Why Chihuahuas Have Bad Teeth

When it comes to dog breeds with dental challenges, Chihuahuas top the list. Their signature pint-sized charm hides a serious issue: they try to cram a full set of 42 adult teeth into a jaw barely the size of a golf ball. The result? Overcrowding, plaque buildup, gum inflammation, and if left unchecked, early tooth loss and systemic disease.

The Anatomy Behind the Problem

Most dogs have 42 permanent teeth, regardless of size. But in Chihuahuas, these teeth are forced into a much smaller space. Imagine fitting a full deck of cards into a coin purse; that’s the level of crowding inside a Chihuahua’s mouth. This lack of space creates tight pockets between teeth, where bacteria, food particles, and tartar thrive.

While larger breeds like Labradors or German Shepherds also face dental risks, their spacious jaws offer better natural cleaning via chewing and less buildup between teeth. Chihuahuas, on the other hand, face a daily uphill battle from the moment their adult teeth come in.

What Happens If You Ignore It?

Dental disease doesn’t stop at the mouth. Periodontal disease (chronic inflammation of the gums and supporting structures) can lead to:

• Tooth loss (by age 3, many Chihuahuas are already missing teeth)
• Oral pain (which often shows as food avoidance or aggression)
• Heart disease (as bacteria from the mouth enters the bloodstream and affects the heart valves)
• Kidney and liver stress (due to chronic low-grade infection)

Periodontal disease is one of the most common health issues in dogs, with studies reporting that up to 80–89% of dogs over three years of age have some form of periodontal disease, and smaller breeds, including Chihuahuas, are particularly predisposed to dental problems.

Warning Signs to Watch For

Dental disease often sneaks up quietly. Early signs include:

• Bad breath (not just “doggy breath”—a sour, metallic scent)
• Red or bleeding gums
• Drooling more than usual
• Reluctance to eat hard kibble
• Pawing at the mouth
• Yellow or brown plaque buildup

Many owners assume these are just quirks or signs of ageing, but they usually signal deeper issues. A routine dental check can reveal just how quickly things can escalate.

Daily Prevention: Brushing and Chews

The gold standard for dog dental health is brushing daily if possible. Use a dog-specific toothbrush and enzymatic toothpaste. Never use human toothpaste, as ingredients like xylitol are toxic to dogs.

But let’s be honest: brushing a Chihuahua’s teeth isn’t always easy. Some owners train their pups early, while others find it nearly impossible. That’s where dental chews, dental toys, and water additives come in as helpful supplements.

Look for treats approved by the Veterinary Oral Health Council (VOHC). They’re designed to reduce tartar through texture, shape, and ingredients that target plaque.

Professional Cleaning: Worth Every Cent

Even with brushing and chews, most Chihuahuas need professional dental cleanings by age 3–4. These cleanings are done under general anaesthesia and allow vets to:

• Scale below the gumline
• Polish tooth surfaces to prevent future plaque buildup
• Extract loose or infected teeth

While the cost can range from $400 to $1000 depending on the vet and severity of the disease, it’s a vital investment. Skipping cleanings can lead to costlier treatments later, such as root canals, extractions, or emergency care due to oral infections spreading.

Nutrition Plays a Role Too

Dry food doesn’t “clean” teeth the way some myths suggest, but certain dental-specific kibble shapes can help scrape plaque. Wet food, often favoured by picky Chihuahuas, tends to stick between teeth and gums. If wet food is part of your dog’s diet, you’ll need to double down on brushing and dental hygiene.

Adding a bit of raw carrot or dental sticks after wet meals can help reduce residue. Also ask your vet whether dental diets like Hill’s T/D or Royal Canin Dental are suitable.

Shedding Light on the Heart Connection

Chihuahuas aren’t just prone to dental issues, they’re also one of the small breeds most affected by heart conditions, particularly mitral valve disease (MVD). What many pet owners overlook is how tightly oral health and cardiac health are connected.

A study from Purdue University found that chronic periodontitis allows oral bacteria to enter the bloodstream, potentially contributing to the development of endocarditis—a dangerous infection of the heart’s inner lining. Dogs with advanced periodontal disease showed greater risk for degenerative heart valve disease, especially small breeds like Chihuahuas and Dachshunds.

In Chihuahuas (who are genetically predisposed to MVD) neglecting daily brushing or routine scale-and-polish procedures doesn’t just risk tooth loss; it can escalate into life-threatening cardiac complications. 

Final Thoughts

Owning a Chihuahua means more than choosing a compact, cuddly companion. It comes with responsibility, especially when it comes to dental care. Prevention is cheaper—and kinder—than treatment.

If you’re thinking about bringing home one of these spirited little dogs, make sure you’re prepared to prioritise their oral health from day one.

And if you’re ready to welcome one into your home, take the time to browse current Chihuahua listings and speak with breeders who understand the long-term dental needs of toy breeds.