Here are the 10 adorable dog breeds most prone to dental problems and toothaches – including the cheeky Lab
Many of us have decided to welcome new puppies into our homes over the past two years – according to Kennel Club figures, dog ownership has soared nearly eight percent – and demand post- containment for beautiful dogs remains high.
There are 221 different purebred dog breeds to choose from, as well as many crosses, so there’s a lot of thought to go into before selecting the latest addition to your family.
There’s even academic guidance to seek out, with psychologist Stanley Coren’s book “The Intelligence of Dogs” ranking breeds by instinct, obedience and adaptability.
Another thing to consider is that some breeds are prone to developing dental issues.
This can be due to a number of reasons, including some breeds having overcrowded mouths, and the problems can be alleviated by regularly cleaning your pet’s teeth, avoiding sugary foods and regular veterinary checks.
Here are the 10 dog breeds that are prone to developing dental problems, what to look out for, and how to treat the problem.
Pugs, as well as other short-muzzled dog breeds like Bulldogs and Boston Terriers, regularly develop dental problems due to their small, overcrowded mouths. This means it’s easy for plaque to build up, causing gingivitis, gum disease, and tooth loss. Just like with humans, the key is to keep their teeth clean.
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Great Danes are one of many dog breeds that tend to develop overgrown or thickened gums due to a condition called gingival hyperplasia. Other dogs affected are Boxers, Mastiffs, Bulldogs and Collies.
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The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is another breed known to easily develop tartar buildup. It is important not to leave the problem untreated, as it can ultimately lead not only to tooth loss, but also to heart, liver and kidney disease.
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Yorkshire Terriers have a very particular combination of dental issues that can cause problems – they are genetically predisposed to tooth decay and often retain their baby teeth which leads to crowded mouths. Daily brushing of the Yorkie’s teeth is a good idea.
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