Little dogs have the same number of adult teeth as big dogs (42) packed into a much smaller mouth. That crowding is one reason small and toy breeds are especially prone to dental disease. The good news: a few minutes of care a day makes a real difference, and it's easier to start than most people think.
Why small dogs need extra dental attention
- Crowded teeth trap food and plaque more easily.
- Retained baby teeth are common in toy breeds. When a puppy tooth doesn't fall out, the adult tooth comes in beside it and creates another hiding place for plaque. Ask your veterinarian to check for these around six months of age.
- Plaque becomes tartar within days, and tartar can't be brushed away at home. Daily brushing removes plaque before it hardens.
Gather the right supplies
- Dog toothpaste only. Never use human toothpaste. Many contain ingredients, including xylitol in some brands, that are dangerous for dogs. Dog toothpaste is safe to swallow and comes in flavors dogs actually like.
- A small brush. A finger brush or an extra-small, soft-bristled dog toothbrush fits a petite mouth best.
- Treats for afterward. A tiny reward helps build a positive routine.
A simple five-step routine
- Start with a taste. For the first few days, just let your dog lick a little toothpaste off your finger.
- Touch the mouth. Gently lift the lip and rub a fingertip along the outside of the teeth for a few seconds. Praise and stop while it's still easy.
- Introduce the brush. Add toothpaste to the brush and work on a few teeth at a time, using small circles along the gumline.
- Focus on the outside surfaces. The outer sides of the back teeth, the upper cheek teeth especially, collect the most tartar. Most dogs won't let you brush the inner surfaces, and that's okay.
- Build up to daily. Aim for about 30 seconds to a minute a day. Daily brushing is ideal, but even a few times a week is far better than none.
Choose a calm time of day, such as after an evening walk, and keep the mood relaxed. If your dog gets wiggly, stop on a good note and try again tomorrow. Patience now pays off for years.
Chews and other helpers
Dental chews, water additives, and special diets can help, but they work best alongside brushing, not instead of it. Look for products that carry the Veterinary Oral Health Council (VOHC) seal, which means they've met that group's standards for reducing plaque or tartar. For petite dogs, always choose chews sized for small breeds, and supervise chewing. Avoid very hard items such as antlers, bones, and hard nylon toys, which can fracture small teeth.
Professional cleanings
Home care slows plaque, but most dogs still need professional dental cleanings over their lifetime. Your veterinarian can examine your dog's mouth at regular checkups and recommend when a cleaning is needed. Thorough cleanings that reach below the gumline are done under anesthesia so the teeth can be cleaned and checked safely.
Signs it's time to see your veterinarian
- Persistent bad breath
- Red, swollen, or bleeding gums
- Yellow or brown buildup on the teeth
- Dropping food, chewing on one side, or a sudden preference for soft food
- Pawing at the mouth, drooling, or facial swelling
- Loose or broken teeth
This article is general information for people who love small dogs. It isn't veterinary advice. Please talk with your veterinarian about your own dog's health.