Believe it or not, taking care of your dog’s teeth is as important as taking care of your own. According to the American Animal Hospital Association, nearly two-thirds of dog owners do not provide the veterinarian-recommended guidelines for dog dental care. Periodontal disease is the most common clinical condition in adult dogs, and most dogs have some form of the disease by the time they turn 3 years old.
Just like us, dogs can experience plaque build-up if we don’t take proper care of their teeth. This turns into tartar, which accumulates around the gum lines and causes irritation, and can eventually lead to gum inflammation (gingivitis), bone/soft tissue loss, and gum disease. Bacterial infection can also lead to tooth loss and complications of the heart, lung, or kidney as your dog ages. The good news is that, with regular dental care, these diseases are preventable.
The gold standard for dog oral care at home is brushing. Here are some tips for getting started:
Consistency is key. Brush your dog’s teeth at least 2 to 3 times a week. Once a day brushing is ideal. The better you are at keeping a regular routine, the easier it will be on your dog and the more likely he will start to respond positively to you brushing his teeth. It will also help you remember to keep his teeth clean and healthy as you start to commit to a regular cycle.
Between vet visits, be sure to check your dog for these important warning signs.
If you notice any of these warning signs in your dog, make an appointment with your vet. Your vet may recommend a professional dental cleaning, which begins with blood work to determine if your dog is healthy enough to undergo anesthesia. If he is, your vet will administer anesthesia to him and begin a comprehensive cleaning. This includes:
Specifically formulated dental dog foods and treats can slow the formation of tartar and avoid the onset of dental disease. Science Diet Adult Oral Care dog food provides precisely balanced nutrition along with scrubbing teeth, freshening breath, and reducing plaque, tartar, and stain build up. Hill's Prescription Diet t/d Canine dog food is an option to consider for smaller dogs. It offers nutrition for your dog’s teeth and is available in small bites.
Dr. Sarah Wooten graduated from UC Davis School of Veterinary Medicine in 2002. A member of the American Society of Veterinary Journalists, Dr. Wooten divides her professional time between small animal practice in Greeley, Colorado, public speaking on associate issues, leadership, and client communication, and writing. She enjoys camping with her family, skiing, SCUBA, and participating in triathlons.
Supports healthy joints, immune system, digestion, lean muscle & beautiful coat
Science Diet's breakthrough nutrition supports ultimate digestive well-being & healthy microbiome
Clinically proven kibble technology to reduce plaque & tartar build-up
Hill's Science Diet Sensitive Stomach & Skin Small & Mini dry dog food is tailored nutrition for Small & Mini dogs while being gentle on stomachs. Nourishes skin & promotes a lustrous coat.
Chicken & Barley recipe with precisely balanced nutrition to support mobility and muscle mass for older dogs
Chicken & Rice Stew with great taste and precisely balanced nutrition to support 5 essential building blocks for lifelong health
Science Diet's breakthrough nutrition supports ultimate digestive well-being & healthy microbiome. Delicious food in a small bite size
Hill's Science Diet Sensitive Stomach & Skin dry dog food is gentle on stomachs while nourishing skin & promoting a lustrous coat.
Tailored nutrition for less active adult Small & Mini dogs requiring a low calorie food to help maintain a healthy weight & lifestyle. Specially made with nibble size kibble.
Supports healthy brain, eye, muscle, bone & immune system development in growing puppies
A delicious complement to the nutrition of Science Diet dry dog food
Over 70% of dogs lost weight within 10 weeks when fed this nutrition
Supports energy level & beautiful coat. Helps keep immune system, heart & kidneys healthy
Chicken & barley entree with great taste and precisely balanced nutrition to support 5 essential building blocks for lifelong health
Supports healthy immune system, digestion, lean muscle & beautiful coat
Turkey & Barley recipe with precisely balanced nutrition to keep dogs active and healthy
Supports digestive health, nourishes skin and promotes a lustrous coat
Hill's Science Diet Sensitive Stomach & Skin dry dog food is gentle on stomachs while nourishing skin & promoting a lustrous coat.
Supports energy level & luxurious coat in Small & Mini dogs. Helps keep immune system, heart & kidneys healthy.
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Our low calorie formula helps you control your dog's weight. It's packed with high-quality protein for building lean muscles, and made with purposeful ingredients for a flavorful, nutritious meal. Clinically proven antioxidants, Vitamin C+E, help promote a healthy immune system.
Our low calorie formula helps you control your dog's weight. It's packed with high-quality protein for building lean muscles, and made with purposeful ingredients for a flavorful, nutritious meal. Clinically proven antioxidants, Vitamin C+E, help promote a healthy immune system.
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