Dachshund Dental Care: Why It’s More Important Than You Think

We all want our dachshunds to live long, happy lives. I’ve been feeding mine quality food, taking them on daily walks, and yes, spoiling them with way too many cozy blankets and toys for years now. But I’ve learned that there’s one crucial part of your dachshund’s health that often gets overlooked: their teeth.

Dental care for dachshunds isn’t just about avoiding bad breath, though trust me, your nose will thank you. It’s about preventing pain, infections, and even organ damage that can come from neglected teeth and gums.

Let’s talk about why dental care matters so much for our little wiener dogs and exactly how to take care of those tiny chompers.

🐾 Why Dental Care Is a Big Deal for Small Dogs Like Dachshunds

Here’s the thing I’ve noticed after years with my doxies: these little guys are more prone to dental issues than many other breeds. Why? It comes down to their small mouths and crowded teeth. Plaque and tartar build up faster in those tight spaces, and if it’s not cleaned off, it hardens into tartar, causing gum irritation and tooth decay.

Common dental problems I’ve seen in dachshunds:

• Gingivitis – inflammation of the gums
• Periodontal disease – an advanced gum infection that can lead to tooth loss
• Tooth abscesses – painful, infected pockets at the root of a tooth
• Jaw bone loss – caused by long-term, untreated gum disease
• Organ problems – bacteria from the mouth can enter the bloodstream and affect the heart, kidneys, or liver

The scary part? Many of these issues happen silently — your dog might still be munching on treats and playing fetch while dealing with painful dental disease.

🧼 How to Brush Your Dachshund’s Teeth: A Beginner’s Guide

If the idea of brushing your dog’s teeth sounds like a nightmare, I get it. I felt the same way at first. But with a little patience and the right tools, it’s not that bad. My doxie now literally runs to me when I pull out the toothbrush (the chicken-flavored toothpaste might have something to do with that).

Here’s how I get it done:

🛠️ What You’ll Need:

• A dog toothbrush (or finger brush)
• Enzymatic dog toothpaste (never use human toothpaste – learned that one the hard way)
• Tasty treats for positive reinforcement

🪥 Step-by-Step Brushing Technique:

1. Start Slow: Let your dog sniff the toothbrush and taste the toothpaste. Don’t rush into brushing. My doxie needed almost a week of just this step.
2. Get in Position: Gently hold your pup’s muzzle or lift their lips to expose their teeth. I find sitting on the couch with them in my lap works best.
3. Use Circular Motions: Focus on the outer surface of the teeth and gently brush in small circles, especially near the gumline. That’s where all the gross stuff hides.
4. Take Breaks if Needed: If your dachshund gets squirmy, stop and try again later. Don’t force it. Some days we only get half the mouth done, and that’s fine.
5. Praise & Reward: End on a positive note with praise and a favorite treat. My dogs know they always get a special treat after brushing.

📅 How Often?

Aim for brushing at least 3 times per week. Daily is ideal, but let’s be real – consistency is what really counts. Even twice a week is better than never.

Need more grooming tips? Check out Do Dachshunds Need Grooming?

🦴 Dental Treats and Chews That Actually Help

While brushing is the best way to keep your dog’s teeth clean, dental treats and chews can provide extra support, and your dachshund definitely won’t complain about a tasty snack.

Best dental treats I’ve tried with my dachshunds:

• Whimzees – grain-free, fun shapes that help scrub teeth (my dogs go nuts for these)
• Greenies – vet-recommended and easy to digest (great for older doxies)
• Carrots & apple slices – crunchy, natural options that help clean teeth (cheap and healthy)
• Dental sticks with enzymes – look for VOHC (Veterinary Oral Health Council) approval (these work)

💧 Bonus Tip:

Try adding a dog-safe water additive to their bowl. These can help reduce bacteria in the mouth and freshen breath. I’ve been using one for years, and it helps with the dreaded “doxie breath.”

Wondering what else your dachshund can safely eat? Read Dachshund Feeding Chart: What You Need to Know

🏥 Vet Cleanings: Why They’re a Must (Even If You Brush)

Even with daily brushing and dental chews, your dachshund will still need professional cleanings from your veterinarian. I schedule these for all three of my dachshunds every year like clockwork.

Why vet dental cleanings matter:

• They clean below the gumline, where plaque hides.
• They can remove hardened tartar that brushing can’t. (I was shocked at what came off my “clean” dog’s teeth.)
• Your vet can check for hidden issues like cracked teeth, loose teeth, or infections.
• You’ll prevent problems before they become painful or expensive. (Trust me, emergency dental work is no fun for anyone.)

🗓️ How often should you schedule cleanings?

Most vets recommend a yearly cleaning, especially for small breeds like dachshunds. Some older dogs or those with existing dental issues may need them more often.

Yes, it’s done under anesthesia — and yes, that can be a little scary. I still get nervous every time. But it’s safe, effective, and often necessary for your dog’s long-term health.

Learn more about total health and wellness in How to Raise a Happy & Healthy Dachshund

🚩 Signs Your Dachshund May Have Dental Problems

Not sure if your dachshund’s teeth need attention? Here are some warning signs I’ve learned to watch out for:

• 🦨 Bad breath (that doesn’t go away even after a teeth cleaning)
• 🍽️ Chewing on one side or dropping food (my first doxie did this for days before I realized why)
• 🤢 Brown or yellow teeth (those pearly whites shouldn’t be tan)
• 👅 Red, swollen, or bleeding gums (a big red flag)
• 😖 Whining or pawing at the mouth (heartbreaking to see)
• 🐌 Acting more tired or cranky than usual (dental pain can affect their mood)

If you notice any of these, it’s time to schedule a dental check-up. Don’t wait like I did the first time.

Related read: Why Do Dachshunds Have Bad Breath?

🧠 Final Thoughts: Don’t Skip the Dental Routine!

Dachshund dental care might not be the most glamorous part of pet parenting, but it’s one of the most important. After raising doxies for over a decade, I can tell you that making dental care part of your routine helps your dog stay happy, healthy, and pain-free.

Here’s your dental care checklist:

✅ Brush teeth at least 3x per week

✅ Offer vet-approved dental treats and chews

✅ Schedule yearly vet dental cleanings

✅ Watch for early signs of dental disease

Your dachshund gives you unconditional love (and lots of licks) — now it’s your turn to help them keep those teeth in top shape. 🐾