5 Tips To Protect Your Dog's Dental Health

Good dental health is important for everybody, even our dogs! Taking good care of your dog’s teeth can decrease their risk of dental diseases.


We have come up with an informative post on dental health for dogs and how pet parents can take care of their teeth:

Signs of dental problems in dogs

Most pet parents don’t recognize that their dogs have a dental issue until the problem has increased. Here are some signs of dental disease in dogs:


  • Bad smelling breath
  • Discoloration and build-up of plaque and tartar on teeth
  • Gum redness or inflammation
  • Difficulty eating or loss of appetite
  • Discomfort, lumps or bleeding around the mouth
  • Thick saliva
  • Facial swelling or swelling under the eye
  • Pawing at the mouth

If you notice any signs of dental disease, you should talk to your vet. 

How can pet parents protect their dogs' dental health?

As a dog owner, you play an important role in keeping their teeth clean. Neglecting your dog's dental health is simply not an option. The good news is that there are easy ways to take good care of your dog's dental health.


  • Regular brushing: It is essential to brush your dog's teeth regularly. This will help them to prevent gum disease, cavities, and other oral problems. Brush your dog's teeth twice or thrice a week to maintain good dental health. Use toothpaste specifically designed for dogs as human toothpaste can be harmful for our four-legged companions.

    • Dental chews and dental treats: Dental chews and bully sticks can help prevent plaque and tartar buildup. There are various types of dental chews; always choose the correct size for your pet. Avoid cooked bones because these can splinter and cause broken or worn teeth. Also, limit the number of dental treats as extra calories may cause your dog to gain weight.

  • Make dental care more fun: It's easy to make brushing fun for dogs; all you need is a little creativity. Encouragement and reward systems can help your dog make teeth cleaning a habit. 

  • Start good oral habits early: The key to home dental care is to start when they are puppies. It will help set your dog up with good dental health for its whole life.

    • Professional cleaning: Although a bit expensive, a professional dental cleaning is the best way to maintain your dog’s oral hygiene. Regular vet check-ups and teeth cleaning are essential to maintain good dental hygiene in your dog. Talk with your vet to make sure you're taking extra steps to protect your dog's teeth.

    Regular dental cleaning along with occasional professional cleanings at your vet is critical to your dog’s overall health. Regular dental care will help to: 


    • Remove bacteria and tartar buildup from your dog's mouth
    • Prevent inflammation of the gums, periodontal disease, and other gum diseases
    • Prevent tooth decay and painful cavities 
    • Protect your dog's teeth from becoming loose and falling out
    • Prevent bad breath 

    Final thoughts

    Want more years with your precious four-legged member? Keep their teeth clean and maintain good dental hygiene! Caring for your dog’s teeth can easily add two to three years to their life.


    With a little daily attention to dental care from puppyhood, dogs can have healthy teeth for a lifetime. Healthy mouth is important to their overall health and quality of life. Use your dog's annual vet checkup as an opportunity to discuss their teeth and overall dental health. 


    Hope you enjoyed reading this article! If you want to keep your pup healthy and entertained, Best Dog Chews provide high quality dog chews and treats for your furry friends.


    Stay tuned for more posts on dog behavior, care, and much more!