Discover common pet oral care mistakes dog owners make, why they damage your dog’s health, and how to properly care for your pup’s teeth.
Taking good care of your dog’s teeth is just as important as brushing your own. Neglecting your furry friend’s oral health could lead to serious medical issues down the road.
When it comes to pet care products for your pup, don’t cut corners. Read on to discover common dental mistakes pet owners make and how they damage your dog’s health.
Overlooking Oral Care
Many pet parents don’t realize that dogs need regular tooth brushing and dental care, just like humans.
Letting plaque buildup go unchecked allows bacteria to run rampant, destroying teeth and gums.
This accelerates gum disease, tooth decay and loss, and even heart, liver, and kidney damage.
Give your doggo a fighting chance by implementing a thorough oral care routine using vet-recommended pet care products.
Feeding Wrong Foods
What your pup eats directly impacts oral health. Hard kibble helps scrape away tartar, while crunchy treats do the same while pleasing your pooch. Spread out treat times to maximize teeth cleaning.
On the flip side, soft, wet foods stick to teeth, inviting bacteria to move in and set up shop. Minimize moisture-rich foods whenever possible.
Missing Early Signs
Catching problems early makes treatment easier. Look inside Fido’s mouth weekly for red, swollen, or bleeding gums as this indicates gingivitis.
Bad breath also signals dental disease. Don’t ignore symptoms or delay scheduling a veterinary dental cleaning.
Using Low-Quality Pet Supplies
Cheap pet supplies seem like a good deal but frequently cause more harm than good. Rough, low-grade toothbrushes irritate delicate gum tissue.
Inferior toothpaste may contain stomach-upsetting detergents instead of pet-safe cleaners. Invest in high-quality pet care products to care for your dog’s teeth.
Signs Your Dog’s Oral Health Needs Attention
| Symptom | What It Means |
| Bad Breath | Bacteria from plaque produces foul odors |
| Red or Swollen Gums | Gingivitis inflammation |
| Yellow or Brown Tartar | Hardened plaque buildup |
| Loose or Missing Teeth | Advanced-stage dental disease |
| Reduced Appetite | Mouth pain inhibits eating |
| Pawing at the Face | Possible dental discomfort |
Skipping Annual Cleanings
Your fur baby needs professional veterinary dental cleanings to maintain good health. The vet will:
- Thoroughly clean plaque and tartar from teeth
- Take x-rays to check for issues below the gum line
- Extract dangerously infected or damaged teeth
- Provide at-home oral care recommendations
Regular cleanings prevent disease progression to advanced stages that necessitate tooth extractions.
Choosing the Wrong Toothbrush
Human toothbrushes don’t properly fit a dog’s mouth. The bristles can harm gums. Instead, use a toothbrush made specifically for canines with ultra-soft bristles and a petite head that maneuvers well. Replace worn-out brushes every 3 months.
Don’t have a toothbrush? Try these effective alternatives:
- Finger brush: Slide over your index finger
- Washcloth: Gently wipe teeth and gums
- Gauze square: Twisted corner rubs tooth surfaces clean
Using Human Toothpaste
It may be tempting to share your minty toothpaste tube but don’t do it! Most human pastes contain foaming agents that can irritate a dog’s stomach when swallowed.
Special enzymatic formulas exist for safe and effective canine dental care. Seek out a pet-friendly toothpaste vetted by veterinary dental specialists. Introduce brushing slowly, using a pea-sized amount on a soft brush or cloth.
Not Taking Size Into Account
One size does not fit all for doggie dental products. Mini breeds have teeny teeth that require appropriately sized tools.
Standard brushes may harm toy dog gum tissue or miss back teeth. Purchase supplies sized for your petite pup’s mouth.
On the other hand, large or giant breed dogs need full-sized tools to effectively access their sizable sets of choppers. Custom canine products ensure every furry smile stays healthy regardless of breed.
Attempting DIY Dental Work
Does your dog have a broken tooth? Don’t reach for needle-nose pliers! Well-meaning but misguided DIY dental work only causes more trauma and intensifies issues.
Plus, underlying complications like abscesses, cysts, or tumors often lurk undiscovered beneath the surface.
Leave dental repairs to the professionals. Veterinary specialists have the knowledge and tools to properly examine, diagnose, and treat whatever is ailing your pooch’s pearly whites.
