A Basic Guide to the Dental Care of Your Dogs—What to Know

Did you know that many dogs show signs of gum disease by the time they’re four years old?

Many owners dedicate a lot of time, energy, and money to a dog’s health by buying high-quality food, regular vet checkups, and daily exercise. While this is well and good, many tend to forget to look into their oral health too!
Dogs aren’t as prone to cavities as humans, but they can still develop tartar buildup, gingivitis, and other oral health problems. Toothaches and sore gums cause a lot of pain and discomfort in your dog. It can lead to lethargy, loss of appetite, and difficulty sleeping—which is definitely painful for your beloved pet to go through.

Thankfully, all these problems can easily be avoided. Regular tooth brushing and trips to the vet for deep cleanings are all you need to keep your dog’s teeth in tip-top shape.

Signs of Oral Disease in Dogs

Healthy dog teeth are fully intact, clean, and free of plaque and tartar. Gums should be pink (though some breeds have black gums, too), and tongues should be moist, with no lumps or cuts.
Now that you know what a healthy mouth should look like, you should inspect your pet for any signs of oral health problems. The most common symptoms are:

Bad breath – Your dog’s breath will never be minty fresh, but if you smell something especially offensive, it may be a sign of tooth decay or gastrointestinal problems.
Swollen gums – Inflammation along the gum line is one of the early signs of gingivitis.
Excessive drooling – Your dog might be drooling a lot if he has a loose or abscessed tooth that needs to be extracted.

The Most Effective Dental Routine for Dogs

Ideally, you should introduce dental care to puppies. It takes a bit of time for dogs to get used to someone prodding their teeth, so it’s best to start young. However, if your dog is already an adult, don’t stress—it’s never too late to start!

Get a toothbrush and toothpaste made especially for canines; these should be available in your local pet store. Sit your dog down after a good bout of exercise so that he’s more likely to sit still. Stay relaxed and wait for your dog to get used to the routine. Slow and steady wins the race, and plying your dog with gentleness and treats after a brushing session will get him to open up to you in no time.

Aim for brushing sessions at least three to four times every week, and schedule full, deep cleanings with the vet every six months. Your vet will clean the gum line, polish teeth, and scrub away tartar in ways you will not be able to at home, which is why it’s still important to have this done!

The Best Treats for Dog Teeth

Dry, crunchy food is much better for your dog’s teeth because it’s less likely to form plaque and tartar. On the other hand, soft food can stick to a dog’s teeth and cause decay—which is something you won’t want to handle.

Pet Naturals of Vermont Breath Bites Dog Chews

Chew toys and rawhide bones can strengthen gums and teeth as well. Spending a bit of time gnawing a good bone can get rid of dirt and plaque. Chewing is an excellent outlet for your dog’s built-up energy and reduces his stress levels, too.

Conclusion

Good dental care starts at home. It may seem like a hassle, as it involves a steep learning curve for you and your dog, but proper oral health maintenance plays a big part in keeping your dog healthy and happy. Make it a habit with your dog as soon as you can, and you’ll both be happy for a long time to come.

Do you need to stock up on oral health supplies for your pup? Earthwise Pet Supply & Grooming is your neighborhood nutrition center, wellness spa, and pet supply store in Marysville, Washington. We specialize in natural pet food, dog grooming services, pet nutrition consultations, and more. Visit our store or contact us today!