Home dental care for dogs: how to keep their mouths healthy
Did you know that a large proportion of dogs over three years old have tartar or gingivitis? Read how to care for your dog's teeth at home and prevent dental problems.
Why is caring for your dog's teeth so important?
Did you know that a large proportion of dogs over the age of three have tartar or gum disease? Your dog's oral health is the cornerstone of their overall well-being, but it can easily be overlooked in everyday life. Untreated dental problems can cause your dog pain, feeding difficulties, and in the most severe cases, damage internal organs.
The good news is that daily home care can prevent most dental problems in dogs. Getting started is easier than you might think, as long as you know where to begin.
Bacteria in your dog's mouth constantly form plaque on the surface of the teeth. If plaque is not removed regularly, it hardens into tartar, which presses against the gums and causes gum disease. Gum disease progresses gradually, and in severe cases, it leads to damage to the tissues supporting the teeth and eventually to tooth loss.
Dental problems often begin at a young age, especially in small dog breeds such as Chihuahuas, Yorkshire Terriers, and Miniature Schnauzers. Small dogs have tight spaces between their teeth, which promotes the accumulation of plaque and tartar. That is why a regular dental care routine should be started immediately, and in small dogs, even from their first year of life.
The effects of untreated dental problems are not limited solely to the oral area. Bacteria can spread to the body through the bloodstream, so caring for your dog's oral hygiene is also caring for their overall health.
How to care for your dog's teeth at home
1. Brushing the teeth is the most important home care measure
Daily brushing with dog-specific toothpaste and a dog toothbrush is the most effective way to prevent plaque buildup on your dog's teeth. Start the introduction gently: first let your dog taste the toothpaste from your finger and touch the area around the mouth without applying pressure. Once your dog is used to being touched, gradually move on to actual brushing. It is important that your dog associates tooth brushing with a positive experience, so always praise and reward them after brushing.
Always remember to use toothpaste designed for animals. Toothpastes designed for humans contain xylitol and fluoride, which are toxic to dogs.
2. Chew toys and dental treats as supplementary care
Dog chew toys and dental treats designed for cleaning teeth work well as supplementary care alongside daily brushing. They help mechanically remove plaque from the surface of the teeth while chewing, and many dogs enjoy them immensely. Chew toys are especially good for dogs that are still in the training phase of tooth brushing.
Choose chew toys according to your dog's size: a chew toy that is too small can pose a choking hazard, while one that is too large will not provide effective cleaning.
3. Regular home checks
Check your dog's teeth and gums regularly at home. Healthy gums are pale pink and firmly attached to the teeth. Tartar appears as a brownish or yellowish buildup, especially on the surfaces of the back teeth and canines. If you notice bad breath, inflamed gums, bleeding, or increased salivation, book an appointment with the veterinarian for a dental check-up.
Oral care gel and oral rinse as an alternative
If your dog refuses to have their teeth brushed with a traditional toothbrush, an oral care gel or an oral rinse added to their drinking water can be an effective alternative. The gel is applied directly to the gums and contains enzymes that inhibit bacterial growth and plaque formation. An oral rinse, on the other hand, is added to your dog's drinking water and works in the background, supporting oral hygiene with every drink.
These products are not as effective as mechanical brushing, but they are a significantly better alternative than not caring for your dog's teeth at all.
When to take your dog to the veterinarian?
If your dog already has tartar buildup, home care can no longer remove it. Tartar removal is always performed at the veterinary clinic under light anesthesia. The procedure includes a thorough examination of the mouth and, if necessary, dental X-rays to assess the condition of the tooth roots. After professional cleaning, it is important to resume daily home care immediately to keep the clean result for as long as possible.
A regular dental check-up with the veterinarian is recommended annually. For small breeds and dogs prone to tartar, check-ups may be necessary more frequently.
