Does your pooch like to give you affectionate little licks? This is a pretty adorable way of showing affection! However, while your canine pal’s smooches probably won’t ever smell minty-fresh, they shouldn’t leave you green and gagging. Bad breath is often a telltale sign of doggy dental issues. This is one of the most common issues we see in our canine companions. Unfortunately, it’s also often overlooked. Read on as a local Lenexa, KS vet offers some advice on keeping Fido’s choppers healthy.
Watch For Signs Of Doggy Dental Disease
Dogs are susceptible to a wide variety of dental issues. Many are the same or very similar to those we humans can develop. Gum disease, for example, is quite common. Fido may also develop abscesses or infections. It’s also not uncommon for pups to have misalignments. Our canine buddies are also prone to cracking or breaking their teeth, which isn’t really that surprising given their affinity for playing with sticks and chewing on, well, everything.
These issues can be just as painful—and just as dangerous—as they are for people. Gum disease, for example, is tied to some very serious health problems, such as liver and kidney issues and heart disease. This is because the infection can travel from your pet’s mouth to his vital organs. Abscesses are also excruciating for pets.
These problems can actually become quite dangerous. Dental issues can prevent dogs from chewing their food properly. In some cases, dogs find it so difficult to eat or chew that they stop eating. This can quickly spiral into some very serious health issues.
One of the most important things you can do is to just watch for signs of doggy dental woes.
Here are some of the key ones:
Bad Breath: It’s probably safe to say that your pet’s breath will never be minty fresh. However, really foul breath is often an indication of dental issues. It can also be a sign of many other medical conditions, which means it definitely warrants a call to the vet.
Bleeding Gums: You may not notice the blood on your furry pal’s actual gums. Keep an eye out for dark smears on his toys and dishes.
Swelling: Swelling is never good, but it’s particularly concerning around the head or mouth, as it’s so close to the brain. This is typically a sign of an infection. It’s also going to indicate that your pet is in pretty serious pain.
Drool: To be fair, some of our four-legged buddies are, well, a bit slobbery. (We’re looking at you, Saint Bernards.) However, if Fido suddenly seems to be drooling more than he used to, or if you notice that his saliva is very thick, ropy, or worse, bloody, then there is a pretty good indication that something is wrong.
Tartar Buildup: As with humans, tartar buildup is closely associated with gum disease. As plaque hardens into tartar, it begins to push below the gumline, forming pockets that are havens for bacteria. The bacteria will then begin to eat away at your pet’s bone, causing tooth shifting and, eventually, tooth loss.
Misalignments: Fido will still be super cute with a crooked smile. However, misalignments can make it harder for him to chew his food. They can sometimes also cause or contribute to sinus infections. This is noted with the warning signs as misalignments are often quite obvious to the naked eye.
Changes In Eating Habits: Chewing on a sore tooth is no fun for people or pets. Pay attention to how Fido eats. If you notice things like him taking longer than usual, chewing on one side of his mouth, dribbling food out of his mouth, or preferring softer foods, he may have dental troubles.
Behavioral Changes: Dental issues aren’t going to do much for anyone’s mood. Fido may act a bit grumpy. He may not be very interested in his favorite games, especially Tug-O-War. Or, he may go off by himself and look sort of sad and mopey. You may also notice your pooch shying away from having his head touched.
Contact your Lenexa, KS vet right away if you notice any of these issues.
Should I Brush My Dog’s Teeth?
Brushing Fido’s teeth is the most effective thing you can do to keep his teeth healthy. There is definitely a right and wrong way to go about this. What you don’t want to do is try and just stick a toothbrush into your furry pal’s mouth. That’s a good way to get bit!
Instead, you’ll want to start slow. At first, just rub your dog’s teeth and gums as you are petting him. Hopefully this goes without saying, but you would only want to try this with a very friendly dog. It’s best if you can start while your pooch is still very young.
Once Fido has gotten used to you touching his teeth and gums, you can start to incorporate doggy toothpaste. Pick a yummy flavor, like beef or chicken, to help get your canine buddy on board and help him form a pawsitive association.
The next step is adding a toothbrush. You don’t have to do your pup’s entire mouth at once. Just do one segment at a time and keep rotating.
What If My Dog Won’t Let Me Brush His Teeth?
Fido is quite smart, but it’s probably safe to say that trying to explain the benefits of getting his teeth brushed isn’t the best approach. You’ll probably just get a cute head tilt. You don’t want to force the issue, though.
There are other things you can try. Here are some options for keeping your dog’s teeth healthy:
Dental Treats And Chews: These products are specifically formulated to remove plaque and tartar from your furry friend’s teeth.
Oral Flakes And Chews: These can be added to Fido’s food to help keep his choppers clean.
Dental Rinses: These are products you can add to your furry friend’s water to help fight plaque and kill germs.
Chew Toys: Chewing also helps keep dogs’ teeth in good health. It can help scrape off plaque and tartar. Plus, it keeps Fido’s jaws strong. It additionally promotes the flow of saliva, which will help rinse his teeth.
Water: Making sure that Fido always has fresh, clean water is crucial to his very survival, and is one of the basics of good pet care. However, it’s also good for his choppers, as it will prevent dehydration and keep his mouth clean.
Ask your vet for specific advice.
How Are Canine Dental Issues Treated?
There’s no one-size-fits-all solution here: it would depend on the issue. If Fido has tartar buildup, a deep cleaning may be all that’s needed. If your pup has cracked a tooth, he may need an extraction. Your veterinarian will be able to offer specific recommendations for your pet’s dental care needs after they have thoroughly examined your furry friend and made a diagnosis. Just remember: the point here isn’t to give your pet a perfect grin. The aim is to correct issues that cause pain or can lead to infections or other problems. Ask your Lenexa, KS vet for more information.
Make An Appointment At Our Lenexa, KS Animal Clinic
Do you have questions or concerns about your pet’s health or care? Please feel free to reach out to us at any time. As your Lenexa, KS pet clinic, we are here to help!
