One often overlooked aspect of our dogs’ health can be their teeth. However, canine teeth can play a big part in health issues, so it’s best to keep on top keeping your dog’s teeth clean.
Their teeth are so important and holistic vet Alan Slater has been working with Green Pantry to share how we can easily help look after our dogs’ teeth. It takes less effort than you might think!
Slater says, “The signs your dog has dental issues can be subtle, so it’s important to keep a close eye on them. The most common issues to look out for are chewing difficulties, pawing at the mouth, drooling excessively, and loss of appetite. If you see these, it's better to be safe than sorry and get in touch with a vet as soon as possible.”
He explains that poor dental health can be associated with other health conditions, from liver and kidney disease to heart issues. Weight loss can be another problem, if your dog has a reduced appetite due to poor dental health.
So, how can we keep our pups’ teeth in good shape? Slater has four easy tips that don’t take much effort.
1. Brush their teeth at least three times a week
Slater advises brushing your dog’s teeth at least three times a week using one of the best dog toothbrushes and toothpaste formulated for dogs – here’s a guide on how to brush your dog’s teeth.
“Go slow and use positive reinforcement, such as providing their favorite treats alongside verbal praise if they behave well, to make it an enjoyable experience,” he says.
Meanwhile, here’s how to clean dog teeth without brushing .
2. Give them treats with mint and parsley
Try one of the best dog dental chews, treats or supplements with ingredients like mint and parsley, as these can help slow plaque and tartar buildup. Use specialist toys that are designed to clean teeth, too.
3. Go for regular checkups
Regular visits to the vet are important, and we should be ensuring our dogs have dental examinations alongside their annual checkups. If your dog belongs to a breed more prone to dental issues, it might be a good idea to go for more regular checkups.
4. Incorporate natural remedies into their diet
“There are plenty of natural remedies also available to help combat bad breath,” says Slater. “Fresh mint can be added to their food at meal times, while apple cider vinegar can be added to their water as it contains bacteria that can kill acetic acids.”
Among the conditions to look out for are periodontal disease (severe gum disease in dogs, which is the most common dental issue in adult dogs), overcrowding of the teeth, overbite, and gingivitis (which can progress to periodontal disease if it’s ignored).
If you’d like more advice, don’t forget to take a look at these eight tips to keep dog teeth clean and healthy !
