Bear is a shih tsu/poodle mix, 10 years old. He has had his teeth cleaned twice. Small dogs are more prone to tartar and bad breath because of the way the back of their mouths are formed. My daughter's dog has also had her teeth cleaned. It's not a serious procedure as long as the anesthesia is done right. The dog goes in before 9AM and can go home the same day. The cost is about $60. Brushing helps avoid this, as does feeding dry kibble and the dental toys like ropes.

[This message has been edited by mruffruff (edited March 29, 2001).]