While it can be smelly, stinky, unsavory, and sometimes downright putrid, doggy breath is common, and, in fact, it offers us a glimpse into a dog’s oral health. Periodontal health, which includes teeth and gums, can fluctuate throughout your dog’s life. When your dog’s periodontal health is solid and looked after, various other parts of their health can also experience positive benefits. But when their oral health starts to waver, your dog can face a number of other health complications—complications that include more than just broken teeth, swollen gums, and smelly doggy breath.
In this guide to dog dental care, we’ll help you explore the unique and intricate relationship between your dog’s teeth and gums and the rest of their health. We’ll show you a few at-home tips to brush your dog’s teeth effectively, while looking after their gums; we’ll even explain why so many doggy parents are adding dental health supplements with routine brushing to care for their dog’s periodontal health.
But first, let’s explore why it’s important to sit your dog down and discuss their rank doggy breath.
Why Doggie Dental Health Matters
Believe it or not, your dog’s dental health impacts a number of different areas in their furry little bodies, and it all stems from a common concern that can arise in dogs as young as two years old.
Periodontal Disease
The main concern facing your dog’s dental health is periodontal disease. In fact, the American Kennel Club (AKC) has noted that up to 90% of dogs over the age of two have some level of periodontal disease. This dental disease centers around your dog’s teeth and gums, stemming from plaque build-up. Just like with us, our dogs can acquire plaque on their teeth as they eat, drink, and chew. Food particles and bacteria can burrow around their teeth, and if left untreated, these compounds can harden over time, becoming a tough, caulk-like substance called tartar.
The earliest stage of periodontal disease is inflammation around the gums, called gingivitis. If the condition is left untreated, it can seep deeper down into the jaw, affecting the bone and potentially causing tooth loss. While smaller dogs are more prone to periodontal disease, bigger breeds can catch it, too, typically later in their lives. Periodontal disease doesn’t just affect your dog’s oral health; studies have also noted that as periodontal disease worsens, dogs are more likely to develop severe kidney disease.
If you believe your dog may be affected by periodontal disease, it is always best to seek professional guidance. A veterinarian will help you find the best corrective treatment and know when to recommend veterinary dentistry.
Signs of Doggy Dental Dilemmas
Alongside rank doggy breath, there are a few not-so-obvious signs of dental concerns in dogs, according to the AKC.
- Inflamed gums
- Bleeding gums
- Loose teeth
- Missing teeth
- Decreased appetite
- Lack of interest in chewing hard food or toys
- Preference for chewing on one side of the mouth
- Excessive drooling
- Visible tooth pain when chewing
These are just some physical cues that may point to dental dilemmas. It’s always best to consult your veterinarian for advice and next steps in your dog’s wellness journey.
At-Home Remedies: Routine Brushing
One way to help prevent dental dilemmas from taking root is to brush your dog’s teeth consistently. Yes, just like you and me, your dog needs daily brushing to help keep their pearly whites healthy. While many owners don’t brush their dog’s teeth enough, if at all, most vets advise that weekly brushing is better than no brushing and daily brushing is best overall.
But how exactly do you sit your dog down, reach for a toothbrush, and scrub away built-up plaque?
How to Brush Your Dog’s Teeth
First and foremost, do not use human toothpaste on a dog. There are blends specifically formulated with dog-approved flavors, like chicken, bacon, and fish. (Sounds appetizing in toothpaste form, doesn’t it?)
Once you have dog toothpaste in hand, you’ll need a dog-friendly toothbrush. It’s best to find one that fits your dog’s size. Small breeds will need a toothbrush with a smaller head; bigger dogs will need a toothbrush that resembles our own. After you have the right, size-specific dog toothbrush, you’ll need to wrangle in your dog, get them to sit, and slowly introduce them to the toothbrush and toothpaste. Let them sniff the brush and get a little taste of the toothpaste before plunging into the activity. If your dog is not used to having their teeth brushed, you’ll need to slowly introduce them to the sensation.
Next, apply the toothpaste on the brush and slowly open your dog’s mouth. If your dog doesn’t like the brush, apply the toothpaste to your finger, and see if you can gently massage your dog’s teeth and gums. You really only need to clean the outside of their teeth; their tongue does a great job at cleaning the backs of their teeth. Carefully run the bristles over your dog’s teeth. You’ll just need to do this back and forth a few times on either side. It’s best to repeat this activity daily and reward your pup with treats and positive affirmations.
At-Home Remedies: Dog Dental Supplements
While nothing can solely replace daily brushing, certain dog supplements can help fortify your pet’s dental health, helping you go further than brushing alone!
Dental Health Dog Chews
Made with a natural enzyme blend to neutralize plaque and oral bacteria, our Dental Health Dog Chews use a targeted formula to deliver fresh breath and periodontal support. Plus, these chews contain P-6 Probiotics that help aid digestion and gut health, all wrapped in a refreshing natural spearmint flavor.
The Secret: Focus on Consistent Dental Care
The secret to helping support your dog’s dental health is consistent, daily care. Just like with your own teeth, your dog’s chompers need daily maintenance to keep their smile healthy and bright. So, find time to sit your dog down and gently brush their teeth with dog-approved toothpaste. And be sure to add a dental supplement to round out your dog’s daily dental care.
Parting Thoughts
Brushing your dog’s teeth at home may sound difficult, and for many pups, it is. But this simple daily step can have far-reaching benefits for your dog’s daily health and well-being. Adding a dental dog supplement to their daily routine can help fortify their periodontal health, fight plaque, and keep their chompers in check.
If you’re concerned about your dog’s dental health, it’s always best to consult a veterinary professional to discuss your dog’s next steps.
