This blog will cover the significance of oral health for dogs, including information on dental disease signs, prevention methods, and tooth brushing techniques. Additionally, it will mention the benefits of using GoSmile dental chews in maintaining oral hygiene.
Dental Disease:
Maintaining proper dental health is crucial for your dog’s overall well-being. Just like humans, dogs can suffer from dental problems that can lead to pain, infection, and other serious health issues if left untreated. Understanding the signs of dental disease in dogs is essential for early detection and effective prevention.
Signs of Dental Disease:
Bad Breath (Halitosis):
Persistent foul breath in your dog can indicate the presence of dental problems. It’s often one of the earliest signs to watch for.
Red or Bleeding Gums:
Inflammation and bleeding around the gums are common indicators of gum disease, a prevalent dental issue in dogs.
Loose, Broken, or Discoloured Teeth:
Changes in the condition or colour of your dog’s teeth may suggest underlying dental problems or damage.
Drooling:
Excessive drooling can be a sign of dental pain or discomfort. If your dog suddenly starts drooling more than usual, it’s worth investigating further.
Crying While Eating:
If your dog cries or hesitates while eating, it could be due to oral pain. This discomfort can occur when they attempt to chew or bite down on food.
Difficulty Chewing:
If your dog is having difficulty chewing their food or shows reluctance to eat hard treats, it may be a sign of dental issues. This could be due to tooth pain or discomfort while biting down.
Pawing at the Mouth:
If you notice your dog frequently pawing at their mouth or face, it could indicate oral pain. They may be trying to alleviate the discomfort they are in.
Key Points to Prevent Dental Disease:
Daily Tooth Brushing:
To establish a tooth brushing routine for your dog, start at a young age. Utilise a toothbrush and toothpaste specifically designed for dogs. Approach the task with gentleness and patience, as your dog may require time to adapt to the routine.
Appropriate Dental Chews:
GoSmile dental chews are an excellent addition to your dog’s dental care routine. These chews are designed to promote oral health, reduce plaque, and freshen breath. Make sure to choose dental chews that are not harder than your dog’s teeth and can be marked with a fingernail.
Commercial Dental Diet:
When choosing a diet for your dog, it is recommended to select a commercial dental diet that is specifically designed to promote oral health by minimising plaque and tartar accumulation.
Routine Dental Checks:
It is recommended to schedule regular dental check-ups with a veterinarian or dental specialist to allow for professional assessments and proper dental care.
Avoid Groomer Dentistry:
It is advised not seek dental work at groomers, as their methods may not effectively clean below the gum line or reach all areas of the teeth. This can be misleading, as the visible surface of the teeth may appear clean, but dental disease can still occur and cause damage. This can also affect the surrounding tissues, including the gums.
Oral health in dogs should be a priority.
Oral dental care at home every day is an important and essential part of your dog’s oral health and overall health.
Key Points:
- Approximately 80% of dogs above the age of 3 years old have some level of dental disease.
- Dental disease is a common issue that affects dogs of all ages. However, as dogs get older, they become more prone to dental problems. Just like humans, dogs can experience tooth decay, gum disease, and other oral health issues as they age. One of the main reasons why dental disease increases with age is the buildup of plaque and tartar on teeth.
- Certain breeds of dogs, particularly small breeds, are more prone to dental disease.
8 Breeds Prone to Dental Disease:
- Collies
- Pugs
- Yorkies
- Chihuahuas
- DachshundsÂ
- Boxers
- Shih Tzus
- Labradors
- Brushing your teeth once a day is recommended to prevent and slow down the progression of dental disease. Not brushing regularly does not provide any benefits to oral health.
- A well-balanced and comprehensive diet for dogs contributes to maintaining oral health.
Dental chews, such as Blue Pets GoSmile, have become a popular option for pet owners looking to maintain their dog’s dental health. These chewy treats are not only delicious but also effective in combating dental diseases in dogs. Regular use of dental chews can significantly reduce the risk of oral issues and improve your furry friend’s overall well-being. - It is important to remember that teeth are important for dogs and they greatly benefit from daily care and attention, just like our own teeth.
- Dogs may continue eating and wagging their tails even when experiencing oral pain and discomfort, as it is a survival instinct. However, it is important to be aware of signs such as bad breath, difficulty eating or chewing certain foods or chews, and red gums.
Tooth Brushing in Dogs:
- To introduce tooth brushing to your dog, start by gradually allowing them to familiarise themselves with the taste of toothbrush and toothpaste. Patience is key.
- Selecting a calm period, like after meals, to clean your dog’s teeth can be beneficial for both of you. It may assist in establishing a routine.
- It is recommended to use toothpaste specifically formulated for dogs and a toothbrush designed to reach all areas of their mouth easily.
- After each brushing session, it is recommended to reward your dog with their favourite GoSmile dental chew to create a positive association.
- It is important to brush all of your dog’s teeth, including those in hard-to-reach areas.
- If a tooth seems painful, loose, or bleeds while brushing, it is important to consult your vet right away to properly address the matter.
Watch Dr Bob's game changing video on how to brush your Dogs teeth.
Conclusion
February is dental mount, let’s make it a special one for our furry friends .
So in summary, oral health is extremely important for dogs. Taking care of their teeth and gums is vital for their overall health and well-being. This blog provides important information on signs of dental disease, prevention strategies, and effective tooth brushing techniques to help you keep your dog’s oral health in excellent condition.
Identifying dental disease in dogs involves observing signs like bad breath, red gums, loose teeth, drooling, and difficulty eating. Early detection and timely intervention are crucial. Maintaining your dog’s dental health involves daily tooth brushing, providing appropriate dental chews like GoSmile, utilising commercial dental diets, and scheduling regular dental check-ups with your veterinarian.
February is dental mount, let’s make it a special one for our furry friends .
