Keeping your dog's teeth clean is about more than just fresh breath—it's a crucial part of their overall health and can save you money in the long run. Dental problems are common in dogs and can lead to serious health issues if left untreated. Regular tooth brushing is one of the simplest and most effective ways to prevent these problems. By investing a little time each day to brush your dog's teeth, you can help avoid costly veterinary procedures and ensure your furry friend stays healthy and happy. This guide will explore the importance of proactive dental care, the benefits of regular tooth brushing, common dental issues in dogs, and practical tips for maintaining your dog's oral health.
How Common is Dental Disease?
Dental disease is one of the most prevalent health issues in dogs. It can affect dogs of all ages and breeds with varying degrees of severity. It's currently reported that 75% of dogs in Australia (and 80% of small breed dogs) will have some form of dental disease by the age of 3 years old.
The incidence of dental disease increases significantly in senior dogs, making regular dental care even more critical as dogs age.
“In puppies, we can see conformation issues in around 1 in 4 puppies. In adulthood, we will see about 25% with dental disease and another 25% needing better home care plans. In senior dogs, that number increases significantly.”
— Dr Jane Miller
Risks of Poor Dental Health
Neglecting your dog's dental health can lead to serious consequences that affect their overall well-being. Poor dental hygiene often results in pain and discomfort due to inflammation and infection. Left untreated, dental issues can escalate into more severe health problems.
Main Risks
- Pain and Discomfort: Dental disease can cause significant pain, but dogs will often continue to eat even with a mouth full of rotting teeth. This hidden pain can make it difficult for your dog to enjoy life, as they may endure discomfort without showing obvious signs.
- Infections: Infections in the mouth can spread to other parts of the body, leading to systemic health issues.
- Immune System Strain: Ongoing inflammation from dental problems puts constant pressure on the immune system, weakening your dog's overall health.
- Organ Damage: Bacteria from dental disease can enter the bloodstream and affect vital organs, including the heart, liver, and kidneys.
Poor dental health reflects an unhealthy body overall. Regular dental care is crucial in preventing these severe complications and ensuring your dog’s comfort and longevity.
Breed-Specific Dental Issues
Certain dog breeds are more prone to dental problems due to their anatomical structure and genetic predispositions. Understanding these breed-specific issues can help in providing targeted care and prevention.
Brachycephalic Breeds: Dogs with short muzzles, such as Bulldogs, Pugs, and Shih Tzus, often suffer from overcrowding of teeth. This overcrowding can quickly lead to periodontal disease. We also see gingival hyperplasia more commonly in the brachycephalic breeds. Thus, making it crucial to monitor their dental health closely.
Toy Breeds: Small breeds like Toy Poodles are particularly susceptible to dental disease regardless of the quality of their home care. These breeds often require professional dental cleanings every six months, similar to human dental care, to manage plaque and tartar buildup effectively.
By understanding the specific dental risks associated with your dog's breed, you can take proactive steps to prevent dental problems and ensure your dog maintains a healthy mouth and overall well-being.
Tooth Brushing: Key to Dental and Overall Health
One of the most effective ways to maintain your dog's dental health is through regular tooth brushing. This practice helps remove plaque and prevent tartar buildup, which can lead to gum disease and tooth loss. Despite its importance, only about 7% of pet parents regularly brush their dog's teeth, while around 80% of dogs will need some form of dental surgery in their lifetime. By keeping your dog's teeth clean through tooth brushing, you can significantly reduce the risk of these common dental problems.
How to Brush Your Dog’s Teeth
Brushing your dog's teeth is a vital part of maintaining their dental and overall health. It helps prevent plaque buildup, reduces the risk of gum disease, and ensures your dog stays comfortable and happy. Here’s a step-by-step guide to get started with brushing your dog's teeth:
1. Introduce the Toothbrush Gradually: Start by gently touching your dog's lips with the toothbrush. Reward them with a high-value treat each time to create a positive association. This helps your dog get used to the presence of the toothbrush without feeling threatened.
2. Touch a Tooth: Once your dog is comfortable with the toothbrush near their mouth, try touching a tooth with the brush. Follow this with a treat to reinforce positive behaviour. This step helps your dog get used to the sensation of the brush on their teeth.
3. Slowly Build Up: Very slowly increase the time you spend brushing. Start with just a few seconds and gradually work up to a full brushing session. Use treats for positive reinforcement at each step. This gradual process is crucial for ensuring your dog remains calm and cooperative. It can take months, so be patient!
4. Choose the Right Tools: Use a toothbrush designed for dogs and toothpaste specifically formulated for dogs. Do not use human toothpaste as it can be harmful to dogs. Dog-specific toothpaste comes in flavours like poultry and beef, which can make the process more enjoyable for your pet.
5. Establish a Routine: Aim to brush your dog's teeth daily. Consistency is key to maintaining good oral hygiene. Regular brushing helps prevent plaque buildup and keeps your dog's breath fresh.
By following these steps and being patient, you can establish a successful dental routine for your dog. Remember, it may take months for your dog to become fully comfortable with toothbrushing, so persistence and positive reinforcement are essential.
Browse our vet-recommended dog toothbrushes
Petosan OralCleaner Finger Cloth
Petosan OralCleaner Finger Cloth is a reusable, antibacterial microfibre finger brush which removes plaque and bacteria from your dog's mouth. It is easier to use and provides better cleaning than finger toothbrushes. The Finger Cloth is an ideal way to start toothbrushing your dog.
Petosan Complete Dental Kit for Dogs
Petosan Dental Care Kit comes with Double-Headed Toothbrush, Toothpaste and Fingerbrush Microfiber Oral Cleaner. It has everything you need to start a brushing regimen with your puppy or dog. The 70 grams tube of tasty poultry flavour toothpaste contains pyrophosphates to help control tartar.
What's included:
- Petosan Double-Headed Pet Toothbrush
- Petosan Toothpaste (70 grams tube of tasty poultry flavour)
(20 gr (0.7-ounce) for toy dog kit) - Fingerbrush Microfiber Oral Cleaner
Available in three sizes:
- Small dogs 3 to 7 kg
- Medium dogs 7-15 kg
- Large dogs over 16kg
Petosan Toothbrush
Petosan dental products for pets have been developed by a team of Scandinavian dentists, veterinarians and a leading edge toothbrush manufacturer.
Petosan Complete Dental Kits
For Small Dogs (<6kg): Contains a small double headed toothbrush, a tube of toothpaste and a finger cloth (finger brush). Ideal for dogs who are new to toothbrushing.
For Large Dogs (>16kg): A plastic outer protective case contains a large toothbrush, a tube of toothpaste and a finger cloth.
Petosan OralCleaner Finger Cloth
A reusable, antibacterial microfibre finger brush which removes plaque and bacteria from your dog's mouth. It is easier to use and provides better cleaning than finger toothbrushes. The Finger Cloth is an ideal way to start toothbrushing your dog.
Petosan Toothpaste
This tasty poultry-flavoured toothpaste has been specifically formulated for pets to help remove plaque and prevent the build-up of tartar. No rinsing required.
Alternatives if Your Dog Doesn’t Like Toothbrushing
In addition to brushing, there are several other methods to keep your dog's teeth clean and maintain their oral health. While brushing is the gold standard, incorporating other modalities can also be highly beneficial. Mechanical cleaning can be achieved in various ways, and mixing up the options can significantly improve the overall dental hygiene of your dog.
Dental Wipes and Sprays
Dental wipes and sprays are convenient options for maintaining your dog's oral hygiene, especially if they resist brushing. Products like Maxiguard oral wipes are effective in reducing plaque and freshening breath. These wipes can be easily applied to your dog's teeth and gums, providing a quick and stress-free alternative to brushing.
Additionally, in-water products such as Aquadent help to reduce plaque in the mouth. These products are added to your pet’s drinking water and are another great addition to a comprehensive home care dental plan.
Browse our vet-recommended dental wipes & gels
Maxi/Guard Oral Wipes
MAXI/GUARD® Oral Wipes are a convenient applicator and an efficient oral product for pets. Since the wipes contain their own special zinc formulation, cleaning the oral cavity of pets is quicker and simpler. The flavourless substance helps to prevent plaque buildup, combats bad breath, and eases gingival inflammation. The wipes have a roughness that helps remove plaque mechanically but isn't too harsh to harm gum tissue. The use of MAXI/GUARD® Oral Cleaning Wipes improves pet acceptability and owner compliance.
Aquadent FR3SH Dental Water Additive for Cats and Dogs
Transform your pet’s oral hygiene with Aquadent FR3SH™ Dental Water Additive for Cats and Dogs - a highly effective and palatable water additive designed to control plaque and reduce bad breath in dogs and cats. This advanced formula utilizes FR3SH™ technology, harnessing the power of natural ingredients to target and neutralize bad breath from both oral and digestive sources.
Key Benefits:
- Targeted Formula: Combats bad breath at its root by addressing both oral and digestive causes, promoting fresh breath and improved oral health.
- Convenient Use: Effortlessly integrate into your pet’s daily routine. Simply add to their drinking water using the included dosing cap.
- Veterinary Expertise: Crafted by veterinary dental specialists to ensure safety and effectiveness for both cats and dogs.
- High Palatability: Designed for easy acceptance by pets, with no noticeable reduction in water consumption.
Enhance your pet’s dental care with Aquadent FR3SH™ and enjoy fresher breath and a healthier mouth with minimal effort.
Available in: 250ml and 500ml Packs
Maxi/Guard Oral Cleansing Gel
Maxi/Guard Oral Cleansing Gel is an easy to apply, natural cleansing oral gel containing zinc gluconate and vitamin C to freshen your pet's breath and reduce dental plaque. Can be used with or without brushing.
To use Maxi/Guard, simply place a few drops directly onto your pet's gingival tissues each day.
Dental-Friendly Toys & Treats
Dental toys and treats are designed to help reduce plaque buildup and massage your dog's gums. These can be an excellent alternative to toothbrushing, as they provide a fun and engaging way for your dog to maintain oral health. Different treats work differently, so mixing up the options can enhance the overall effectiveness of mechanical cleaning. Dental chews, such as Greenies, and dental toys with textured surfaces are particularly beneficial.
Shop our favourite dental chews & toys
Oravet Dental Hygiene Chews For Medium Dogs (11 - 23kg)
Dual-action ORAVET dental chews are the simple solution for your dog’s at-home, daily dental care. As your dog chews, that chewing
action scrubs away at existing plaque. At the same time the unique ingredient, delmopinol, spreads throughout their mouth to create a
protective barrier and help prevent bacterial attachment.
To make the process of protection even simpler, ORAVET dental chews are easy to give, and dogs love them. ORAVET dental chews are
serious protection made seriously simple.
Features & Benefits
- The unique formulation in ORAVET prevents bacterial attachment on teeth resulting in
- 59% reduction in bad breath* in dogs
- 57% reduction in tartar*
- 39% reduction in plaque*
- Create a cleaner mouth and fresher breath for your dog.
- Cleans down to the gumline.
- Scrubs away existing plaque.
- Contains a unique ingredient, delmopinol, that coats the teeth, preventing bacteria from attaching to the enamel, inhibiting plaque formation, and keeping your dog’s mouth protected.
*With a daily ORAVET chew for 28 days.
KONG Squeezz Dental Ball Dog Toy
Kong Dental Squeezz toys satisfy dogs’ instinctual need to chew as the textured nubs reward appropriate behaviour while cleaning teeth. Stuffing with treats and its flexible material add to the engagement while extending playtime. The way the toy flexes as dogs chew allows for a deeper clean. Chewing on the Kong Dental Squeezz is a fun way to help prevent clinical teeth and gum conditions.
- Unique texture rewards appropriate chewing
- Flexible material for added engagement
- Stuff with treats or kibble to extend playtime
- Stuff grooves to entice chewing
- Cleans Teeth
VeggieDent FR3SH Large Dog
VeggieDent® FR3SH dental chews feature an innovative Z-shape design, making them easy for your dog to grab and chew. This unique shape, combined with the right size and texture, effectively reduces plaque and tartar formation, promoting dental health as recognised by the Veterinary Health Care Council (VOHC®).
Contains:
- Pomegranate, an antioxidant to promote gum health
- Erythritol to cool and freshen the mouth
- Inulin a prebiotic that addresses the digestive cause of bad breath
Key Benefits:
- Tasty and Palatable: Highly appealing chew that dogs love.
- Freshens Breath: Helps eliminate bad breath while cleaning teeth.
- Natural Ingredients: Plant-based formula with no animal proteins, artificial ingredients, or chemicals.
- Maximized Chewing Time: Unique Z-shape enhances grip and encourages longer chewing.
Choose VeggieDent® FR3SH for a healthier smile and fresher breath for your furry friend!
Pack Sizes
15 chews per pack
Regular Vet Check-Ups
Regular veterinary check-ups are essential for the early detection and treatment of dental issues. Your vet can perform professional cleanings and identify problems that may not be visible to the naked eye. Routine dental exams help ensure that any developing issues are addressed promptly, preventing more serious complications down the line.
Balanced Diet
A healthy diet plays a crucial role in maintaining good dental health in dogs. The addition of a dental diet, such as Hills T/D or Royal Canin Dental Dry Food, can help keep your dog's teeth clean by reducing plaque buildup. These diets are specially formulated to support dental health and can be an effective part of your dog's overall oral care regimen.
Shop all dental essentials here
Dog Dental Diets - Oral Care & Balanced Nutrition
Support your dog's dental health with our range of Dog Dental Diets. The best dental dog food is formulated to reduce plaque, tartar build-up, and freshen breath, as well as promote strong teeth and healthy gums. Choose from our selection of specialised foods to keep your dog's smile bright and healthy. Explore now at Vets Love Pets.
Dog Dental Chews - Vet-Recommended Dental Treats
Browse our wide range of dental chews & treats for dogs to keep your dog's breath smelling great, and their teeth clean and healthy! We stock a wide range of chews that your dog is guaranteed to love, like Greenies Chews, Oravet Dental Chews, and VeggieDent FR3SH. Browse all these products, compare the best dog treat options and create a proactive dog dental care routine for your pup.
Dog Dental Hygiene Essentials - Toothbrushes & more
Maintain your dog's oral health with our Dog Dental Hygiene Products. These dental hygiene essentials help prevent plaque and tartar build-up, ensuring your pet's teeth and gums stay healthy. Available now at Vets Love Pets.
Conclusion
Maintaining your dog's dental health is crucial for their overall well-being and can save you money in the long run. From regular tooth brushing to utilising dental-friendly toys, treats, and professional veterinary check-ups, a comprehensive approach to oral care is essential.
Owners should work with their vet to develop a good home care plan and then expect a scale and polish every few years to maintain optimal oral hygiene. Unfortunately, most insurance policies won't cover dental procedures, so it is best to budget for dental care from the start. By planning ahead and incorporating regular dental care into your routine, you can ensure your dog’s teeth stay healthy and avoid costly and painful dental issues in the future.
