[Vinniedoggy]

Unfortunately, Yorkies are predisposed to having bad teeth. But a diligent owner can really help prevent all the problems that decaying teeth can bring, such as bad breath and more serious health problems (including heart failure and dangerous infections).

Here's what you need to do - first, start with a good, professional cleaning by a vet. This will require anesthesia, but it's really necessary to do this. A professional cleaning will allow the vet to assess the damage to your dogs' mouth, scrape off all the plaque, and remove any teeth that cannot be saved.

Once your vet has done this and your dogs' mouth has healed, you need to immediately start on a home cleaning regimen. I brush my dogs' teeth every night. It takes me about 30 seconds per dog and costs about $10/month for toothbrushes and toothpaste for both of them. When you start your regimen, be sure to do it at the same time, preferably in the evening when your dog is tired. Start slow - the first time you do this, you may just get your dog to lick the toothpaste. Be sure to use lots of positive reinforcement and encouragement for each small step forward. Slowly progress to getting the toothbrush into your dog's mouth. Soon, you'll be able to brush your dog's teeth for a good 30 seconds (that's about all my dogs tolerate).

I can say that by following this regimen (along with a grain-free, raw diet), my dogs have had no teeth issues. I've had Vinnie for 7 years and he's only had his teeth cleaned twice (and the vet wasn't even sure he needed the last cleaning, but we did it anyway just to be able to check for any issues and because he had to be put under anesthesia for something else).