🦷 Dental Care for Your Dog
Just like humans, dogs need proper dental hygiene to stay healthy and happy. Ignoring your dog's oral care can lead to painful gum disease, tooth loss, and infections that affect overall well-being.
🦴 Common Dental Issues in Dogs
- Bad breath (halitosis): If your dog’s mouth smells unusually foul, it's not just “dog breath” — it could be a sign of bacteria buildup or infection in the mouth.
- Plaque and tartar buildup: A yellow or brown layer forms on the teeth when food, saliva, and bacteria mix. This hardened gunk can lead to serious gum disease if left untreated.
- Gingivitis (inflamed gums): If your dog’s gums are red, swollen, or bleed easily — especially during eating or brushing — they might have early-stage gum disease.
- Loose, broken, or missing teeth: You may notice your dog chewing only on one side, avoiding hard food, or even dropping food while eating. This can signal painful or damaged teeth.
- Drooling or difficulty eating: Unusual drooling or hesitation to eat dry food may be your dog’s way of telling you their mouth hurts. Watch for signs like licking lips constantly or avoiding meals.
- Pain or swelling around the mouth: If your dog doesn't like their face being touched, winces when chewing, or has a puffy area near the jaw or cheeks, it could be an infection that needs urgent vet attention.
🪥 Basic Dental Care Tips
- Brush your dog’s teeth 2–3 times a week using a pet-safe toothpaste
- Offer dental chews that help clean teeth naturally
- Use water additives or oral sprays as recommended by your vet
- Provide chew toys that massage gums and reduce tartar
⚠️ When to Visit the Vet
- Persistent bad breath despite brushing
- Bleeding gums or excessive drooling
- Difficulty chewing or dropping food
- Swelling on the face or near the mouth
- Visible decay or broken teeth
📦 Recommended Dental Products
- Vet-approved toothbrush & toothpaste kits
- Pedigree Dentastix / Himalaya Himpyrin Chews
- VetIQ Dental Gel / TropiClean Oral Spray
- KONG dental toys for daily use