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Why does my Chihuahua have bad breath and black discolored teeth?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Chihuahua | Male | neutered | 5 years and 8 months old | 9 lbs

Bad teeth Chihuahuas breath

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1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Angela Hinton, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on January 22nd, 2018

Thank you for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! While you didn't ask a specific question about Tanner I am assuming you are concerned about the black discoloration of his teeth. This is likely calculus accumulation and dental disease. Bad breath is usually associated with bacteria in the mouth from dental disease as well. While I don't think this is an emergency based on the photo you provided, I recommend you take Tanner in to see his vet soon. He would benefit from a dental exam and your vet will likely recommend a cleaning to remove the calculus and tartar on his teeth. Dental disease is one of the most common issues in small breed dogs and is very common. Removing the calculus now will help keep his teeth healthy longer and will definitely improve his breath! .

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