Dog dental care – from A to Z

A post by veterinarian Sanja Polz

Dogs are more than just pets for many people – they are family members, loyal companions and sometimes the best friends you could ask for. Their health is therefore particularly important to us, and that includes their dental health. Unfortunately, many dogs suffer from problems with their teeth and mouths.

Despite the prevalence of dental issues in dogs, the importance of proper dental care is often overlooked. From bad breath to serious gum disease, dental health should be high on every dog owner's grooming list. Here's why proper dental care is so important and what you can do to help your dog with bad breath.

Do you have to brush your dog's teeth?

The simple answer is: no, you don't have to – but it's a very good idea! Dental problems are common in dogs: studies show that over 75% of dogs over the age of three have dental problems. A clear indicator that dental care is necessary is, for example, if the dog smells from the mouth. This smell can not only be unpleasant for us humans, but is also often a sign of inflammation and deposits.

When and how often should you brush your dog's teeth?

Dental health should start in puppyhood. Dogs have milk teeth that fall out after about six months. At this point, it is a good idea to gently introduce your dog to the tooth brushing routine. Brushing daily, or even three times a week, can reduce tartar by up to 70%. A clear sign that it is time to brush your dog's teeth is if your dog has bad breath or reddened gums or other signs of gum inflammation.

I am often asked what it was like for our dogs' ancestors, the wolves. Did they brush their teeth? Of course not. However, they did eat a little differently than our dogs do today. Tearing their prey apart every day, biting through fur, layers of fat, bones, tissue and entrails was the natural way for wolves to clean their teeth.

Periodontal disease

While tooth decay is rare in dogs, many suffer from tartar and the resulting periodontal disease. Small dog breeds are particularly susceptible because their teeth are often closer together. When the spaces between the teeth are missing, plaque builds up more easily, ultimately leading to inflammation. Regular brushing and the use of chewy dog treats can prevent these problems, but sometimes veterinary intervention is necessary to pull teeth or remove plaque if dental health is severely compromised.

The right food for dental problems

Fortunately, our dogs don't have to hunt for their food like wolves, but are served it comfortably. For dogs with few teeth or a toothache, wet food is ideal because it can be easily mashed on the palate and does not need to be chewed. For dogs that refuse wet food, dry food is an alternative because the stomach acid is strong enough to digest even unchewed food.

For dogs that still have teeth, dry food can help to rub away dental plaque. Make sure that your dog chews enough – especially with large breeds, which tend to gulp their food, otherwise there is little mechanical abrasion of the teeth.

What causes bad breath in dogs?

If your dog has bad breath, it may be an indication of dental problems. If your dog's breath is unpleasant, it may be a sign of tartar, gum inflammation or periodontitis. Indigestion or food stuck between the teeth can also cause unpleasant dog breath.

My dog has bad breath – what can I do?

Even if we offer our dog a chew bone every day, the difference to a wolf remains clear. That's why it's important to use a toothbrush to help keep their teeth healthy. Regular brushing, chewing and the use of supportive treats can help minimise odour and promote dental health.

How can I improve my dog's dental care?

• High-quality food: Make sure your dog has a balanced diet that supports their dental health.
• Offer chewing fun: Provide regular chewing experiences with chewy toys or special toys that promote tooth abrasion.
• Brushing teeth: Incorporate regular brushing into your dog's grooming routine.
• Check-ups: Arrange regular visits to the vet to check on dental health.
• Supportive treats: Choose treats with valuable ingredients that can promote dental health.

Tip: Treats with a function can also help your dog if he suffers from joint pain, digestive problems or itching.

When is a visit to the vet necessary?

Regularly checking your dog's mouth can help to detect dental problems early. Pay particular attention to the following warning signs:

• Redness of the gums, which could indicate gum disease
• Persistent bad breath, especially if it has a putrid, putrefactive odour
• tooth discolouration or visible deposits

If your dog is bleeding from the mouth, has severe tartar or the bad smell does not improve despite measures taken, a visit to the vet is advisable. Dental problems often develop because the first warning signs are overlooked or underestimated. One of the main causes of bad breath and gum inflammation is insufficient dental care.

Conclusion

Dog dental care is more than just cosmetic. It contributes significantly to a dog's overall well-being and can help prevent serious health problems. With regular dental care, chewy toys and a balanced diet, you can keep your dog healthy and happy – from puppyhood to old age. DOG'S LOVE Smart Snacks Smile and other chewy toys can play an important role here.

If you notice that your dog's breath is coming from his mouth or shows signs of gum disease, it's time to take action. With the right products and a little patience, dental care can be easily integrated into your daily routine.

If your dog suffers from joint pain, digestive problems or itching, we invite you to discover valuable information and tips in our other articles. This way, you can provide targeted help for your four-legged friend and improve their quality of life.