Dental Care Tips for Small Breeds: Chihuahuas, Pomeranians, and More

Tiny teeth, big problems. 

It might sound like a simple catchphrase, but for small breeds like Chihuahuas, Pomeranians, and Yorkshire Terriers, it’s a serious reality. Their diminutive jaws and tightly packed teeth make them highly susceptible to dental disease, often developing issues far earlier than larger breeds. Combine that with a temperament that can make brushing and dental care challenging, and the risks for oral health problems are higher without proactive care.

By age three, up to 80–90% of dogs show some degree of periodontal disease, with small breeds being particularly prone, and the risk of disease increases with age.

It's why understanding the unique dental needs of small-breed dogs—and taking action early—is essential for their long-term health. With proper attention, regular dental cleanings, and careful selection of chews and diets, pet parents can help their furry companions maintain a healthy mouth and prevent painful complications.

Table of Contents

1. Introduction

2. Teething and Tooth Development

3. Common Dental Challenges

• Plaque and Tartar Buildup

• Gingivitis and Early Gum Disease

• Periodontal Disease

• Overcrowded Teeth and Malocclusions

• Fractured Teeth from Hard Chews

4. Preventive Dental Care

• Daily At-Home Cleaning

• Professional Veterinary Care

• Choosing Safe Dental Chews and Diets

• Handling Fussy or Anxious Dogs

5. Recognizing Dental Emergencies

6. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

7. Final Thoughts

Key Takeaways

• Small breeds are particularly prone to dental disease due to their small, tightly packed teeth.

• Up to 80–90% of dogs over age three show signs of periodontal disease, with risks increasing as they age.

• Retained baby teeth, overcrowding, and hard chews can lead to tooth fractures, plaque buildup, and gum disease.

• Daily at-home brushing, professional cleanings, and safe dental chews are essential for maintaining oral health.

• Early intervention and attentive care prevent severe dental complications and support overall health.

Teething and Tooth Development

Puppies are born without teeth. From five to six weeks, temporary “milk” teeth begin to emerge, with a full set of 28 deciduous teeth in place shortly after. At around four to five months, these puppies start to shed their baby teeth as adult canine teeth begin to grow in.

The order in which puppy teeth are lost is fairly predictable:

1. The smaller front teeth fall out first.

2. Premolars follow.

3. Molars come next.

4. Then, the large canine teeth erupt.

Many small-breed puppies lose their milk teeth while playing or eating, often swallowing them without notice. A small amount of blood may be seen occasionally, but it usually goes unnoticed. However, retained deciduous teeth—when a puppy tooth fails to fall out—can create significant dental challenges later. Crowded teeth, malocclusions, and accelerated plaque buildup are all more likely when baby teeth remain alongside adult teeth, making early monitoring essential.

Common Dental Challenges in Small Breeds

Small dogs face dental problems far more frequently than their larger counterparts, due to anatomy, diet, and sometimes behavioral tendencies. Some of the most common issues include:

Plaque and Tartar Buildup

Plaque is a thin layer of bacteria, food, and saliva that sticks to a dog’s teeth. If it isn’t removed, it hardens into tartar—a brownish substance along the gum line. In tiny mouths, tightly packed teeth create crevices where plaque can accumulate, making small-breed dogs more prone to gum irritation, tartar buildup, and bad breath.

Gingivitis and Early Gum Disease

Gingivitis occurs when plaque spreads below the gum line, causing inflammation. Early stages are reversible, but left untreated, gingivitis can lead to more serious conditions, including periodontal disease. Signs to watch for include red or swollen gums, drooling, bad breath, and reluctance to chew.

Periodontal Disease

Periodontal disease is an infection of the tissues surrounding the teeth—including gums, ligaments, and bone. Toy breed dogs are particularly vulnerable due to shallow tooth roots, thin jawbones, and crowded teeth. Symptoms often include loose or missing teeth, pawing at the mouth, difficulty chewing, drooling, and food aversion.

Advanced periodontal disease can have serious consequences. If untreated, infection can spread to the jawbone and even enter the bloodstream, affecting organs such as the heart, liver, and kidneys. Early detection and professional intervention are critical to prevent severe dental disease from taking hold.

Overcrowded Teeth and Malocclusions

Small mouths must fit a full set of 42 adult teeth, which often results in overcrowding. Retained baby teeth and naturally small jaws can worsen this problem. Overcrowding can damage enamel, trap food, increase tartar buildup, and place uneven pressure on the jaw, potentially causing pain and even TMJ disorders. Some small dogs may require early dental extractions to prevent long-term complications.

Fractured Teeth from Hard Chews

Toy breeds are prone to broken teeth, especially when chewing items that are too hard for their delicate jaws. Exposed pulp can lead to severe pain, abscesses, and eventual tooth loss. High-risk items include antlers, hooves, hard plastic toys, and ice cubes. Always choose soft, safe alternatives suitable for small mouths.

Preventive Dental Care for Small Breeds

The best way to protect your pet’s oral health is through proactive, consistent care. Here’s how:

Daily At-Home Cleaning

Daily brushing remains the most effective method for reducing plaque and tartar buildup. For small dogs:

• Use a soft-bristled toothbrush designed for toy breeds.

• Apply pet-safe enzymatic toothpaste—never human toothpaste.

• Consider dental wipes or water additives for extra plaque control.

Even a few minutes a day can make a significant difference in your dog’s oral health and help prevent advanced periodontal disease.

Professional Veterinary Care

Regular dental exams and professional cleanings are crucial, especially for tiny teeth. Veterinarians can perform:

• Comprehensive oral assessments

• Full-mouth X-rays to detect hidden disease

• Scaling and polishing to remove plaque and tartar below the gum line

Routine dental cleanings not only maintain a healthy mouth but also prevent severe dental disease that could compromise your dog’s overall health.

Choosing Safe Dental Chews and Diets

Dental chews and specialized diets play a supportive role in maintaining oral health. Look for:

• Diets formulated for small-breed dogs to promote oral health

• Soft, effective chew toys to help naturally remove plaque

Chew-A-Bulls dog dental treats, available from Gotta Go Grass, are an excellent option for toy breeds—they’re designed to clean teeth gently while satisfying the dog’s natural chewing instinct.

Handling Fussy or Anxious Dogs

Many small dogs resist teeth brushing due to nervousness or fussiness. To make the process easier:

• Start slowly, letting your dog get used to the brush and paste.

• Use treats and positive reinforcement.

• Maintain a calm, gentle approach to avoid creating stress associations with brushing.

Recognizing Dental Emergencies

Some dental issues require immediate veterinary attention. Contact your vet if you notice:

• Sudden difficulty eating or chewing

• Excessive drooling or pawing at the mouth

• Bleeding from the gums or a fractured tooth

• Discolored teeth or facial swelling

Severe dental disease can spread to the jawbone and bloodstream, potentially becoming life-threatening. Early recognition and intervention can prevent unnecessary pain and costly procedures.

Final Thoughts

Dental care for small dogs is more than a cosmetic concern—it supports their overall health. By combining daily at-home brushing, regular veterinary cleanings, and safe, effective dental chews, you can protect your pet from advanced periodontal disease, tooth loss, and other severe complications.

Start early, stay consistent, and make dental care a stress-free part of your dog’s routine. With the right care, your small breed can enjoy a healthy mouth, fresh breath, and a happier, more comfortable life.