Top 12 Vet Recommendations for Dental Care in Senior Dogs

Doghood Community/Facebook

As dogs age, their teeth experience significant wear and tear, making dental care more crucial. Older dogs are prone to issues like plaque build-up, gum disease, and tooth loss, leading to serious health problems if left untreated. These 12 pieces of expert advice will keep your dogs’ teeth youthful and significantly improve their overall health.

Daily Brushing

Greywolf Veterinary Hospital/Facebook

Brush your dog’s teeth daily with a canine toothbrush and toothpaste. Routine brushing removes plaque and prevents tartar build-up and cavities, which is common in older dogs. Only use toothpaste specifically designed for dogs, as human toothpaste can be harmful.

Dental Chews

Pet Snacks/Facebook

Playtime can be much more productive if you provide dental chews designed to clean your dog’s teeth and massage its gums. Choose and rotate chews according to your dog’s size and breed. Dental chews also help keep your dog entertained while promoting oral hygiene.

Healthy Eating

cottonbro studio/Pexels

Plan your dog’s eating to be a balanced meal that promotes dental health. Dry kibble can help reduce plaque compared to wet food. Include crunchy vegetables like carrots as snacks, which can naturally clean teeth. Try to minimize giving sugary treats that can harm their teeth.

Professional Cleanings

Official U.S. Air Force

Schedule professional dental cleanings with your vet. These deep cleanings are essential for oral health, especially in older dogs. Vets can clean areas that regular brushing can’t reach, preventing severe dental issues.

Inspect Regularly

Greywolf Veterinary Hospital/Facebook

Regularly inspect your dog’s mouth for symptoms of dental issues, such as bad breath, discolored gums, or loose teeth. Look for any swelling or bleeding, which can indicate gum disease, and look for broken or missing teeth that may cause discomfort. Detecting this early would guarantee easier and more effective treatment.

Monitor Eating Habits

Barnabas Davoti/Pexels

Pay close attention to your dogs’ eating behaviors. Reluctance to eat or chew on one side can indicate dental discomfort. Watch for changes in appetite or chewing behavior, as early signs of dental issues can be subtle. Address any concerns with your vet promptly to prevent further complications.

Vitamin Supplements

Mikhail Nilov/Pexels

Give your dog vitamin supplements like Vitamins A & C for gum strength and health. Supplements can enhance overall oral health and complement a balanced diet. Check in with your vet before starting your dog on new supplements to ensure they are appropriate for your dog’s breed, and choose products specifically designed for dogs to ensure safety.

Regular Water Intake

KATRIN BOLOVTSOVA/Pexels

Make it a point of duty to ensure your dog drinks enough water throughout the day. Proper hydration is key to maintaining healthy gums and teeth, as water helps wash away food particles. It also eliminates the risk of dry mouth, which can lead to a build-up of cavity-causing bacteria.

Avoid Hard Treats

Mathias Reding/Pexels

Yes! It’s time to retire the bone treats — Steer clear of very hard treats that can break your dog’s teeth. Opt for softer alternatives that are still effective in cleaning teeth. Hard treats pose a risk of tooth fractures, which can cause discomforts that lead to veterinary intervention.

Natural Chews

johnnycochran/Openverse

Give natural chews like raw carrots or apple slices, which can help clean teeth naturally and are safe for dogs. These chews are a healthy, low-calorie option that provides essential vitamins. Introduce natural chews gradually to your dog’s diet, and always keep an eye on your dog to ensure safety.

Avoid Table Treats

Town & Farm Home Pet Care & Dog Training/Facebook

You must build immunity to that hypnotic dog’s eyes and not feed your dog a treat from your dinner plate. Human foods, mostly carbohydrates, are high in sugar and can lead to dental decay in dogs. Table scraps can also upset your dog’s stomach and contribute to weight gain. Educate family members about the risks of feeding table scraps to maintain consistency.

Educate Family Members

Yaroslav Shuraev/Pexels

Ensure all family members are aware of your dog’s dental care routine. Consistent care is essential for effectiveness, so make sure there’s no weak link who would sneak ‘Captain Puppy Eyes’ a Pizza slice at lunch.

Similar Posts

Leave a Reply