Dachshund Teeth Problems – Everything to Know

Dachshunds, also known as wiener or sausage dogs, are among the most popular companion breeds. They are playful dogs with big personalities that love following their noses.

If you have a dachshund or plan to adopt one, it is important to know about the potential health problems this breed is prone to develop. While they are generally healthy dogs, dachshunds are at a higher risk of dental problems than other breeds. In this article, we’ll cover exactly that – going over dachshund teeth problems.

Read on to find out what teeth problems dachshunds have and how dog parents can prevent them.

What Teeth Problems Do Dachshunds Have?

Below are the most common dachshund teeth problems.

Plaque and Tartar Buildup

Plaque and tartar buildup may seem harmless at first, but they can lead to various health issues if left untreated. Plaque, the soft, sticky layer of bacteria that forms on the teeth, can harden into tartar, making it more difficult to remove. This can irritate the gum tissue and cause inflammation, leading to pain and discomfort while eating.

This is the root cause or the early sign of many dachshund teeth problems. However, it can be treated easily by brushing your dachshund’s teeth daily. Although it can be difficult for you and your dog to pick up this habit, it is never too late.

Also, feeding your dachshund dry dog food can help prevent plaque and tartar buildup. Look for expert dog food reviews, such as Dog Academy’s in-depth article, to find the right food for your dachshund.

Since there’s a lot that goes into picking the best food for your dog besides dental care, informing yourself about what to feed your dog is important for their overall health, not just dental.

Periodontal Disease

Periodontal disease is a severe health problem that can affect dogs regardless of breed. However, because dachshunds are prone to plaque and tartar buildup, it can lead to periodontal disease, of which poor oral hygiene is the most common cause.

This condition affects the gum and can lead to tooth loss in dachshunds and go as far as damaging the ligaments and bone around the tooth.

Bad Breath

It is well-known among dachshund owners that these dogs tend to have bad breath. Although it can happen after eating something you might find stinky, it is typically caused by plaque and tartar, which can lead to persistent bad breath.

Plaque and tartar may not be as noticeable, but bad breath is. If you notice that your dachshund has constant bad breath, it is a sign of dental problems in your dog.

Preventing Dachshund Teeth Problems

While these teeth problems may be scary, your dachshund doesn’t have to develop these dental issues. Below, you’ll discover what you can do as a dog owner to prevent dachshund teeth problems.

• Daily Brushing: First and foremost, daily brushing is a must for preventing teeth problems in dachshunds. It will control plaque and tartar buildup, which is the cause of many dachshund dental problems. In addition to daily brushing, you can ask your vet for recommendations for antibacterial oral solutions to improve oral hygiene.
• Diet: What your dog eats is one of the most important factors for dental health. Low-quality kibble and wet food usually contribute to a faster buildup of plaque than high-quality dog food. Ask your vet for recommendations or check Dog Academy’s post to find the best dog food for your dachshund’s dental health.
• Chew Toys and Treats: Chewing can help prevent or even scrape off plaque from your dog’s teeth. Chew toys or treats, particularly the ones designed for dental health, are excellent for fighting off dental problems.
• Monitor Dental Health: Lastly, always monitor your dog’s dental health. Inspect every now and then for any signs of dental problems, like red or swollen gums, bad breath, and plaque buildup. This will help you identify and treat dental problems early before they become a bigger problem for your dachshund.

Brush Your Dachshund’s Teeth to Eliminate Dental Problems

The most common reason for dachshund teeth problems is poor oral hygiene. Just as it can lead to dental issues in humans, it is the same for dogs.

To prevent dental problems that can significantly reduce the life quality of your dachshund, it is important to make daily brushing and dental care a habit for your dog as early as possible.