Periodontal Disease in Dogs

Don’t Forget About Your Pup’s Oral Health

Most dog owners are ardent defenders of their pup’s health. From grooming and nail trims, to getting them the exercise they need, canine care takes many forms. Unfortunately, even the most responsible pet parents often overlook one very important part of their dog’s wellness: oral care.

Like humans, dogs need routine brushing and cleaning to maintain healthy teeth and gums. What many owners don’t realize is that dogs are at a high risk for developing periodontal disease – but it’s preventable with the right approach to canine oral health care.  Here’s what you need to know to keep Fido’s gums healthy.

Signs of developing periodontal disease in dogs

Canine periodontal disease is progressive, usually occurring in stages – from plaque buildups, to gum inflammation, to gum recession and ultimately, tooth loss.  The signs and symptoms of worsening gum health aren’t hard to miss, either!  If your pup has terrible ‘dog breath,’ yellowing teeth, swollen gums or bloody gums when they chew on toys, these are your signals to start taking oral care seriously.

As is the case with humans, periodontal disease can get better with the right approach to care. You can even reverse it if you catch it early, saving you a lot of headaches!  Prevention is extremely important – periodontal disease is linked to everything from heart disease to organ damage in dogs.

Does Your Dog’s Breed Matter?

Health considerations vary from dog to dog, depending on the breed.  Canine periodontal disease is no different. It disproportionally affects smaller dogs more than larger ones.  Spaniels, dachshunds, toy poodles, pugs and yorkies are some of the breeds well-documented to develop dental problems.

This doesn’t mean bigger dogs are immune to periodontal troubles!  Boxers, mastiffs and greyhounds show a predisposition to gum decay and tooth loss.  Every dog deserves good dental care – whether they’re considered at-risk or not!

Oral care tips for your canine companion

How can you keep your pup’s gums in healthy condition?  The simplest way is to brush their teeth with canine-formulated toothpaste regularly.  Now, this is easier said than done – especially for less-than-cooperative dog who sees the toothbrush as another chew toy!

If brushing your dog’s teeth is a debacle, most vets will do it for you (for a fee).  If you’re looking for at-home solutions to staving off periodontal disease in your dog, here are a few simple tips for improving their oral health – including their gums:

• Give them chew toys designed to help them scrape away plaque from their teeth
• Feed them specially-formulated food to address early-onset dental diseases
• Feed them dental treats, which can reduce tartar and calculus, slowing gum disease

Remember, these things are all helpful, but they’re not a substitute for brushing and veterinary oral care! Schedule your pooch for dental exams and cleanings biannually (twice per year), and stay up-to-date on their oral health in-between.

Talk to your vet about canine oral care

Like most aspects of canine health and wellness, it’s best to consult with your dog’s vet about their teeth and gums.  Most veterinary practices offer routine cleanings and specialty oral care, and many vets will gladly share a few tips and tricks for cleaning your pup’s teeth and gums.

Your dog may not like having another reason to go to the vet, but it’s worth it to prevent periodontal disease and all the trouble that comes with it!

Ira and Lori Levenson love dogs and have had many dogs over the years from a small Yorkie – Chewy to a large Bull Mastiff – Maggie.