Yorkshire Terrier

Yorkshire Terrier

Rapid tartar formation and persistent baby teeth

High Risk
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Common Dental Issues

Unusually Rapid Tartar Formation

Yorkies have an exceptionally fast plaque-to-tartar conversion rate, meaning plaque calcifies into calculus faster than in most other breeds.

Persistent Baby Teeth

Retained baby teeth are common in Yorkies. If not fallen out by 6 months, your vet should extract them.

Front Tooth Crowding

Despite a slightly longer muzzle than flat-face breeds, Yorkies often have significant overlapping of front teeth.

Early Gum Disease

Without daily brushing, Yorkies often develop visible gingivitis before age 3.

Puffy
PUFFY'S
TAKE
"Yorkies form tartar faster than almost any other breed β€” visible deposits on their front teeth can appear surprisingly quickly. The daily habit matters more for Yorkies than for most breeds. Don't skip days."
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Recommended Care Routine

DailyBrush teeth β€” never skip a day with Yorkies
DailyAdd bluestem to the water bowl
DailyOne small dental chew after meals
WeeklyCheck for new yellowing at the gum line
Every 6 monthsVet dental exam from age 1
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Recommended Products

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Drby Pet Co Natural ToothpasteπŸ‡¨πŸ‡¦

Handmade in Canada β€” all-natural, no xylitol or sorbitol.

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Dog Silicone Finger Brush

Easier to control in small mouths. Best starting point.

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bluestem Water AdditiveπŸ‡¨πŸ‡¦

Canadian brand β€” add to the bowl daily. Odourless and tasteless.

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Crumps' Plaque Busters SmallπŸ‡¨πŸ‡¦

Canadian brand β€” dental sticks with probiotics for small dogs.

πŸ‡¨πŸ‡¦ = Made or based in Canada Β· All links go to Amazon.ca with affiliate tag. Affiliate disclosure.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Why do Yorkies get tartar so quickly?

Yorkies have an unusually rapid plaque-to-tartar conversion rate. Heavy calculus on the front teeth is often visible by age 2 without prevention.

How often should I brush my Yorkie's teeth?

Daily, without exception. The rapid tartar formation means even missing a day or two allows significant accumulation.

Does my Yorkie have retained baby teeth?

Retained baby teeth are common in Yorkies. If not fallen out by 6 months, your vet should extract them β€” ideally at spay/neuter.

What is the best dental product for a Yorkshire Terrier?

An enzymatic toothpaste used daily with a silicone finger brush is most effective. Complement with a daily XS dental chew and a water additive.

Not sure about your Yorkshire Terrier?

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