Dental Health Care For Your Dog

Just like humans, dogs need a regular dental routine to help them live a happy and healthy life. The build-up of plaque and tartar can cause gingivitis, bleeding and pain, which left untreated can contribute to certain forms of heart, liver and kidney problems. Prevention is always better than a cure,  so we have a few easy hints and tips that can help prevent these dreaded dental concerns and keep those pearly whites looking and feeling their very best!

Like us, dogs can encounter toothaches, gum diseases and of course, the dreaded, smelly dog breath. While dog breath is common, it isn’t normal and is the easiest way to identify the first signs of dental disease. 

Signs of dental disease in dogs

• Bad breath

• Redness or inflammation of gums

• Having difficulties eating or loss of appetite

• Discolouration or build up of plaque and tartar on teeth

• Swelling under the eye

• Pawing at the mouth

• Lumps or bleeding in the mouth

Steps for dog dental care

Dogs need a regular daily dental hygiene routine. Maintaining dental health is essential to your dog's overall well-being and in most cases, dental disease is preventable with the right care.

1. Regular dental check up

If you can’t remember the last time your dog had a dental check up, then it's probably time to visit the vet. Your local vet can perform dental examinations and provide prevention and treatment plans.

2. Regular brushing

That’s right brushing. The most effective way to remove plaque from your dog’s teeth is to brush them, using a special pet toothbrush and toothpaste designed for use on animals. Brushing must be introduced to your dog slowly. You can begin by rubbing their lips and gums with your finger before introducing a finger brush or toothbrush. When the brush is first introduced, start by only brushing a few teeth at a time, and eventually work up to include all teeth.

3. Dental treats and chews

A good long chew can help scrape away plaque and dirt, and most dogs are happy to comply. Bones, chews, large strips of raw meat and crunchy biscuits, can be given to your dog daily to help encourage chewing and to prevent formation of plaque and tartar. Big carrots are also beneficial and are very healthy for your dog too.

Check out our range of Pet Pantry range of cookies & chews. 

We also stock delicious and healthy Chicken flavoured Dental Chews, Pigs Ears and Lamb Ears - all totally irresistible to your pooch!

Note: Never give harder items, such as hooves or bones from steak, ribs or ham shanks, as these can fracture teeth.

4. Chew toys

Many dogs enjoy chewing artificial bones or chew toys. Remember to choose a chew toy large enough so that it won’t present as a choking hazard. We have a full range of Dog chew toys to suit puppies through to the super sized chewers.

If you are in doubt of your dog’s dental health, book in a check up with your local vet. Prevention is always better than a cure.