depending on the clinic, the region, and the extent of the cleaning required. For a three-year-old Chihuahua with moderate tartar buildup and mild gingivitis, a total bill of around 400 CHF is realistic. This typically includes the anesthesia fee, cleaning, polishing, and the final checkup. X-rays or extractions are billed separately.
After treatment, dental cleaning should not be viewed as a one-time event. Most veterinarians recommend professional cleaning every 12 months for small breeds, and even every 6 months for dogs that develop tartar particularly quickly. If you brush your dog’s teeth daily, you may be able to extend this interval.
Tooth Extraction and Surgical Procedures
If a tooth can no longer be saved due to periodontitis, an abscess, or trauma, extraction is the safest solution. Many pet owners fear that their dog will no longer be able to eat normally without teeth. This concern is understandable, but in practice, most dogs show a significantly better quality of life after painful teeth are removed. They eat with appetite again, play more actively, and seem more energetic overall.
In Switzerland, the cost per extracted tooth ranges from 150 to 300 CHF, depending on the complexity of the extraction. Extractions of multiple teeth are typically performed in a single session under anesthesia, which increases the total bill but results in fewer stressful episodes for the dog. In cases of severe periodontitis involving bone loss, the extraction may require surgical techniques, such as removing bone tissue to access deeply seated roots. This increases the complexity and cost accordingly.
After a tooth extraction, dogs are usually given antibiotics and pain medication for several days. A soft diet for 1–2 weeks gives the extraction sites time to heal. Most small dogs recover very quickly from such procedures; they are often back to their normal activities as early as the next day.
Treatment of Persistent Baby Teeth
Persistent baby teeth are extracted in a targeted manner, as early as possible, once it is clear that the baby tooth will not fall out on its own. The optimal time is usually between the 24th and 32nd week of life, when the permanent tooth is erupting but the baby tooth is still firmly in place. The extraction is performed under brief anesthesia and costs between 100 and 200 CHF per tooth in Switzerland.
The procedure itself is straightforward, but it is crucial for long-term dental health. If it is performed too late, the permanent tooth will have already developed a misalignment that is difficult to correct later on. Veterinarians therefore recommend a checkup at 20–24 weeks of age for small breeds to detect persistent baby teeth early on.
What medications are used to treat dental diseases?
Various medications are used to treat acute inflammation and following surgical procedures. Antibiotics such as amoxicillin or clindamycin treat bacterial infections and are typically prescribed for 7–14 days. Pain relievers, usually nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as carprofen or meloxicam, relieve pain and reduce inflammation. These medications are prescription-only and must be prescribed by a veterinarian.
Important: Medications treat the acute symptoms, not the underlying cause. They are always only a supplementary measure to the actual dental treatment. Gingivitis is not cured by antibiotics, but by the removal of tartar and consistent dental care. The use of medications should therefore always be coordinated with the veterinarian.
Costs and Insurance for Dental Problems
Overview: How Much Do Dental Treatments Cost in Switzerland?
Dental treatments for small dogs vary widely in cost, depending on the type and scope of the treatment. An annual dental checkup as part of a routine examination costs 50–100 CHF. A professional dental cleaning under anesthesia costs 300–600 CHF, depending on the degree of tartar buildup and the veterinary practice. Extracting individual teeth costs 150–300 CHF per tooth.
More complex procedures—such as multiple extractions, root abscesses, or surgical treatment of jaw abnormalities—can cost anywhere from 800 to over 2,000 CHF. A five-year-old Maltese with Grade 4 periodontitis that loses seven teeth can quickly rack up a bill of 1,800 CHF. These figures show how important early prevention is, not only for the dog’s health but also financially.
Is pet health insurance worth it for dental treatment?
Pet health insurance plans in Switzerland offer varying levels of coverage for dental treatment. Some plans completely exclude dental procedures, while others only cover accidental damage to teeth. Premium plans, however, often provide coverage for dental cleanings and extractions up to an annual maximum, usually between 500 and 1,500 CHF.
For owners of small dog breeds, this type of insurance can be a wise choice. Statistically speaking, over 70% of small dogs require at least one professional dental procedure during their lifetime. If you pay an annual insurance premium of 300–500 CHF, a single major dental procedure often makes the policy worthwhile. It’s important to carefully review the insurance terms and conditions and pay attention to waiting periods, deductibles, and coverage limits.
How can you save money in the long run?
The most effective way to save money is prevention. Brushing your dog’s teeth daily may take you about 5 minutes and cost 60–80 CHF a year for toothbrushes and toothpaste. In return, this could help you avoid treatment costs totaling several thousand francs over your dog’s lifetime. A regular annual dental checkup (50–100 CHF) helps detect problems early, when they can still be treated at a lower cost.
The choice of food also plays a role. High-quality food made with natural ingredients and without excessive sugar or starch reduces the risk of plaque buildup. Chew toys and special dental care products (20–40 CHF per month) complement mechanical cleaning. All in all, you might spend 200–300 CHF per year on consistent dental care—significantly less than a single dental cleaning under anesthesia.
Prevention and Early Detection of Dental Problems
How often should the veterinarian check my pet's teeth?
For small dogs weighing less than 10 kg, veterinarians recommend a dental checkup at least once a year, ideally every 6–12 months. For breeds at particularly high risk (Chihuahuas, Maltese, Yorkshire Terriers), these checkup intervals should be shortened to every 6 months, especially starting at age three. Dogs that have already had dental problems should be examined more frequently to detect recurrences early on.
The exam is quick and painless. The veterinarian checks the color of the gums, tartar buildup, loose teeth, and misalignments. These few minutes can be crucial for detecting Grade 1 problems before they escalate into Grade 3 conditions. Many veterinary practices offer dental exams as part of annual vaccination appointments, which makes scheduling easier.
Daily Dental Care at Home: What Really Works?
The most important step is daily brushing. Use a soft toothbrush designed specifically for small dogs and an enzymatic toothpaste without fluoride. Start with short sessions of 30 seconds and slowly increase the time to 2 minutes. Focus on the outer surfaces of the teeth, especially the molars, where tartar builds up the fastest.
Get your puppy used to having his teeth brushed starting at 8 weeks of age. Start in a playful way—let him sniff the toothbrush and reward him for staying calm. A dog that is familiar with toothbrushing from the start will accept it as a natural part of its routine. With older dogs that aren’t used to having their teeth brushed, you’ll need patience. Take it step by step, reward every improvement, and don’t give up.
In addition to brushing, special chew toys and dental sticks can help. Look for products with the VOHC (Veterinary Oral Health Council) seal, which have been scientifically tested for effectiveness. Rawhide bones or hard rubber toys with grooves can mechanically remove plaque. Avoid bones or antler pieces that are too hard, as they can cause tooth fractures.
What kind of diet promotes dental health?
A diet that promotes dental health is based on high-quality food made with natural ingredients and without excessive amounts of sugar or starch. Dry food has a mild mechanical cleaning effect, but should not be considered the sole measure of dental care. Special dental care dry food with larger kibble and a fibrous texture can reduce plaque buildup.
A raw food diet (BARF) can also have positive effects, as raw meat and cartilage require more intensive chewing. However, this feeding method carries other risks (bacteria, nutritional imbalances) and should only be pursued after consulting a veterinarian. Wet food alone provides little mechanical cleaning and promotes plaque buildup, but it can be combined with targeted dental care measures.
Natural dietary supplements, such as flaxseed toppings containing lignans and omega-3 fatty acids, can have anti-inflammatory effects and help alleviate chronic conditions in the mouth. However, they should be considered solely as a supplement and never as a substitute for dental care or veterinary treatment. In the case of acute dental problems, the veterinarian should always be your first point of contact.
Which dog breeds are particularly affected?
Chihuahua: Up to 85% affected
Chihuahuas top the list of breeds prone to dental problems. Their extremely compact jaw structure leaves hardly any room for 42 permanent teeth, leading to severe crowding. Retained baby teeth are particularly common in this breed; often, several baby teeth remain in place, causing complex malocclusions. Tartar begins to form in Chihuahuas as early as two years of age if consistent dental care is not provided.
Chihuahua owners should be especially vigilant and check their dog’s teeth regularly, starting no later than the 20th week of life. A professional dental cleaning every 6–12 months is often unavoidable for this breed, even with good at-home care. The genetic predisposition is so strong that even Chihuahuas that are well cared for often develop dental problems.
Maltese, Yorkshire Terriers, and Pomeranians: 70–78% affected
Maltese, Yorkshire Terriers, and Pomeranians also have extremely high rates of dental disease. In these breeds, the cause lies less in extreme brachycephaly than in the general small size of the jaw and a genetic predisposition to rapid tartar buildup. Gum inflammation often develops in these breeds as early as their second year of life.
A typical example: A three-year-old Maltese without regular dental care is highly likely to already have Grade 2 or Grade 3 dental disease. Daily teeth brushing is not optional for these breeds—it is essential. Owners should also watch for early signs, such as bad breath or changes in chewing behavior, and take them seriously.
Pugs and French Bulldogs: Brachycephaly as a Risk Factor
Brachycephalic breeds such as pugs and French bulldogs have particular problems due to their extremely short muzzles. Not only are their jaws smaller, but they are also anatomically deformed, leading to tooth rotation, overbite, and crowding. In addition, these breeds often have breathing problems, which encourages mouth breathing and promotes the drying out of the mucous membranes—an ideal breeding ground for bacteria.
The incidence of dental problems is about 68% in pugs and 65% in French bulldogs. Both breeds require intensive dental care and regular veterinary checkups. Many owners of these breeds underestimate the dental problem because they are primarily concerned about respiratory issues. In fact, both areas should be given equal attention.
Common Mistakes Dog Owners Make When Dealing with Dental Problems
Mistake 1: Accepting bad breath as normal
Many owners of small dogs get used to their pet’s bad breath and consider it inevitable. In fact, persistent bad breath is almost always a sign of dental disease. A healthy dog does not have strong bad breath. Those who ignore the odor overlook an early warning sign and allow the disease to progress unnoticed.
The result: A dog whose bad breath has not been taken seriously for years often develops severe periodontitis with irreversible bone loss. Tooth extractions become unavoidable—something that could have been prevented if the owner had taken action at the first sign of bad breath. What to do: If bad breath persists, make an appointment with a veterinarian immediately.
Mistake 2: Delayed or Neglected Dental Care
The most common mistake is a complete lack of dental care. Many owners don’t realize that dogs need dental care, or they keep putting it off. Others don’t start dental care until problems are already visible—by which time it’s too late to completely prevent damage. A dog that doesn’t have its teeth brushed for the first time until it’s four years old usually already has tartar and gingivitis by that point.
The correct approach is: Start dental care as early as the 8th week of life. Get your puppy used to having its teeth brushed in a playful way before it develops resistance. It’s worth starting even with older dogs, even if it’s more difficult. Consistent dental care starting now is always better than none at all.
Mistake 3: Using the Wrong Products or Inappropriate Methods
Many pet owners use products that are unsuitable for dental care. These include human toothpaste (which is toxic to dogs due to fluoride), toothbrushes that are too large, chew bones that are too hard, or ineffective products with no scientific basis. Even well-intentioned home remedies such as apple cider vinegar or baking soda can do more harm than good and should not be used.
A typical example: A pet owner buys a hard beef marrow bone because they’ve heard that chewing it cleans the teeth. The small dog breaks a molar on it, resulting in a painful and expensive extraction. The right thing to do: Use only dental care products specifically designed for dogs, look for the VOHC seal, and consult your veterinarian.
Mistake 4: Ignoring Persistent Baby Teeth
Another common mistake is ignoring retained baby teeth in the hope that they will fall out on their own. In fact, retained baby teeth usually do not fall out on their own and must be extracted. Every week that passes worsens the misalignment of the permanent tooth and increases the risk of tartar buildup and inflammation.
The correct advice is: Starting at 20 weeks of age, check regularly to see if all baby teeth have fallen out. As soon as a permanent tooth begins to erupt and the baby tooth is still firmly in place, make an appointment with your veterinarian. Early extraction is a simple procedure and prevents long-term problems. Don’t wait—take proactive action.
Mistake 5: Underestimating dental problems and waiting too long to take action
Many pet owners underestimate the health consequences of dental problems. They notice tartar or reddened gums but don’t take it seriously because the dog doesn’t seem to be in pain. In fact, dogs instinctively hide their pain, and chronic dental diseases take a toll on the entire body. Bacteria from the mouth enter the bloodstream and travel to the heart, liver, and kidneys, where they can cause serious damage.
What to Do: Take any signs of dental problems seriously, even if your dog is still eating and playing. If you’re unsure, it’s better to make a vet appointment one too many times than one too few. Early detection not only saves teeth but also protects your dog’s overall health.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which small dog breeds are most prone to dental problems?
Chihuahuas top the list, with up to 85% of these dogs affected, followed by Maltese (78%), Yorkshire Terriers (75%), and Pomeranians (72%). Brachycephalic breeds such as pugs (68%) and French Bulldogs (65%) are also heavily affected. The reason lies in the extremely compact jaw structure of these breeds; 42 permanent teeth must fit into a very small space, which greatly promotes tartar buildup, misalignment, and inflammation. Daily dental care is particularly important for these breeds.
How can I prevent tartar buildup in small dogs?
The most effective prevention is daily brushing with a soft dog toothbrush and enzymatic toothpaste without fluoride. Ideally, start when your puppy is as young as 8 weeks old. Special chew toys with the VOHC seal and high-quality food without excessive sugar or starch also help. Have your dog’s teeth checked by a veterinarian every 6–12 months. For small breeds at high risk, a professional dental cleaning every 12 months may be necessary even with good oral care.
What symptoms indicate dental disease in dogs?
Early warning signs include persistent bad breath, slightly reddened gums, chewing on one side only, or suddenly avoiding hard treats. Advanced symptoms include visible tartar (yellowish to brownish deposits), bleeding gums, increased drooling, or head shaking. Do not ignore these signs; dogs instinctively hide their pain. If your dog has severe bad breath accompanied by bleeding, swelling of the jaw, pus-like discharge, or a complete refusal to eat, you should see a veterinarian immediately.
How often should you brush a small dog's teeth?
Ideally, you should brush your dog’s teeth daily, but at least three times a week. New plaque begins to form just 24 hours after the last brushing, and after 72 hours, it begins to mineralize into tartar. For small breeds with a genetic predisposition, this daily routine is especially important. In addition, a professional dental cleaning by a veterinarian should be performed every 6–12 months, depending on the individual’s risk and state of oral health. Consistent at-home care can extend this interval.
When should I take my dog to the vet for dental problems?
If your pet has persistent bad breath, visible tartar, or reddened gums, please schedule an appointment as soon as possible. The following are considered emergencies: severe bad breath combined with bleeding, swelling of the jaw or under the eye, pus-like discharge, a complete refusal to eat for more than 24 hours, or visibly broken teeth with exposed pulp. In addition, starting at 20 weeks of age, you should check for any persistent baby teeth; these must be extracted promptly to prevent misalignment.
Can dental problems in small dogs be treated?
Yes, if detected early. Dental plaque and mild gingivitis (Grades 1–2) are completely reversible through professional teeth cleaning and consistent oral hygiene. Starting at stage 3, irreversible bone damage occurs that cannot be reversed; affected teeth often have to be extracted. Lost teeth do not grow back, but dogs can live well with their remaining teeth or even without any teeth at all, and they usually experience a significantly better quality of life after the removal of painful teeth. The key point is: The sooner you take action, the better the prognosis.
How much does dental treatment cost in Switzerland?
An annual dental checkup costs 50–100 CHF, and a professional teeth cleaning under anesthesia costs 300–600 CHF. The extraction of individual teeth costs 150–300 CHF per tooth, and the removal of retained baby teeth costs 100–200 CHF per tooth. In severe cases involving multiple extractions or root abscesses, total costs can range from 800 to 2,000+ CHF. Dental X-rays cost an additional 80–150 CHF. These figures clearly show that preventive dental care, costing about 200–300 CHF per year, is significantly more cost-effective in the long run than treatment costs.
