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Header graphic reading 'Not quite!'. Many owners don't know that dental disease is the top cause of dog visits to the vet. Regular dental check-ups for dogs are very important.

Good guess, but the #1 cause of vet visits is dental disease!

Many owners don't realise just how important dental care is for their dog's overall wellbeing, but studies have shown that dental disease is the most common condition vets treat in dogs. As a vet, I see the impact of poor dental health in dogs almost every day.

Brushing your dog's teeth and visiting your vet for a professional scale and polish are among the best ways to maintain their dental health. Yet, fewer than 4% of owners brush their dog's teeth daily and almost half never brush their teeth at all. 

Banner explaining that Pet Health Club members receive 10%25 off all dental treatment.

Here are nine things every pet owner needs to know to help keep their pet’s teeth and gums healthy.

1. Dental disease is more common than you think

Around 12.5% of dogs are diagnosed with dental disease every year, and nearly half of owners report their dogs have bad breath.  This makes regular vet check-ups vital to catch problems early​​. Pets can hide their pain, so keep an eye out for signs like struggling to eat, dropping food, or avoiding chew toys. If you spot these, it's time to call your vet.

2. Bad breath isn't just unpleasant – it's a warning

If your dog has bad breath, it could be more than just smelly. It's often caused by plaque buildup or gum disease. In some cases, it can even be a sign of serious issues like kidney or liver disease​.

3. Professional cleanings are essential

Even with regular brushing, pets need professional cleanings. Vets can remove tartar and plaque from under the gumline, which helps prevent serious dental disease​​.

4. Daily brushing is the gold standard

Brushing your dog's teeth daily is the best way to prevent dental disease. Use a toothbrush and toothpaste made for pets — never use human toothpaste, as it often contains toxic ingredients, like xylitol, and has flavours that animals dislike, such as mint.


Read more: How to brush your dog's teeth


5. Dental health impacts overall health

Bacteria from dental disease can spread through your pet's bloodstream and cause problems with their heart, liver, and kidneys. Keeping up with dental care can help prevent this from happening.

Infographic detailing 11 signs your dog needs a dental check, which include bad breath, tartar buildup, swollen gums, difficulty eating, drooling, bleeding, and pawing at the mouth. These symptoms all indicate potential dog dental disease.


Read more: Expert advice to keep your dog's teeth and gums healthy


6. Dental chews can help (but choose wisely)

Vet-approved dental chews are a great way to reduce plaque and tartar buildup. However, avoid giving your pet hard objects like bones or rawhide, as these can break their teeth​.

7. Diet plays a role in dental health

Feeding your pet dry kibble can help reduce plaque buildup compared to soft food. Special dental diets are also available to help reduce tartar. Speak to your vet about the best diet for your pet​.

8. Start dental care early for the best results

Training your pet to accept dental care when they're young makes it easier to manage their dental health as they grow older. Start with short, gentle brushing sessions and use positive reinforcement to make it a good experience​. Also, the earlier you catch dental disease, the easier it is to treat. 

9. Small breeds are more susceptible

Smaller breeds like Toy Poodles and Cavalier King Charles Spaniels, as well as flat-faced breeds like Pugs, are more likely to have dental problems. This is often because their teeth are more crowded, making it harder to keep them clean​​. If baby teeth don't fall out when the adult teeth come in, it can also cause overcrowding. Dental X-rays can help catch problems that are hidden under the gums​.
 

Need more advice on your dog’s teeth?

Looking for more expert advice on maintaining your dog's dental health? Visit our dog dental care hub for all the essentials. If you are seriously concerned about your dog's teeth or gums, use our find a vet page to find your nearest vet, or speak to a vet online using our video vet service.

Looking for more expert advice on maintaining your dog's dental health? Visit our dog dental care hub for all the essentials.

Remember, prevention is always better than cure, so start taking steps today to protect your pet’s teeth. Members of Pet Health Club get six-monthly dental check-ups and 10% off dental procedures as part of their benefits.

Banner explaining that Pet Health Club members receive 10%25 off all dental treatment.

Sources:

Study identifies age and breed as biggest risk factors for periodontal disease in UK cats - Veterinary Practice (veterinary-practice.com)

Get brushing: Dental disease tops the list of most common problems in UK dogs, according to new study by the RVC

Dental Problems and Prophylactic Care in Cats—Knowledge and Perceptions among Swedish Cat Owners and Communication by Veterinary Care Staff - PMC (nih.gov)

Dental home care in dogs - a questionnaire study among Swedish dog owners, veterinarians and veterinary nurses - PMC (nih.gov)

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