As they age, dogs sometimes develop tooth issues, such as decay and lost teeth. While there is no single thing you can do to guarantee that your dog won't develop these problems as he ages, there are steps you can take earlier in your dog's life to decrease the risk of later ailments.
1. Feed them dental care treats.
Dogs are meant to chew. In the wild, they would be eating prey that requires a lot of chewing. In a domestic home, dogs' diets do not require much chewing. Kibble just crunches a little and wet food doesn't really require chewing at all. As such, domestic dogs do not get the chance to really wear any buildup off the surface of their teeth. Giving your dog dental chews or a dental care food a couple of times per week can help take the place of wild prey, helping to scrape tartar off the teeth. Tartar contributes to tooth decay, so feeding dental care treats can ultimately help prevent decay.
2. Don't feed them human food.
Dog food is very, very low in sugar. Human food is often not. Even foods like crackers and chips often contain some sugars. If you feed them to your dog, the sugar can allow oral bacteria to proliferate, which can cause decay and gum disease to worsen. If you must feed your dog "human food," stick to plain foods like unseasoned chicken, plain eggs, and green beans.
3. Brush their teeth.
Brushing a dog's teeth can be tough, but most dogs do get used to it over time. There are dog toothpastes that are flavored like chicken or beef, which will allow your dog to find them enjoyable. You just apply a little of this toothpaste to a brush or cotton round and then wipe your dog's teeth. They might only let you do a tooth or two at first, but you can work your way up over time.
4. Take them to the vet for dental care.
Take your dog to the vet for preventative dental care every year or two. The vet can sedate them and give them a thorough tooth cleaning. They will also look for any early signs of gum disease or tooth decay, enabling them to take prompt action and keep these conditions from getting worse.
With the tips above, you can take better care of your dog's teeth as they age. Talk to your vet to learn more about pet dental care.
Share18 March 2020
When it comes time to help your animals, there are a lot of different things you can do to improve their quality of life. Walks, nutritious food, and excellent veterinary care are all great ways that you can help to improve your animal's day and their life in general. On this blog, check out great tips that will help your animals to live their best life, so that they are well-suited to be happy for the long haul. Read on this website to learn how to help your animal to live their happiest, most fulfilling lives, and how veterinary care can help tremendously.