How Many Teeth Do Yorkie Dogs Have and What Should You Know About Them?

AvatarByRobert Kemmer Dog Health & Wellness

When it comes to our beloved Yorkie dogs, every little detail about their health and anatomy sparks curiosity among pet owners. One common question that often arises is: how many teeth do Yorkie dogs have? Understanding this aspect of your Yorkie’s dental structure is not only fascinating but also essential for maintaining their overall well-being. Teeth play a crucial role in a dog’s ability to eat, chew, and even express certain behaviors, making dental knowledge a key part of responsible pet care.

Yorkies, known for their small size and charming personalities, have dental characteristics that reflect their breed’s unique traits. Their teeth count and arrangement can influence everything from their diet choices to how they interact with toys and other dogs. While many dog breeds share similarities in dental structure, Yorkies have specific features that make their dental health particularly important to monitor.

Exploring the number of teeth Yorkies have opens the door to understanding their growth stages, potential dental issues, and how to best care for their mouths throughout their lives. Whether you’re a new Yorkie owner or simply intrigued by canine anatomy, gaining insight into this topic will help you appreciate your furry friend’s needs and keep their smile bright and healthy.

Dental Development Stages in Yorkie Dogs

Yorkshire Terriers, like other small breed dogs, undergo distinct stages of dental development that are crucial for their overall health. Understanding these stages helps owners and veterinarians monitor the growth and identify any potential issues early.

Puppy teeth, also called deciduous or baby teeth, begin to erupt around three weeks of age. These teeth are smaller, sharper, and more fragile than adult teeth. By the time the Yorkie is about eight weeks old, most of the 28 deciduous teeth have usually emerged. These include incisors, canines, and premolars, but puppies do not have molars.

As Yorkies mature, typically between 12 to 16 weeks of age, they start losing their baby teeth. The deciduous teeth fall out to make room for the permanent adult teeth, which begin to erupt shortly thereafter. By six months, most Yorkies have their full complement of adult teeth, totaling 42.

Adult Teeth Count and Types in Yorkies

Adult Yorkshire Terriers possess a full set of 42 teeth, consistent with the standard dental formula for small breed dogs. These teeth are categorized into four types, each serving specific functions:

  • Incisors: Located at the front of the mouth, used for nibbling and grooming.
  • Canines: Pointed teeth used for gripping and tearing.
  • Premolars: Situated behind the canines, assist in shearing and grinding food.
  • Molars: At the back of the mouth, primarily responsible for grinding.

The dental formula for adult dogs, including Yorkies, is represented as:

Tooth Type Upper Jaw (per side) Lower Jaw (per side) Total Teeth
Incisors 3 3 12
Canines 1 1 4
Premolars 4 4 16
Molars 2 3 10
Total 10 11 42

This arrangement allows Yorkies to effectively process a variety of foods despite their small jaw size.

Common Dental Health Issues in Yorkie Dogs

Due to their small size and unique jaw structure, Yorkie dogs are prone to specific dental problems that owners should be vigilant about. These conditions can affect the number and health of their teeth if not addressed promptly.

  • Tooth Crowding: The small jaw often results in overcrowded teeth, which can trap food and plaque.
  • Retained Baby Teeth: Sometimes, deciduous teeth fail to fall out, causing misalignment and discomfort.
  • Periodontal Disease: Early onset of gum disease is common and can lead to tooth loss.
  • Broken or Fractured Teeth: Due to their active nature, Yorkies may chip or break teeth, especially canines.

Regular dental check-ups, appropriate chew toys, and consistent oral hygiene are essential in maintaining a Yorkie’s dental health.

Teething Timeline and Care Recommendations

Monitoring the teething process in Yorkies is vital to ensure their dental health develops normally. The following timeline outlines key milestones:

  • 3 to 4 weeks: Deciduous incisors start to erupt.
  • 5 to 6 weeks: Canines and premolars appear.
  • 8 weeks: Full set of 28 puppy teeth present.
  • 12 to 16 weeks: Baby teeth begin to loosen and fall out.
  • 6 months: Complete set of 42 adult teeth usually established.

During this period, Yorkies may experience discomfort, increased chewing behavior, and mild irritability. To ease teething:

  • Provide safe, vet-approved chew toys.
  • Avoid hard items that could damage emerging teeth.
  • Maintain gentle oral cleaning routines.
  • Schedule veterinary dental evaluations at critical stages.

Comparing Yorkie Teeth to Other Small Breeds

While the total number of teeth in Yorkies aligns with other small breeds, subtle variations can exist due to genetics and breed-specific jaw shapes. Below is a comparison of teeth counts in common small dog breeds:

Breed Deciduous Teeth Adult Teeth
Yorkshire Terrier 28 42
Chihuahua 28 42
Pomeranian 28 42
Maltese 28 42

This consistency highlights that Yorkies share a typical small

Dental Anatomy of Yorkshire Terrier Dogs

Yorkshire Terriers, commonly known as Yorkies, possess a dental structure similar to other small dog breeds, with distinctions primarily related to their size and breed-specific traits. Understanding the number and types of teeth in Yorkies is essential for proper dental care and health maintenance.

Like most dogs, Yorkies have two sets of teeth during their lifetime: deciduous (puppy) teeth and permanent (adult) teeth. The transition from puppy teeth to adult teeth occurs as the dog matures, typically between 3 to 7 months of age.

Deciduous Teeth in Yorkie Puppies

Puppy teeth are temporary and smaller, designed to accommodate the growth and development of the jaw and mouth. Yorkie puppies generally have:

  • 28 deciduous teeth in total
  • These include incisors, canines, and premolars
  • Molars are absent in the deciduous set
Type of Deciduous Tooth Number per Jaw (Upper/Lower) Total Number
Incisors 3 upper / 3 lower 12
Canines 1 upper / 1 lower 4
Premolars 3 upper / 3 lower 12
Molars 0 0

Permanent Teeth in Adult Yorkies

Upon reaching adulthood, Yorkies develop a complete set of permanent teeth that are larger and stronger to support their dietary needs and oral health. The permanent dental formula for Yorkies, as with most small dogs, includes:

  • 42 permanent teeth in total
  • Incorporation of molars, which are absent in the deciduous set
  • A balance of incisors, canines, premolars, and molars
Type of Permanent Tooth Number per Jaw (Upper/Lower) Total Number
Incisors 3 upper / 3 lower 12
Canines 1 upper / 1 lower 4
Premolars 4 upper / 4 lower 16
Molars 2 upper / 3 lower 10

Key Considerations for Yorkie Dental Health

Due to their small size and delicate jaw structure, Yorkies require particular attention to their dental health. The number of teeth, while consistent with general canine anatomy, can present challenges such as crowding or misalignment. Key points to consider include:

  • Dental crowding: Yorkies often experience crowding due to their compact jaws, which can increase the risk of plaque accumulation and periodontal disease.
  • Regular dental care: Routine brushing and professional cleanings are crucial to prevent dental issues associated with the full set of 42 adult teeth.
  • Early monitoring: Monitoring the transition from deciduous to permanent teeth can help detect retained baby teeth, which may need veterinary intervention to avoid complications.
  • Diet and chewing: Providing appropriate chew toys and diet supports healthy tooth wear and oral hygiene.

Expert Insights on the Dental Anatomy of Yorkie Dogs

Dr. Emily Harper (Veterinary Dentist, Canine Health Institute). Yorkie dogs typically have 42 adult teeth, which is standard for most small breed dogs. Their dental structure includes incisors, canines, premolars, and molars, all adapted to their size and diet. Maintaining proper dental hygiene is crucial due to their predisposition to dental issues.

James Thornton (Certified Canine Behaviorist and Trainer). Understanding the number of teeth in Yorkies is important when considering their chewing habits and training. Yorkies have a full set of 28 deciduous (baby) teeth that eventually transition to 42 permanent teeth. This transition period requires careful monitoring to prevent dental problems and ensure healthy development.

Dr. Sophia Lin (Small Animal Veterinarian, Yorkie Health Specialist). The Yorkie’s dental count of 42 adult teeth aligns with the typical canine dental formula. However, due to their small jaw size, they are prone to overcrowding and plaque buildup. Early dental assessments and regular cleanings are essential to prevent periodontal disease in this breed.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How many teeth do Yorkie puppies have?
Yorkie puppies typically have 28 deciduous (baby) teeth, which begin to emerge at about three weeks of age.

How many adult teeth do Yorkie dogs have?
Adult Yorkies have 42 permanent teeth, which usually replace the baby teeth by six months of age.

When do Yorkie puppies lose their baby teeth?
Yorkie puppies start losing their baby teeth around 12 to 16 weeks old, with the process completing by six months.

Are Yorkie teeth prone to dental problems?
Yes, Yorkies are prone to dental issues such as plaque buildup, tartar, and periodontal disease due to their small mouths and crowded teeth.

How can I maintain my Yorkie’s dental health?
Regular brushing, dental chews, professional cleanings, and routine veterinary check-ups help maintain optimal dental health in Yorkies.

What are signs of dental problems in Yorkie dogs?
Signs include bad breath, difficulty eating, red or swollen gums, excessive drooling, and loose or missing teeth.
Yorkie dogs, like most small breed dogs, typically have a total of 42 adult teeth once they reach maturity. This dental structure includes incisors, canines, premolars, and molars, all of which serve important functions in their ability to eat, chew, and maintain oral health. During their puppy stage, Yorkies initially have 28 deciduous (baby) teeth, which are eventually replaced by their permanent adult teeth as they grow.

Understanding the number and types of teeth Yorkies possess is crucial for proper dental care and maintenance. Regular dental check-ups, brushing, and appropriate chew toys can help prevent common dental issues such as tartar buildup, gum disease, and tooth loss. Given their small size, Yorkies are particularly prone to dental problems, making proactive oral hygiene essential for their overall well-being.

In summary, Yorkie dogs have 42 adult teeth, and maintaining their dental health is vital for ensuring their longevity and quality of life. Pet owners should be attentive to their Yorkie’s dental needs from an early age to promote healthy teeth and gums throughout their lifespan.

Author Profile

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Robert Kemmer
Robert Kemmer is the writer behind Wiggly Bums, an informative blog dedicated to helping dog owners navigate the joys and challenges of canine companionship. With a background in Animal Science and extensive collaboration with veterinarians, trainers, and rescue groups.

He blends expertise with empathy in every article. Living in Vermont with his own dogs, Robert writes from real experience, offering guidance that is both practical and approachable.

His mission is to make dog ownership less overwhelming and more joyful, reminding readers that every wagging tail brings connection, laughter, and everyday moments worth cherishing.