Just like humans, dogs can experience dental disease. This condition happens when plaque and tartar buildup go unchecked, eventually leading to tooth decay, numbness, and trouble eating. While any dog can develop dental disease, some breeds are more likely to experience this condition than others. By understanding what breeds are more likely to suffer health complications, you can take preventative steps that promote your dog’s health. Here’s what to know.
What Is Dental Disease?
Dental disease affects more than 80 percent of dogs older than three years. This condition impacts the tissues and bones around your dog’s teeth. If left untreated, it can lead to tooth loss and other serious health problems. As noted, dental disease (also called periodontal disease) is caused by the buildup of plaque and tartar on your dog’s teeth.
If plaque and tartar are not removed, they can damage the gums, bones, and connective tissue that support the teeth. Periodontal disease is classified into four stages:
- Gingivitis is the mildest form of the disease and can be reversed with proper oral care.
- Early periodontitis, moderate periodontitis, and severe periodontitis are progressive conditions that damage the supporting structures of the teeth and can lead to tooth loss.
Treatment for canine periodontal disease depends on the ailment’s stage. More advanced stages of periodontal disease require more aggressive treatment, including deep cleanings, antibiotics, and surgery. Preventative measures, such as regular brushing and professional cleanings, can help to slow the progression of the disease and protect your dog’s oral health.
Facial Structure Elevates Risk of Dental Disease
While dental disease can affect any dog, some breeds are more prone to it than others.
Smaller dogs are more susceptible to dental diseases, as bits of food and bacteria can get stuck between their tiny teeth, making it harder to clean with dental bones and chews. In addition, brachycephalic dogs like Pugs, Boxers, and French Bulldogs have a higher risk because of their skull shape.
In addition, breeds with a natural underbite also are prone to dental disease as the overlap of their jaws can cause them to chew differently, getting food and plaque stuck more easily.
10 Dog Breeds Prone to Dental Disease
Some dog breeds with an elevated risk of dental disease include:
1. Cavalier King Charles Spaniels
In general, spaniel dogs have a higher risk of developing dental disease. One of those dogs is the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, a small dog with even smaller teeth.
2. Shih Tzu
These diminutive companion dogs are moderately brachycephalic, meaning they have short snouts and flat faces. They are also small dogs whose teeth are difficult to clean and maintain, AND they often have an underbite.
3. Toy Poodles
Toy Poodles, like all dogs, should have their teeth brushed regularly with pet-safe toothpaste. In addition, regular professional dental cleanings are essential for keeping periodontal disease at bay.
4. Greyhounds
This noble breed is renowned for its grace, speed, and loyalty. A member of the hound group, the Greyhound is distinguished by its slim build, long legs, and large head. They are bred for racing and have been used in hunting since ancient times.
Greyhounds have a dolichocephalic skull shape, giving them a long, narrow snout. This feature puts the breed at a higher risk of dental disease, so provide tons of dental sticks!
5. Bichon Frise
Bichon Frises are a small breed of dog known for their fluffy white coats and friendly dispositions. Unfortunately, they are also prone to dental problems. Bichon Frises have a higher-than-average incidence of periodontal disease, which can lead to tooth loss and other health problems. In addition, their small jaws make them more likely to develop tartar and plaque buildup.
6. Pugs
Their mouths are small, and their teeth are crowded, which can lead to plaque build-up and tooth decay. What’s more, Pugs often have soft and spongy palates, which can make it difficult for them to keep their mouths clean. As a result, pugs are at increased risk for gum disease, bad breath, and other dental problems.
7. Collies
Collies seem to be especially prone to these issues. This is likely because Collies have somewhat smaller jaws in proportion to their overall body size. As a result, their teeth are more crowded and less able to self-cleanse effectively. Although smaller than Collies, Shetland Sheepdogs can experience dental problems, as well.
8. Chihuahuas
Because of their small size, Chihuahuas often have crowded teeth that are difficult to keep clean. This can lead to plaque buildup and tartar formation, which can eventually lead to tooth decay and gum disease. In addition, Chihuahuas are also susceptible to underbites, which happen when the upper and lower jaws do not line up correctly.
9. Yorkshire Terriers
Yorkies have relatively small mouths, which can cause their teeth to crowd together and become misaligned. This can lead to a build-up of plaque and tartar, which can eventually lead to tooth decay and gum disease.
10. Dachshunds
The distinctive sausage or wiener dog, Dachshunds have a long body and short, stubby legs. Do you know what else they have? They have an exceedingly slim muzzle. All those teeth are crammed into a narrow space, and this can cause some teeth to shift and create dead spaces for the food and bacteria to accumulate.
Regular Teeth Brushing Prevents Dog Dental Disease
First, brush your dog’s teeth frequently with a doggy toothbrush and toothpaste. In addition, provide tons of dental bones and chews for your dog to clean its teeth on. Not only will it ensure good dental health, but it might also spare your shoes and furniture some damage.
Lastly, be sure to keep up with your annual vet checks. This helps your dog live a long, healthy life free of common medical problems!
