Toy breeds less than 15 pounds (6.8 kgs) do have more problems associated with controlling dental disease due to their smaller mouth size and in some cases, longer hair around the muzzle. In toy breeds, the smaller the mouth size, the closer the spacing or crowding of the teeth coupled with a higher frequency of being fed a soft diet or table food can cause more substantial plaque buildup. Large breed dogs have greater spacing between teeth and in general do not show signs of dental disease as quickly, but if the pet has abnormal tooth alignment then this can cause the teeth to overlap and therefore dental disease can present more rapidly.

Jeanne Perrone, MS, CVT, VTS (Dentistry)