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How common are dental problems in dogs?

Wendy Schneider
Wendy Schneider
2025-09-14 17:33:45
Count answers : 18
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As many as 80% of dogs and 70% of cats have some form of periodontal disease by the time they’re just two years old. Dental disease is more common in small dog breeds, like Poodles, Yorkshire Terriers, Chihuahuas, and Dachshunds, and brachycephalic breeds, such as Boxers, Bulldogs, French Bulldogs, and Shih Tzus. For dogs, a few of the most common dental conditions include gingivitis, plaque and tartar build-up, and periodontitis. Due to genetics, some cat breeds may be more susceptible to dental disease, including Abyssinians, Maine Coons, Persians, and Somalis. Brachycephalic cat breeds are also more prone to dental disease like their canine counterparts. For cats, the three most common dental diseases are gingivitis, periodontitis, and tooth resorption. As carnivores, cats’ teeth were developed to chew prey which helped keep them clean, and this cleaning action is not provided by typical present-day cat food diets, which can contribute to dental problems.
Ocie Bechtelar
Ocie Bechtelar
2025-09-14 15:26:47
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Periodontal disease is the most prevalent disease in all dogs, but some breeds are at higher risk, says Dr. Donald Beebe, a veterinarian with Apex Dog and Cat Dentistry in Englewood, Colorado. With small breeds—generally anyone shorter than knee height—periodontal disease is a huge problem, says Dr. Donnell Hansen, a veterinarian with BluePearl Veterinary Partners in Blaine, Minnesota. But some dogs, particularly smaller breeds, are at a higher risk of developing periodontal disease. Dental disease is serious business. It affects not only a dog’s teeth and gums, but also can cause infection and ultimately result in organ failure, if left untreated.