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Dental disease in dachshunds

Dental disease begins with plaque build-up that hardens into tartar, leading to gum inflammation, loose teeth, and infection. Dachshunds have narrow, crowded jaws that encourage rapid bacterial accumulation, potentially causing chronic oral pain and permitting bacteria to spread into the bloodstream.

Signs to look for

Persistent bad breath
Yellow or brown tartar along the gumline
Red, swollen, or bleeding gums
Dropping food or chewing on one side of the mouth
Reluctance to chew toys or eat hard kibble
Pawing at the face or mouth
Loose or missing teeth

What you can do at home

Introduce daily brushing using a soft pet toothbrush and dog-safe toothpaste
Inspect the teeth and gums regularly under good lighting
Provide vet-approved dental chews that match your dog's size
Avoid hard bones, hooves, or antlers that can fracture teeth

Call the vet when

Facial swelling below the eye or along the jawline
Refusal to eat due to evident mouth pain
Significant bleeding, pus, or ulceration along the gums
Wobbly, fractured, or deeply discoloured teeth needing extraction

Prevention

Establish a daily toothbrushing routine from early puppyhood
Book professional veterinary dental assessments at annual check-ups
Use diets or water additives with veterinary seal certification
Monitor toys to ensure they do not cause mechanical wear or damage

Why dachshunds in particular

Due to their long, narrow muzzles and relatively large teeth, dachshunds frequently suffer from dental crowding, creating tight gaps where food debris and plaque accumulate quickly.

Sources

Merck Veterinary Manual (general reference), Merck
Cornell Riney Canine Health Center (general reference), Cornell University

General information in our own words. It does not replace advice from your own vet.

Facts are cited and rewritten in our own words. All sources and how we use them.