Clean and healthy teeth improve your dog’s quality of life. Not only does it prevent bad breath and discomfort to the dog, but ensures that your pet is welcome around the family and other humans.
Where to start
Take a look at your dog’s diet; it should include crunchy and chewy items that helps to keep tartar build up at bay. Eating specially formulated hard food will go a long way towards keeping teeth and gums healthy. Look out for oral hygiene chews, which also fight against gum disease and bacteria. Be on the lookout for foreign objects your dog chews and don’t give it bones that can damage or break a tooth.
You, and your vet, should regularly check the dog’s teeth. You may not relish opening your Rottweiler’s mouth, so it’s best to make the dog used to have its mouth looked at from a young age.
Why healthy teeth and gums matter
Without regular care, plague and tartar will build-up and the dog’s breath will smell. People will avoid the dog and it will suffer from gum disease (gingivitis). This is not only painful and uncomfortable for the dog, but if neglected can cause toxins entering the bloodstream, which can cause kidney and heart diseases.
What to look out for
The first is bad breath and difficulty in eating. Lip licking, dribbling and nasal discharge can also be signs of dental problems. Facial swelling and eventually losing teeth are further indications that your dog’s teeth are in trouble.
What can you do?
Regularly check the dog’s teeth and keep them clean. Getting the dog used to having its mouth touched may take a while, so start at a young age. Gently rub your finger around the dog’s teeth, then advance to wrapping a piece of gauze around your finger, and eventually use a doggy or soft children’s toothbrush. Now add some doggy toothpaste – NOT toothpaste meant for humans! The taste is too sharp for the dog and can make it sick. Try to clean the dog’s teeth twice a week.
Unless you see a problem, it’s fine to have your vet check the dog’s teeth during your regular visit. If needed, he or she will clean and polish the dog’s teeth; which may have to be done under anesthetic if a lot of work needs to be done.
Just as it pays to take care of your own teeth, the longer-term advantages outweighs the time and effort it costs to take care of your dog’s teeth.