Small dogs often live long, happy lives. But one area where they struggle far more than large dogs is dental health. At Renfrew Animal Hospital, dental disease is one of the most common issues we see in small breeds, and it often starts much earlier than most pet parents expect.
Chihuahuas, Yorkies, Shih Tzus, Pomeranians, Maltese, and similar breeds are not just slightly more prone to dental issues. Their size actually puts them at a higher risk for faster and more severe dental disease. Understanding why can make a big difference in your dog’s comfort and long term health.
Why Small Dog Size Affects Dental Health
Small dogs have the same number of teeth as large dogs, roughly 42, but they have much smaller mouths. This means their teeth are crowded tightly together, leaving very little space between them.
Those tight spaces trap food particles and bacteria more easily. Plaque builds up faster, hardens into tartar sooner, and irritates the gums earlier in life. Once gum inflammation starts, it progresses quickly because there is less bone and tissue supporting each tooth.
Many small dogs also have shallower tooth roots and thinner jawbones. As a result, even mild periodontal disease can lead to loose teeth, pain, and infection sooner than it would in a larger dog.
Common Dental Problems Seen In Small Dogs
Dental disease in small dogs shows up in predictable patterns, and they are often more serious than owners realize.
Periodontal Disease
This is the most common dental condition in small dogs. It begins with plaque and gingivitis but can quietly advance to bone loss and tooth loss. Many small dogs lose teeth not because they are old, but because periodontal disease has gone untreated for years.
Retained Baby Teeth
Small breeds are more likely to keep their puppy teeth after adult teeth come in. When this happens, teeth become misaligned and even more crowded. This creates ideal conditions for bacteria to thrive and makes brushing far less effective.
Tooth Fractures
Small dogs have delicate teeth. Chewing on hard bones, antlers, or very hard dental chews can cause cracks or fractures. A fractured tooth is painful and often requires extraction or advanced dental treatment.
Tooth Root Abscesses
Infections below the gumline are common in small dogs and can be easy to miss. Swelling near the eye, facial pain, nasal discharge, or sudden behavior changes can all be signs of a dental abscess rather than a surface level issue.
Why Dental Disease Is More Than A Mouth Problem
Dental disease does not stay confined to the mouth. Bacteria from infected gums can enter the bloodstream and affect vital organs such as the heart, liver, and kidneys.
Because small dogs tend to live longer, untreated dental disease exposes their bodies to chronic inflammation for many years. This can contribute to systemic illness later in life.
Chronic dental pain also impacts quality of life. Many small dogs continue eating even when their mouths hurt, so pain often goes unnoticed. Instead, owners may see subtle changes like reduced playfulness, irritability, or reluctance to chew toys.
Why Dental Problems Start Earlier In Small Breeds
One of the biggest misconceptions is that dental disease is a senior dog issue. In reality, small dogs can begin developing plaque and gum disease as early as one year of age.
Their crowded teeth allow plaque to accumulate faster, which means prevention must start early. Waiting until a dog is older often means significant damage has already occurred beneath the gumline.
Early dental exams allow veterinarians to catch problems before they turn painful or expensive. Professional cleanings under anesthesia remove tartar that brushing alone cannot reach.
What Small Dog Owners Can Do Differently
Dental care for small dogs needs to be proactive, not reactive.
Daily or near daily tooth brushing is one of the most effective tools. Using a dog specific toothbrush and toothpaste helps remove plaque before it hardens.
Choosing the right chews and toys matters. Avoid very hard items that can crack teeth. Dental chews approved by veterinary dental organizations are safer options.
Regular dental exams are essential. Small dogs often benefit from professional cleanings earlier and more frequently than larger breeds.
Pay attention to subtle signs. Bad breath, red gums, drooling, pawing at the mouth, or changes in chewing habits should never be ignored.
How Renfrew Animal Hospital Supports Small Dog Dental Health
At Renfrew Animal Hospital, dental care is tailored to your dog’s size, breed, and individual risk factors. We focus on early detection, thorough dental assessments, and clear guidance for at home care.
Our goal is not just clean teeth, but long term comfort, fewer extractions, and better overall health for your dog.
Small dogs may be little, but their dental needs are not. Addressing dental health early can add years of comfort and quality to their lives.