15 Dog Breeds That Struggle with Dental Health

Did you know that some dog breeds are more prone to dental issues than others? Just like humans, our canine companions can face serious oral health problems that go beyond bad breath. If left unchecked, dental issues can lead to discomfort and infections and even impact a dog’s overall well-being. In this gallery, we’ll look at 15 dog breeds that tend to struggle the most with dental health.

Dachshunds: Long Dog, Short Luck

First up, we’ve got Dachshunds. These sausage dogs can’t catch a break. While their long bodies are adorable, those narrow mouths are not so great for teeth. In fact, overbites are common, which can lead to damaged chompers. So, if you’ve got a wiener dog, watch those pearly whites closely!

Yorkies: Tiny Terrors with Terrible Teeth

Moving on to Yorkies, these little guys are cute as a button, but their mouths? The Yorkies usually have dental issues that can become so bad that it makes their whole body sick. Because of their bad teeth these pint-sized pooches sometimes have funky breath. Furthermore, the teeth issue may disintegrate to the point that they need to get an extraction.

Shih Tzus: Pushed-In Faces, Pushed-Out Problems

That squishy face we all love? Unfortunately, it’s not doing them any favors in the dental department. As a result, Shih Tzu’s teeth often end up crooked or overcrowded. To make matters worse, their late-blooming adult teeth can suffer halitosis and weakened teeth. Ouch! Needless to say, regular brushing is a must for them.

Maltese: Bright White Coat, Not-So-Bright Teeth

Even though Maltese look like living cotton balls, their mouths can be devilishly troublesome. Maltese often develop late tooth eruptions. Also, overcrowding, underbites, and missing teeth are common issues for these little guys. Here’s a tip: if your Maltese is dropping food or acting picky, it might be time for a dental check-up.

Collies: Herding Champs, Dental Chumps

These clever dogs may be sharp thinkers, but their narrow snouts often bring some tricky dental problems. Your Collie may develop dental hypomineralization, a condition that results in fragile teeth which mostly causes severe pain.

Lhasa Apsos: Palace Dogs with Peasant Teeth

Speaking of royalty, let’s discuss Lhasa Apsos. While these former palace guards may have noble histories, their dental health can be terrible. Their dental problem mostly begins as tartar buildup, which advances to gum infection and tooth rot. So, they need extra tooth care because if they don’t get it frequently it can result in tooth loss.

English Bulldogs: Wrinkly Face, Wonky Teeth

If you thought breathing was the Bulldog’s biggest medical condition, it’s not! In fact, their dental issues take the lead. A Bulldog’s teeth problems can range from misaligned teeth to gingivitis, tartar buildup, and gum issues!  As an English bulldog parent, you really need to always pay extra care and attention to their dental hygiene so it doesn’t worsen.

Cavalier King Charles Spaniels: Royal Blood, Commoner Teeth

Continuing our royal theme, we will discuss Cavalier King Charles Spaniels. These regal most times have overcrowded and misaligned teeth that lead to painful inflammation and eventually tooth loss if not properly treated. And just like old castles, things can get pretty gross pretty fast without proper care. Time for a royal decree: more brushing!

Pugs: Squishy Faces, Squished Teeth

Next on our list are Pugs. The smooshed-face life doesn’t do these little guys’ teeth any favors. A pug is prone to having persistent dental issues such as visible teeth tartar, gum disease, bad breath, and excessive drooling. Plus, they’re prone to gum disease. Those adorable wrinkles come at a cost, it seems!

Chihuahuas: Tiny Dogs, Titanic Dental Issues

Now, let’s talk about Chihuahuas. Trying to fit a full set of dog teeth into their tiny mouths is like playing dental Tetris. Consequently, overcrowding is a huge issue, leading to plaque buildup and gum disease. If these issues are left untreated for a long time, it goes from being treatable to life-threatening!

Boxers: Goofy Grins Hide Dental Sins

Moving on to Boxers, these pups might always look like they’re smiling, but their teeth aren’t always happy. The misalignment turns their mouths into plaque party central, and periodontal disease often crashes that party. So, if you’ve got a Boxer, get ready to become best friends with your vet’s dental hygienist!

Boston Terriers: Tuxedo-Clad Teeth Troubles

Boston Terriers’ brachycephalic faces put them at risk for dental issues. Their wide mouths can lead to misaligned teeth and increased plaque buildup. In order to keep these dapper dogs’ smiles as sharp as their tuxedo-like coats, brushing their teeth regularly and getting regular dental checkups are essential.

Shetland Sheepdogs: Herding Pros, Dental Woes

Let’s not forget about Shetland Sheepdogs. Shelties might be whizzes at herding sheep, but keeping their teeth in line? Not so much. They’re prone to overbites and infections in gum pockets. These intelligent pups need regular dental care to prevent issues that could interfere with their herding abilities and overall health.

Mastiffs:  Ginormous Dental Problems

Last but not least, we have Mastiffs. These big softies might melt your heart, but their dental issues are no small matter. Their gums tend to overgrow, making it difficult to keep their teeth clean. They also suffer from inflamed gums and funky breath. Tooth care for these dogs needs to be equally gentle but thorough.