Many people overlook the fact that a dog uses his teeth much more often than a person, trying the world around him “by the tooth”. Oral hygiene is one of the most important factors in the overall health of the dog. And it’s no secret that animals, like humans, also have dentists.
Sometimes dog breeders forget about oral hygiene in dogs. This can lead to serious illnesses. Sometimes we just don’t know that the dog suffers from toothache or gum inflammation, experiencing constant discomfort. In the absence of proper treatment, this problem can further affect the liver, kidneys and even the heart of your dog, and in the worst cases lead to blood poisoning and even the death of the animal. To avoid this, I recommend regularly brushing your dog’s teeth, and also do not forget about preventive examinations at the dentist
Diseases of the oral cavity in dogs are widespread. In this regard, they are on a par with diseases of the cardiovascular system, gastrointestinal tract and metabolic disorders. Most often, small and decorative breeds of dogs suffer from dental problems, a little less often it concerns medium breeds. In large breeds, diseases of this group reach 50% of the total number of individuals.
Why do dogs have toothache
Like humans, dogs can develop tooth decay. In this process, demineralization of hard tissues and root damage occurs. You may be surprised, but large dogs are treated for teeth and even put fillings. For dogs of small breeds, carious teeth are usually removed.
Another serious disease in dogs is periodontitis, which is very difficult to treat and can lead to tooth loss. It is important to pay attention to the prevention of periodontitis throughout the pet’s life.
Most often, dogs suffer from the presence of tartar. Every day, the animal forms plaque – a thin film containing bacteria. Over time, the minerals contained in the dog’s saliva react with this film, causing its mineralization and thus forming tartar. If this problem is not addressed, it can lead to serious violations of the animal’s health.
The following signs should alert the host:
- difficulties with eating;
- unpleasant smell from the mouth;
- stomatitis, bleeding gums;
- increased salivation;
- manifestations of anxiety: the dog rubs his mouth, touches his muzzle with his paws;
- loose teeth or tooth loss;
- yellow or brown tartar.
If you notice at least one of these signs, contact a veterinary clinic for help.
Does the dog need a dentist?
Of course, like a person, a dog needs a dentist. It is best to introduce your pet to a specialist even during the period of changing baby teeth to permanent ones. The doctor will examine the oral cavity, determine the presence of any deviations from the norm and give recommendations for daily care. Before the first visit to the dentist, prepare and check the dog’s ammunition: a collar or harness, a leash and a muzzle. Make sure that they are securely fixed and will not allow the pet to wriggle out of them even with active resistance. Veterinary dentists know how to communicate with animals, but your participation is needed to form good associations. Be calm and confident, do not show your concern to the dog, this will help relieve tension and achieve a positive reaction to the dentist. Also try to look at your pet’s teeth in a playful way, so you will prepare the dog for procedures at the dentist, it will not be an unexpected situation for her when the doctor examines the mouth.
What foods are harmful to dogs
The first product worth mentioning is sugar. Chocolate, chocolates, cakes, cocoa are very harmful to dogs. They contain the alkaloid theobromine, which accumulates to toxic concentrations in the body of dogs. The dog should not know the taste of chocolates and candy bars. Sweets destroy tooth enamel, disrupt digestion, can cause allergies and significantly increase the risk of diabetes.
You can’t give a dog bones instead of food. They contribute to the rapid grinding of teeth and often cause their loss, and in addition, they can cause constipation, inversion of the intestines and even perforation of the intestine.
Pay attention to the food and treats that you give your dog. If they stick to the teeth, this can lead to the rapid formation of plaque, so choose a harder food with small granules and give preference to treats that do not remain on the teeth.
Not only does food spoil teeth, but also what we often give the dog for entertainment. Hooves of horses and cows, deer horn, large bones, thick ropes and even some popular games, such as, for example, frisbee, can cause injuries to teeth and mouth.
How to avoid problems with teeth in a dog
Any problem with teeth is easier to prevent than to eliminate, so prevention is very important. Try to make brushing your teeth a ritual familiar to the dog. As a rule, dogs brush their teeth once a week, for this you need a toothbrush, a special toothpaste and a brush for massaging the gums. Follow a rational diet: avoid sweets and bones, carefully select treats and toys, excluding those that can injure teeth. Regularly inspect the mouth of the animal and pay attention to its behavior.
Taking care of your dog’s oral hygiene, you give her happy and serene days next to you. Do not forget about regular brushing of teeth, as well as about preventive trips to the dentist, and if you feel an unpleasant smell from the mouth, immediately contact a veterinarian to rule out possible diseases and help your pet.