Dental Care in Dogs

Brushing your teeth is just as important for pets as it is for us humans. Dental care in dogs is often underestimated, although veterinarians have recommended daily cleaning of dogs’ teeth for years. The ancestors of the domestic dog could care for their teeth by tearing and eating, but the dog food from the supermarket does not have the same additional function. In this article, we tell you everything about dental care in dogs and methods that are really effective.

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Dental Problems in (Young) Dogs

Dental care for dogs is already important for young four-legged friends: Because it often happens that even young dogs have to struggle with dental problems. Often these are problems with the tooth fracture, which arose from their ferocity. In addition, young dogs often have misalignments that can damage other teeth or even the palate. If these problems are present, the misalignment must be corrected urgently. Basically, it is recommended to get the dog used to teeth cleaning as a puppy so that this does not pose a problem in adulthood.

In order to get the four-legged friend used to it, it can be shown in a playful way that it is okay if its mouth is opened. This can be helpful not only for dental care but also for detecting injuries or diseases in the dog’s mouth. In principle, brushing your teeth can be practiced. The first thing to do is to massage the dog’s gums with your finger. If the four-legged friend allows it, exactly the same can be done with a toothbrush. However, it should be noted that no strong pressure is applied when brushing your teeth. Patience also plays a big role. This is the only way the dog can get used to daily dental care.

Plaque and Tartar in Dog Teeth

Dental problems often start with the formation of plaque and tartar. The plaque describes a layer that is deposited on the teeth by food particles, mucus, or bacteria. Because the layer is barely visible, many dog owners don’t even notice the plaque. However, most dogs have bad breath from the buildup of bacteria.

If the layer is not removed, there is a risk that the plaque will develop into tartar. If tartar is present, it must be removed urgently by a veterinarian. Simply brushing your teeth is not enough here, as tartar is very hard. If this is not removed, more and more bacteria can accumulate and inflammation or other diseases can be triggered.

Effects of Bad Teeth in Dogs

The older the dog is, the higher the likelihood of dental problems. Dental problems must be treated immediately, as in most cases they are very painful and can even develop to the extent that damage to health occurs. Typical effects of bad teeth are, for example, bad breath, gingivitis, visible tooth roots, wobbly teeth, or even tooth loss. In the worst case, vital organs can become inflamed.

It is important to note that in most cases, dogs will eat past the pain as they are acting on their survival instincts. Therefore, dental problems cannot necessarily be recognized by eating behavior. For this reason, it is advisable to have regular dental check-ups by the veterinarian.

How Can I Tell If My Dog has Dental Problems?

There are several symptoms that indicate dental problems. However, it is often the case that dogs develop bad breath when they have problems. Some dogs also show hesitation in eating, but this is not the case for every dog. Due to the survival instinct, most dogs would eat despite being in great pain.

Prevention – Proper Dental Care in Dogs

Proper dental care can prevent the above problems. Proper teeth cleaning can also protect a dog’s overall health. It is effective to feed the dog high-quality dry food. This promotes the chewing process and tooth abrasion and strengthens the teeth. Chewing is particularly important for the digestive process.

There are also types of food that contain tartar prophylaxis. Prophylaxis supports dental care and prevents dental problems. The feed should preferably be grain-free, as carbohydrates and sugar promote tartar. Cottage cheese, low-fat quark, or normal cheese is also beneficial. These foods provide high-quality proteins, calcium, and vitamin D3. Nevertheless, it must be noted that these foods are only fed to the dog in moderation.

In addition to the food that cares for the teeth, chewing products or certain toys can also help to clean the teeth. By constantly chewing on the products or toys, the teeth are cleaned and cared for. Dogs must also have constant access to fresh and clean water because regular rinsing of the oral cavity does not make the dog’s saliva viscous. In addition, it is important that the teeth are already cared for in puppyhood. The teeth are thus supported and strengthened right from the start.

Effective Dental Care in Dogs – This Really Helps

Brush teeth

Basically, it is recommended that dogs get used to brushing their teeth when they are puppies, otherwise, the process can be extremely difficult. Many adult dogs can no longer get used to brushing their teeth. Dog toothbrushes can be used to clean teeth. However, these can be too big for small dogs. For this reason, finger toothbrushes and tooth clothes have now been developed that can be used as an alternative for cleaning teeth.

Toothpaste that has been specially developed for dogs may only be used for cleaning. Because the dog toothpaste has a meaty taste in most cases, the dog can get used to the brushing process more easily. When brushing your teeth, you don’t have to open your entire set of teeth. It only needs to lift the lips slightly to be able to clean the outside of the teeth. Cleaning the inside is generally not necessary. Teeth should be brushed at least twice a week, but daily cleaning is better.

Important: If you have dental problems or have recently undergone dental treatment, you should never brush your teeth. In these situations, brushing the teeth can be very painful for the dog, which can lead to future refusal to brush.

How Often Do I Have to Brush My Dog’s Teeth?

Dog’s teeth should be brushed at least twice a week. However, it would be ideal to clean your teeth every day.

Cling Toothpaste

If brushing your teeth is not allowed, alternative toothpaste can be used. This simply has to be applied to the cheeks in the oral cavity and massaged in. This method removes plaque and encourages saliva production.

Chewing Sticks

Dental care sticks are not only effective but also particularly pleasant for the dog. Most chewing sticks are also suitable for dogs with food intolerances. However, it is important that the chewing sticks are added to the daily feed ration, otherwise, there is a risk that the dog will become overweight.

Special Lining

To keep the dog’s teeth healthy, food has been developed that cares for and strengthens the dog’s teeth. In most cases, the individual pieces of food are large and, thanks to their structure, allow the teeth to be cleaned at the same time. When the food is bitten, it does not immediately crumble. This rubs the granules on the teeth and the plaque is removed. The ingredients also have a positive effect on the teeth, since most types of food contain calcium, which is responsible for strengthening the teeth.

Supplements in Feed or Water

Certain additives can also be added to food or water. These ensure that bacteria are fought and bad breath is eliminated. Most liquid supplements for drinking water contain chlorhexidine. Additives based on algae are often used for the feed.

Toys

In the meantime, even dog toys have been developed those clean teeth while playing. Many toys can also be given to the dog in combination with toothpaste.

What Dental Care for Dogs?

Dog toothbrushes, dog toothpaste, chewing sticks, special food, or dental toys can help to care for the dog’s teeth.

Then a Veterinarian Should Be Consulted

It is important that the dog’s teeth are checked regularly by a veterinarian to prevent dental problems. Regular dental check-ups are particularly important for puppies up to the age of 6 months. However, if you see these signs, you should see a vet immediately:

inflamed gums;
bleeding gums;
yellowish-brownish residues;
excessive saliva production;
hesitant eating behavior;
chew on one side;
strong bad breath;
scratching at the snout.