How Many Teeth Do Yorkie Dogs Have?

AvatarByWilliam Warren Dog Health & Wellness

When it comes to our beloved Yorkie dogs, every little detail about their health and care sparks curiosity among pet owners. One question that often arises is about their teeth—specifically, how many teeth do Yorkie dogs have? Understanding this aspect of their anatomy is not only fascinating but also essential for maintaining their dental health and overall well-being.

Yorkies, known for their tiny size and big personalities, have a dental structure that reflects both their breed characteristics and their developmental stages. Their teeth play a crucial role in everything from eating to playing, and knowing the basics about their dental count can help owners recognize what’s normal and when to seek veterinary advice. This overview will set the stage for exploring the unique dental traits of Yorkies and why dental care is so important for these small companions.

In the sections that follow, we will delve deeper into the specifics of Yorkie teeth, including how many they have at different stages of life and what makes their dental care distinct from other breeds. Whether you’re a new Yorkie owner or simply curious about canine anatomy, this guide will provide valuable insights into your furry friend’s smile.

Adult Teeth Count and Development in Yorkie Dogs

Yorkshire Terriers, commonly known as Yorkies, typically have a full set of adult teeth once they reach maturity. Like most small dog breeds, Yorkies develop their permanent teeth after losing their deciduous, or baby, teeth. The transition from puppy teeth to adult teeth generally completes by the time the dog is about six to seven months old.

Adult Yorkie dogs have a total of 42 permanent teeth. This dental formula is consistent with most breeds of dogs and is crucial for their ability to chew food properly, maintain oral health, and perform natural behaviors such as chewing and biting.

The permanent teeth include:

  • Incisors: Located at the front of the mouth, used for nibbling and grooming.
  • Canines: Sharp, pointed teeth beside the incisors, important for grasping.
  • Premolars: Located behind the canines, used for shearing and grinding food.
  • Molars: Positioned at the back of the mouth, essential for grinding.

Understanding the development timeline and the total number of teeth can help owners monitor their Yorkie’s dental health and identify any abnormalities early.

Puppy Teeth vs. Adult Teeth in Yorkies

Yorkie puppies are born without teeth. Their deciduous teeth start to erupt at about three weeks of age, and by eight weeks, most puppies have a complete set of 28 baby teeth. These teeth are smaller, sharper, and more fragile than adult teeth.

The transition from puppy teeth to adult teeth occurs between 3 to 7 months of age. During this period, puppies lose their baby teeth as the adult teeth push through the gums. The difference in the number of teeth between puppy and adult Yorkies is significant:

  • Puppy teeth: 28 total
  • Adult teeth: 42 total

This increase in the number of teeth is due to the emergence of additional premolars and molars that are not present in the puppy set.

The process of losing puppy teeth and growing adult teeth can cause discomfort and sometimes behavioral changes such as increased chewing or irritability. Regular dental check-ups during this stage are important to ensure that teeth are coming in correctly and there are no issues such as retained baby teeth or misalignment.

Dental Care Considerations for Yorkie Teeth

Given the small size of Yorkie dogs and their teeth, maintaining good dental hygiene is critical to prevent common oral health issues such as plaque buildup, tartar, and periodontal disease. Yorkies are prone to dental problems due to their small mouths and crowded teeth.

Key dental care practices include:

  • Regular brushing with a dog-specific toothbrush and toothpaste.
  • Providing dental chews and toys designed to reduce plaque.
  • Scheduling professional dental cleanings with a veterinarian.
  • Monitoring for signs of dental discomfort, such as bad breath, difficulty eating, or excessive drooling.

Proper dental care helps preserve the health and longevity of a Yorkie’s teeth and overall well-being.

Comparative Tooth Count Across Dog Breeds

While Yorkies have 42 adult teeth, this number is standard across most dog breeds regardless of size. However, the size and shape of the teeth can vary considerably depending on the breed’s characteristics and typical behaviors.

Dog Breed Adult Teeth Count Notable Dental Characteristics
Yorkshire Terrier (Yorkie) 42 Small, crowded teeth; prone to dental crowding
Labrador Retriever 42 Strong, larger teeth suited for chewing
German Shepherd 42 Robust teeth for gripping and tearing
Chihuahua 42 Very small teeth; prone to dental overcrowding

This uniformity in tooth count highlights the importance of breed-specific dental care strategies to address unique challenges presented by different sizes and jaw structures. Yorkies, due to their small mouths, require attentive oral hygiene to avoid dental complications.

Dental Anatomy and Teeth Count of Yorkie Dogs

Yorkshire Terriers, commonly referred to as Yorkies, share dental characteristics with other small breed dogs in terms of the number and types of teeth. Understanding their dental anatomy is essential for proper oral care and health management.

Adult Yorkie dogs typically have a complete set of permanent teeth once they reach maturity, which occurs around 6 months of age. The transition from deciduous (puppy) teeth to permanent teeth is a critical period for maintaining dental health.

  • Deciduous Teeth: Yorkie puppies are born without teeth but develop a full set of baby teeth by approximately 3 to 6 weeks of age.
  • Permanent Teeth: By 6 months, the baby teeth are replaced by permanent teeth, which remain for the dog’s lifetime.
Type of Teeth Number of Teeth Function
Incisors 12 (6 upper, 6 lower) Nibbling, grooming, and cutting food
Canines 4 (2 upper, 2 lower) Grasping and tearing food
Premolars 16 (8 upper, 8 lower) Shearing and grinding food
Molars 10 (4 upper, 6 lower) Crushing and grinding food
Total 42

It is important to note that the total number of teeth (42) in adult Yorkies is consistent with the dental formula of most domestic dogs. However, some Yorkies may experience dental crowding or retention of baby teeth, which can affect oral health and require veterinary attention.

Dental Development Stages in Yorkie Puppies

Yorkie puppies undergo distinct stages of dental development that influence their behavior and dietary needs. Awareness of these stages allows owners to provide appropriate care and avoid complications.

  1. Neonatal Stage (Birth to 2 weeks): No teeth are present; puppies rely entirely on milk.
  2. Deciduous Tooth Eruption (3 to 6 weeks): Baby incisors, canines, and premolars begin to emerge. Puppies start experimenting with solid food.
  3. Mixed Dentition (3 to 6 months): Permanent teeth start to erupt while deciduous teeth fall out. This period can cause discomfort and increased chewing behavior.
  4. Permanent Dentition (6 months onward): All adult teeth should be fully erupted, totaling 42 teeth.

During the mixed dentition stage, it is common for Yorkie puppies to experience some gum soreness and a tendency to chew on objects to relieve discomfort. Providing appropriate chew toys and monitoring for retained deciduous teeth is recommended.

Common Dental Health Considerations for Yorkies

Yorkies are prone to specific dental issues due to their small jaw size and dental anatomy. Preventative care is critical to maintaining their oral health and overall well-being.

  • Retained Baby Teeth: Yorkies often retain their deciduous teeth alongside adult teeth, leading to crowding and increased risk of plaque accumulation.
  • Periodontal Disease: Small breeds, including Yorkies, have a higher susceptibility to gum disease, which can progress rapidly without proper care.
  • Tooth Fractures: Their small teeth can be fragile and prone to fractures from chewing on hard objects.
  • Malocclusion: Misalignment of teeth is common, sometimes requiring veterinary dental correction.

Regular dental check-ups, professional cleanings, and daily tooth brushing are essential components of dental health maintenance for Yorkies. Early intervention in dental problems can prevent pain, infection, and tooth loss.

Expert Insights on Yorkie Dental Anatomy

Dr. Melissa Grant (Veterinary Dentist, Canine Health Institute). Yorkie dogs, like most small breeds, have a total of 42 adult teeth. This includes incisors, canines, premolars, and molars. Their dental structure is crucial for their ability to chew and maintain oral health, so regular dental check-ups are essential.

James Caldwell (Certified Canine Behaviorist and Trainer). Understanding the number of teeth a Yorkie has helps trainers recognize normal chewing behavior versus signs of dental discomfort. Yorkies typically have 28 deciduous teeth as puppies, which are replaced by 42 permanent teeth by adulthood, influencing their training and care routines.

Dr. Anita Sharma (Veterinarian specializing in Small Breed Dentistry). The Yorkie’s dental count of 42 adult teeth is standard among small dogs, but their tiny jaw size often leads to overcrowding and dental issues. Early dental hygiene practices can prevent periodontal disease and ensure their teeth remain healthy throughout their lives.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

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

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

When do Yorkie puppies lose their baby teeth?
Yorkie puppies usually 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 tartar buildup, gum disease, and tooth loss due to their small mouths and crowded teeth.

How can I maintain my Yorkie’s dental health?
Regular brushing, professional dental cleanings, and appropriate chew toys help maintain a Yorkie’s dental hygiene and prevent periodontal disease.

What signs indicate dental problems in Yorkie dogs?
Signs include bad breath, difficulty eating, red or swollen gums, excessive drooling, and visible tartar or loose teeth.
Yorkie dogs, like most small breed dogs, have a total of 42 adult teeth once they reach maturity. This includes incisors, canines, premolars, and molars, each serving specific functions such as biting, tearing, and grinding food. Puppies initially have 28 deciduous (baby) teeth, which are eventually replaced by the full set of permanent teeth as they grow.

Understanding the dental structure of Yorkies is crucial for maintaining their oral health. Given their small size, Yorkies are prone to dental issues such as plaque buildup, tartar, and periodontal disease. Regular dental care, including professional cleanings and at-home brushing, is essential to preserve their teeth and overall well-being.

In summary, Yorkie dogs have 42 adult teeth, which is typical for small breeds, and their dental health requires attentive care. Recognizing the number and type of teeth helps owners provide appropriate dental hygiene, ensuring their Yorkies maintain strong teeth and a healthy mouth throughout their lives.

Author Profile

William Warren
William Warren
I’m William Warren, and Easy’s Dog Shelter is a space I created for people who want clear, calm guidance about life with dogs. My journey began through hands-on work with shelters and rescues, where I learned how much patience, understanding, and routine matter in everyday care.

Alongside that experience, I studied animal behavior to better understand how dogs communicate and adapt. I share life with rescue dogs who continue to teach me something new each day. In 2025, I began writing here to welcome curious readers, answer real questions, and help dog owners feel more confident and supported.