13 Effective Tips: How to Remove & Prevent 10 Dog Dental Tips Tartar & Plaque on Dog's Teeth Titanium Dog's Teeth Cleaning Toys Dog Teeth Falling, Eruption & Extraction Best Dog Toothpaste Dental Dog Health - FAQ How to Prevent Dog Tooth Decay, Tartar & Plaque? Dog Teeth Problems & Skull Anatomy 5 Tips To Deal With Teething Puppies How many teeth do Dogs have? Dog Teeth Diagrams and Infographics The Teeth & Gums of Dog and Puppy Dog Teeth Cleaning Guinness Record Best Dog Teeth Cleaning Products Teethless Senior Dogs Care & Toys How to Clean & Care Dog Teeth How much Teeth Dogs Have? Dog Teeth Types & Functions: Canine, Molar, Premolar, Incisor Prevent & Stop Dog Biting Dog Dental Cavities & Tartar How to Fight Bad Dog Breath Dog Teeth vs Human Teeth Dog Teeth vs Cat Teeth Dog Teeth Photos & Videos Dental Care for Senior Dogs Can Dogs Regrow Teeth? Puppy Teething Symptoms Dog Teeth Measure Guide How to Brush Dog Teeth? Dog Jaws & Chewing Dental Canine Health Dental Dog Treats Dog Teeth Bracers Dog Werewolf Muzzle Do Dogs Lose Teeth? Dog Aging by Teeth Dog Teeth Trauma Dog Baby Teeth Dog Tooth Paste Dog Oral Hygiene Dog Teeth Bite Dog Mouth Bones Dog Teethball
Dog's first set of baby teeth, or milk teeth, grow in between 3 and 4 weeks of age. When your puppy is around 4-5 months old, these teeth will fall out to make room for their permanent set of adult teeth. By 5-7 months, all the adult teeth will be present. It is important to note this can vary depending on the breed.
75% of vets recommend brushing your dog's teeth every day. While 14% suggest cleaning a dog's teeth twice a day, like we do our own teeth. ONLY 10% OF DOG OWNERS BRUSH THEIR DOG'S TEETH!
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How many teeth do dogs have?
Puppies have 28 baby teeth Adult dogs have 42 teeth.
Six pairs of sharp incisor teeth are in front of the mouth, flanked by two pairs of large canine ("dog") teeth.
The other teeth are premolars and molars.
The incisors and the canines are very important because the dog bites and tears at its food with these teeth.
A D V E R T I S E M E N T
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Like their wolf ancestors, dogs are carnivores with teeth designed for rending and tearing meat. They have 28 deciduous (baby) teeth that are replaced by 42 permanent (adult) teeth between 2 and 7 months of age.
The different types of teeth have specialized functions, depending on their position in the mouth.
The front teeth, which include the 12 incisors and 4 large canine teeth (eye teeth), are designed for grasping and tearing. The rearward premolar and molar teeth grind food into smaller pieces that can be swallowed.
Mammalian carnivores have teeth that line the upper and lower jaws. There are four types of teeth with different functions:
Teeth are a set of highly mineralized living tissues used by mammals to hold, tear, and chew. They are significant not only for eating, but also for protection. The teeth even play an important role in keeping the tongue safely moist inside the mouth.
Each tooth has a crown (located above the gums) and a root (located below the gums). Some teeth, such as incisors, have one root, while others, such as the largest cutting premolar, called the "carnassial tooth," has as many as three roots.
A dog tooth is composed of the following structures:
Pulp: The pulp is at the center, or core of the tooth, and consists of connective tissue, nerves, and blood vessels that nourish the tooth. Most of the nerves and blood vessels to the tooth enter through the apex (bottom) of the root. Special cells in the pulp, called "odontoblasts" form dentin.
Dentin: The majority of the tooth is made up of dentin, which surrounds the pulp. Dentin is as hard as bone but softer than enamel. Dentin is a tissue that can detect touch, heat, and cold. Primary dentin is dentin that is formed before tooth eruption, secondary dentin is dentin that is continually formed throughout the life of the tooth. As the secondary dentin forms, the pulp chamber reduces in size. The dentin of the crown is encased in enamel and the dentin of the root is covered by cementum.
Enamel: Enamel is the hardest tissue in the mammalian body and is formed before tooth eruption. Just before the tooth erupts through the gums, the formation of enamel stops and is lost gradually over the life of the tooth. Although enamel is very hard, it is brittle, too, often subject to chipping. The tissues that surround the teeth are called the "peridontium" and consist of the alveolar bone, periodontal ligaments, cementum, and gingiva.
Alveolar Bone:The alveolar bone forms the jaw and the sockets into which the roots of the teeth extend.
Periodontal ligaments: This tough tissue helps to hold the tooth in the socket. It attaches to the cementum of the tooth and the alveolar bone.
Cementum: Cementum is hard, calcified tissue that covers the dentin of the root and is slowly formed throughout the life of the tooth. It assists in supporting the tooth in the jaw and in root repair.
Gingiva: The gingiva, also called the "gums," is the soft tissue that covers the rest of the peridontium.
Lateral canal: The lateral canal is a very small channel that connects the root pulp to the periodontal tissue through which small blood vessels run.
Although teeth have different shapes and functions, each still shares the same structural anatomy. The innermost portion is the pulp/root canal, in which the blood vessels and nerves lie. Surrounding this canal, the dentin provides the structure for most of the tooth. The shiny, protective enamel covers the outer part of the crown, which is the visible portion of the tooth. The roots of the tooth are firmly held into the jawbone with the periodontal ligament. This strong sheath of tissue "glues" the tooth root to the surrounding bone. The gum tissue overlying the base of teeth is called the gingiva.
Teeth are very important to an animal as they are used for eating, grooming and defense. Consequently, dental problems, if not treated, often lead to more generalized illness. Mammals have teeth of different sizes and shapes, a condition known as heterodonty, allowing different teeth to be specialized for different tasks.
These specialized teeth include: Incisors, Canine teeth, Premolars, Molars. Mammals also have two sets of teeth: a deciduous set (milk teeth, baby teeth) and a permanent set.
In mammals, there are two distictive types of teeth that differ in pattern of growth and morphology:
Brachydont or low-crowned teeth are what is seen in man, carnivores such as dogs and cats, and pigs. This type of tooth consists of a crown above the gingiva, a constricted neck at the gum line, and a root embedded in the jawbone. The crown is encased in enamel and the root in cementum. Enamel is the hardest substance in the body being densely packed with hydroxyapatite mineral crystal and heavily mineralized with calcium salts. Cementum is calcified connective tissue. Dentin, a bonelike material, is under the enamel and makes up most of the tooth. The pulp cavity includes blood vessels, lymphatics and nerves.
Hypsodont or high-crowned teeth are continue to erupt throughout life. Examples of this type of teeth include all of the permanent teeth of horses and cheek teeth of ruminants. Hypsodont teeth are usually described as having a body, much of which is below the gum line, and root, which is embedded in the alveolus of the jaw bone. Enamel covers the entire body of the tooth, but not the root.
In both high-crowned and low-crowned teeth, the tooth is attached to a "socket" in the jaw bone called an alveolus. The attachment is through a fibrous capsule called the gomphosis. Remembering the term gomphosis is required only of dental students. An additional type of nomenclature is used to describe the different surfaces of teeth, as depicted in the image below. The occlusal surface is the chewing surface.
The upper jaw is called the "maxilla" and the lower jaw is called the "mandible." The shape of an animal's skull affects the positioning of the teeth.
In dogs, there are three major types of head shapes:
Brachycephalic: short, wide muzzle. For example, Pekingese, Pugs, and Persians.
Mesaticephalic: medium length and width muzzle. For example, Golden Retrievers, terriers, most cats, and ferrets.
Dolichocephalic: long, narrow muzzle. For example, the Doberman Pinschers, Greyhounds, or Oriental cats.
The average adult dog has 42 teeth, 22 on the lower jaw and 20 on the upper jaw. If you count, on each jaw there will be 6 incisors, 2 canines, and 8 premolars. There will be 6 molars in the lower jaw and 4 on the upper jaw. If you ever wondered how shelter workers can tell you the approximate age of the dog, it is by counting the teeth.
The Long Dog Teeth The Carnassial Teeth The largest tooth in a dog,s mouth is the upper fourth premolar, which we know as the canine teeth, or carnassial tooth. The special shape and tooth surface is designed to help shear, crush, and hold. This is why you see dogs grasping chew toys with the side of their mouths, chomping feverishly.
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Depending on the breed of dog, the teeth come together in two different ways. The scissors bite, with the teeth of top jaw closing in front of those of the other jaw, occurs in dogs with long, narrow muzzles such as Dobermans, Greyhounds, and Collies. Breeds with short, wide muzzles such as Bulldogs, Pugs, and Boxers tend to have a reverse scissors bite, with the lower incisors in front of the upper when the dog's mouth is closed, often called an underbite or an undershot jaw. The breed standard for each breed will tell you which type of bite your dog should have. In some breeds, it is acceptable to have a level bite, where the incisors meet tip-to-tip. However, this can cause the teeth to wear down more quickly than they should.
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Despite all their chewing and gnawing on rawhide bones, dogs frequently develop dental disease. By the age of two, 80% of dogs have some signs of dental disease. Plaque and tartar on your dog's teeth can build up over time if not cleaned off, causing infection that can eventually lead to tooth loss.
This infection can also spread to the dog's kidneys, liver and heart and causing serious damage to these vital body organs. You can prevent tooth decay and periodontal disease - infected gums and tooth support area, in dogs by taking them for routine dentist visits, regularly brushing their teeth, and giving them foods that prevent plaque build-up in the first place.
Most dog owners are not aware of their dog's oral hygiene and never take a good look inside their dog's mouth. It is estimated that only 7% of the dog population in United States can be considered healthy in terms of oral health. The good news is that dogs aren't as prone to cavities as human beings are - but despite the old conventional wisdom that a dog's mouth is cleaner than humans, dogs can still develop problems like tartar and plaque buildup and gingivitis.
1. Check your dog's teeth regularly. Check your dog's teeth and gums every time you groom it. This should be done at least once a week. The more the dog is used to you checking its teeth, the more responsive it will be and the easier it'll be for you to spot anything unusual. Look for any bleeding, swelling, sores, lumps, discharge, cracked or fractured teeth, or growths on the gums, tongue, and roof of the mouth. Also, try to look back in the throat, under the tongue, and on the insides of the cheeks for any abnormalities. As you get to know your dog's mouth, it will be easier and quicker for you to spot any strange changes. If you find any of these things, call your veterinarian to discuss your findings and how to proceed.
2. Start dental care early in your dog's life. It's a good idea to start brushing your dog's teeth when it is a puppy, so that it gets used to the process. This dental care can even start when the puppy is eight to twelve weeks old. This will make a lifetime of teeth brushing easier on both you and the dog. Clearly, not every dog goes to its forever home as a puppy, and so may not begin a dental care routine as a puppy. Whatever age your dog is when you adopt it, it is worth starting a dental care right away, so that the dog and you can begin to get used to the process.
3. Get your dog used to teeth brushing. Introducing tooth brushing to your dog should be done over the course of a few weeks. The process begins by familiarizing your dog with the sensation of having your fingers in the mouth and ends with stress-free brushing using a dog toothbrush and using a toothpaste designed specifically for dogs. Put a small amount of the dog toothpaste on your finger and allow the dog to lick it off. This toothpaste comes in flavors like chicken or liver, making it a good tasting product. Next, place a little more on your finger and rub it along your dog's gums. The next day, try placing a little on the toothbrush and rubbing this gently along the outer edges of the teeth and gums. If your dog resists the dog toothbrush, use a gauze pad, a washcloth, or a soft child's toothbrush in place of a large toothbrush.
4. Brush your dog's teeth on a regular basis. Dog tooth brushing is the primary way to break up deposits that form on your dog's teeth soon after eating. This will wash away the nasty bacteria that leads to plaque formation. Gradually build up time to run the tooth brush along the outer edges of the teeth and gums brushing them like you would your own teeth. It should not take more than a minute, usually around 30 seconds, to brush your dog's teeth. Brushing your dog's teeth should be done on a nightly basis, or a few times a week at a minimum. You do not need to get the inside surfaces of the teeth. Do not use human toothpaste, as the fluoride in the toothpaste can be toxic to dogs. Brush your dog's teeth after he has had a lot of exercise.
5. Provide some hard toys to chew on. Increase your dog's interest in a tooth-strengthening chew toy by using peanut butter. These can assist in keeping the teeth in great shape. Many of them have rubber nibs that help massage the gums and gently scrape some of the plaque off of the teeth. Keep an eye on your dog if the toy he is chewing on could break into smaller pieces. Ask at the pet store or at the vet's for suitable toys. Make sure to clean them regularly by a good scrubbing with soap and water and then running them through the dishwasher while they are on the top rack.
6. Feed a diet aimed at tartar and plaque control. Home care is most successful when a combination of products are used. Some foods work on a mechanical action (large biscuits with specific fibres to scrape away at the tartar). Other products include a component that binds calcium in the saliva to reduce the conversion of plaque into tartar (like certain toothpastes). The benefit of these diets is that they work on all the teeth in the mouth and not just the chewing teeth. Ask your vet to recommend a suitable dental diet or check the Veterinary Oral Health Council website for registered products. While ideally this should be done in conjunction with tooth brushing, dental diets are especially helpful when tooth brushing is not possible.
7. Consider adding tartar removal products into your dog's water dish. Tartar-control products are available in liquid form and are designed to remove food deposits throughout the day or when you rinse the dog's mouth with them.[8] Products with the ingredient chlorhexidine have proven to be the most effective at lowering the bacterial counts in dogs mouths.If tartar build-up is too severe, this product will not be effective enough and your vet will need to perform a professional cleaning. Consider giving your dog an oral rinse or gel.
8. Consider whether a bones-and-raw-food diet if right for your dog. The diet is also known as a "BARF" diet or "Biologically Appropriate Diet." Advocates of this diet feed daily servings of raw, meaty bones to address nutritional needs, as well as to help keep teeth clean through chewing action. There is not a lot of scientific data to back up the beneficial claims made about this diet in general. Thus, it's best to consult with a veterinarian before starting your dog in this diet. If your dog has a chronic health problem, be sure to consult with a veterinarian before feeding this diet, as there is some concern about bacteria on the raw bones. If your dog is on a prescription food for any reason, do not start this diet without careful consultation with your veterinarian. Select the most organic bones you can find to minimize exposure to pesticides. Choose hard bones such as bison bones, which take longer to disintegrate. Never feed chicken bones or cooked bones to dogs as these are more brittle and can create sharp shards which can injure your dog's digestive tract.
9. Take your dog to a veterinarian skilled in pet dentistry annually. In the first appointment the veterinarian will usually just assess the state of your dog's teeth. Your vet will check for tartar build-up and signs of periodontal disease, and will determine what needs to be done to improve your dog's dental health. tooth hygiene at home. If it is determined that your dog needs a dental cleaning or other serious procedure, an appointment will be scheduled.
10. Let your dog chew on synthetic toys and bones. There are many synthetic bones and chew toys that are specially designed to strengthen your dog's gums and teeth. Just make sure you're providing safe objects for your dog to chew on. Hard objects can cause broken teeth. Talk to your vet about what kind of toys are best for your dog's teeth. Different breeds and sizes of dogs will require different sized and shaped toys.
11. Avoid giving your dog bones and chews that can lead to gum and tooth damage. Dogs are carnivores - they chew on bones in the wild. However it is not recommended that you give your dog cow hooves, dried natural bones or hard nylon products to chew, because they are too hard and do not mimic the natural effect of a dog tearing meat off a carcass. These hard products are associated with broken teeth or damaged gums. If you're unsure what to buy your pup, look into reviews of products, talk to the staff at your favorite pet store, and ask your veterinarian specific questions about the products you're looking to buy.
12. Learn to recognize signs of dental decay in your dog. It's important to be able to recognize the signs of dental decay in your dog, so you can consult with a veterinarian as soon as possible. The main signs of dental decay include: Bad breath, Loosely fitting, discolored teeth covered by dental tartar, Bleeding gums, Poor appetite and a reluctance to eat hard food.
13. Bring your dog in for a thorough dental cleaning. In order to get at the plaque beneath the gum lines which all dogs will have, the dog will need to be sedated and then anesthetized. This will also give the veterinarian a great opportunity to do a thorough oral examination as the dog will not resist having its mouth and throat examined when it is sedated. During the cleaning, a motorized machine called a dental scaler is used. It uses water under pressure to blast the plaque and tartar away, both on the visible tooth surface and under the gums.
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A New Challenge, A New Beginning: 5 Tips To Deal With Teething Puppies It's not a simple thing to take care of a puppy. A dog that's maturing from puppyhood to adulthood will need a lot of things. Having said that, you will have to take away a lot of things too. Puppy teething, as some call it, is an inevitable process. And if you don't take care of it soon enough, it can ruin your expensive shoes, stuffed toys, bedding, and furniture. There is a way you can avoid this. And take care of your puppy's teeth. By following these impressively effective tips to deal with teething puppies.
When Does It Begin? Puppies generally possess 28 baby teeth. You will notice the first teeth start to grow out at the age of 4 or 5 weeks. This will then start to shed when the puppy is about 12 to 16 weeks of age. Puppy teething is the process of baby teeth shedding. This when the puppy starts to grow adult teeth. Not only is this process painful for a puppy, but it's also tough on you too. By the age of 6 months, your puppy will have lost all of his or her baby teeth. You can make this time a whole lot easier on your puppy if you follow these tips.
5 Tips to Deal with Teething Puppies
1. Buy a bully chew toy A bully chew toy is a sticky and gluey kind of chew toy. It's the perfect and most delicious chew toy for dogs. They are dried pieces of Bull penis. I know that sounds disgusting but dogs love it. It has the right texture and form for puppies to nibble at. Puppies need something that is jelly-like but firm. Anything too hard like bones or dried chicken sticks will break their teeth. The last thing you want is your puppy to chip his or her teeth. It's painful and hinders the teething process. Look for safe and hygienic bully sticks for your puppy. Your puppy will not and should not swallow the stick. As your puppy chews on it, it will get smaller. So the best thing to do is to throw it out before your pup tries to break it into smaller pieces for digestion.
2. Use an anti-chew spray or deterrent This is to keep your furniture and essentials away from your puppy. If your puppy is spoiling the rug or blanket or jumping at your pillows the first chance he or she gets. Then you need an anti-chew spray or deterrent to send a message. And the message is to stay away from these items. You can do two things. First is distract your puppy with a new chew toy. Second, spray the anti-chew spray on surfaces where you don't want your puppy to go. With both these tactics, your puppy won't spend a long time tugging at things you don't want your puppy to spoil. Rather he or she will immediately move on to the chewable thing in the house i.e. the new and shiny chew toy you just got. It's true that puppies love shiny things as much as humans do. So make sure you have the necessary tools available at home before you spray any kind of product. Also, just to be safe, consult with your vet first before you use a sensitive spray.
3. Start training your dog Puppy training can go a long way to avoid bad habits. If your puppy is running all around the house with your favorite shoe. There isn't much you can do. Even if you have a chew toy or an anti-chew spray. What is lacking, in such a situation, is proper training. You can train your puppy commands like "leave it" or "no" or "come here." There are healthy commands to give to a puppy who's misbehaving. The worst thing you can do is yell or become violent with your dog. That is never a good punishment for any misbehavior. It can have a negative effect on your dog for life. Another bad idea is to let your dog have his prize even though it's wrong. Like your favorite shoe, for example. If you encourage your puppy to always pick on your things, he or she will think they've won. This sends a wrong message and cultivates a habit that is a sign of poor pet-parenting. You want your dog to listen to you and not the other way around. Successful and effective puppy training is essential.
4. Give your puppy cool treats During the teething process, it's very likely your puppy's gums are sore and inflamed. By giving your puppy cool treats, you can reduce that inflammation and redness drastically. It's best to consult a vet before you make this into a daily habit. But in general, puppies enjoy licking ice cubes until it melts completely in your palms. This can also soothe the pup's gums and alleviate pain.
5. Do not feed hard food It's best to switch your puppy's diet from dry kibble to moist. You can always feed your dog a combination of both. But teething is a painful time for a puppy. So you want to keep things as natural and as easy as possible. As for treats, you can always add frozen fruits like strawberries and bananas. They make great and healthy alternatives to store-bought treats. Another advantage of feeding your dog veggies and fruits is it creates a healthy habit. If your puppy is used to having healthy treats from a young age, you don't have to worry about having a fussy dog to feed!
Final Thoughts Puppy teething is not the same for all puppies. Every puppy's teething process is different. But these are some general must-know tips for proper care. You can buy your pup plenty of enjoyable chewable toys. Maintain a healthy diet and proper training. And make sure you do not feed your puppy something that will aggravate their condition. This also calls for a positive bonding moment with you and your dog. A well-behaved and calm dog is also a happy dog. And take your time to understand what your puppy needs at such a tender age. And make sure you keep your pup stress-free and relaxed.
Dogs are remarkable creatures. From the tip of their cold noses to the ends of their wagging tails, canine anatomy is as beautiful and graceful as it is unique and fascinating. The mouth, teeth and skull of dogs are incredibly well adapted to meet the needs of one of nature's most perfectly designed scavengers. The oral cavity of the dog is also the source of many myths and misunderstandings that lead to some potentially serious problems. Here are some of the most common, interesting and important dental questions:
How many teeth do dogs have? The average adult dog has about a third more teeth than his human counterpart. Adult dogs have 42 permanent teeth compared to a measly 32 average human teeth, not counting any wisdom teeth. Those are "bonus." Puppies possess 28 baby teeth while human babies will have 20 deciduous or "baby" teeth.
When do dogs begin to lose their baby teeth? Puppies begin losing baby teeth around 12 to 16 weeks of age. By four months of age, almost all of a pup's deciduous teeth have been shed and many of the permanent teeth have already erupted and are in place.
Can you tell how old a dog is by looking at his teeth? The answer is, it depends. When dogs are young, you can estimate their age by observing which teeth have erupted. For example, a puppy's deciduous incisors typically erupt between 4 to 6 weeks of age and the permanent incisors are in place by 12 to 16 weeks. The canines or "fang teeth" emerge at 3 to 5 weeks and the permanent canines by 12 to 16 weeks. By the time the permanent molars are present, the dog is 4 to 6 months old. In general, once a dog reaches six months of age, all or least most of his permanent teeth are visible.
Once the adult teeth are in place by about 6 months, it's anyone's guess. That could lead to a three-year old stray dog mistakenly being categorized as a senior dog on the basis of worn teeth, resulting in a lower chance of adoption. Not good. I believe this myth of aging dogs by their teeth started with horses. Horses' teeth erupt over a five-year period - "full mouth at five", wear at somewhat established rates and you can get a ballpark guess of the age of a horse by careful examination of teeth. The same isn't true for man's best friend. Or man. Guessing a dog's age must include much more than simply the current state of his teeth.
Can dogs regrow adult teeth if they lose them? This is a common myth I'm asked about by many dog owners. Unlike species such as sharks, dogs can't regrow lost or damaged teeth. If they lose an adult tooth, they lose it forever, just as in humans. This is why it's so important to take good care of your pets' teeth. They've got to last a lifetime. Conversely, I see absolutely no reason for a shark to have its teeth brushed.
Do dogs get cavities? Dental caries or "cavities" as they are more commonly known, are rare in dogs. This is due to many factors including a relatively low-sugar diet, differences in mouth bacteria, and the shape of the teeth. When cavities do occur, they can be treated the same way as human cavities: drill out the damaged part of the tooth and fill it with a special dental compound. In severe cases involving tooth root exposure, endodontic procedures will be performed such as root canal and capping. Extraction of the affected tooth is required in certain cases. Another good reason to provide dental care for your dog.
Do small or large dogs have more problems with their teeth? Dogs both large and small can develop serious oral and periodontal problems. In small dogs with short snouts and cramped jaws, we tend to see more issues with plaque, tartar, and dental calculus buildup. This leads to gum and periodontal disease and eventually painful loose teeth. Small dogs may chip and break tiny teeth if permitted to gnaw on hard toys. Larger breeds tend to experience more traumatic injuries to teeth and gums such as fractured tooth tips, broken jaws, and worn tooth surfaces. If the tooth root becomes exposed, this results in severe pain and death of the tooth. Larger dogs can also develop the same plaque and tartar buildup as well as the gum and periodontal disease of their smaller siblings.
How can I tell if my dog has gum disease? Start by lifting your dog's lips. If you see dirty or discolored teeth, typically an ugly brownish-greenish color, see your veterinarian. This is likely tartar or plaque and is an early sign of imminent gum or periodontal disease. Next examine the gums for any swelling or redness. If you brush your fingertip along the gum line and observe the tissues become angry and inflamed or even bleed, this indicates more serious gum infection and disease. Finally, take a whiff. If your dog's breath is fetid and foul, this is usually associated with bacterial infection. "Doggie breath" shouldn't be a reason to avoid your dog. Remember that sweet smelling "puppy breath?" A dog with a healthy mouth should have pleasant or at least neutral odor. If your dog exhibits any of these signs, see your veterinarian for help.
What's that really big tooth in the middle of my dog's upper jaw? The largest tooth in a dog's mouth is the upper fourth premolar also known as the carnassial tooth. Its special shape and tooth surface is designed to help shear, crush and hold. This is why you see dogs grasp chew toys with the side of their mouth, chomping feverishly. This is also why you have to replace so many chew toys. Next time blame the carnassial teeth instead of your dog.
I heard that dogs could get mouth cancer. Is that true? Unfortunately oral tumors are diagnosed in many dogs. In fact, it's estimated that one in four dogs will die of some form of cancer. Malignant oral tumors in dogs can be very aggressive and quickly spread throughout the body if untreated. If you observe any swelling, lumps, or dark and unusual colored tissue in your dog's mouth, have it examined immediately. If diagnosed early, many oral cancers have a relatively good prognosis.
I've tried many times to brush my dog's teeth with no success. She seems to hate it. Is there anything else I can do to take better care of my dog's teeth? You are not alone. In fact, I've written many articles over the past ten years on how I personally struggle with this very basic procedure in my own pets. I don't brush my dog's teeth every day, either. So what do I do? First, I have all my pets' teeth professionally cleaned under anesthesia once a year by one of my specially trained veterinary technicians. This is perhaps the single most important thing a pet parent can do for their pet when they can't brush the teeth daily. While they are under, I also take oral x-rays to make sure there are no hidden problems lurking out of sight underneath the gums. Next, I make sure to provide my dogs with chew treats approved by the Veterinary Oral Health Council (VOHC) to help remove plaque and tartar. Many have special ingredients embedded in them that help reduce harmful mouth bacteria. I regularly rinse both my dogs' mouths with an antimicrobial rinse designed to kill pathogenic bacteria that can cause gum infection. This also helps leave their breath highly kissable. Finally, at least once a week I take a peek inside my dogs' mouths to make sure everything looks, and smells, healthy. See, taking care of your dog's mouth isn't so hard after all!
Periodontal Disease is a MAJOR Issue Most owners do not realise how important dental hygiene is for their dogs. Periodontal disease - also known as gum disease, is actually the most common condition that vets have to deal with in both cats and dogs. It is even suggested that as much as 80% of dogs over the age of three are suffering from the condition in some form. While the condition can vary from very mild to severe, by having a regular dental hygiene plan for your dog, you will minimise the risk of any problems starting, or escalating out of control. Severe periodontal disease can lead to a buildup of plaque and tartar causing infection and this can mean that the dog can be in a lot of pain and possibly lose teeth. There is also a risk that the bacteria can transfer into the dog's bloodstream and this can have a potentially serious impact on some of the major internal organs.
Prevention is Better than Cure Dealing with a serious case of periodontal disease can be costly, it is often not covered by insurance policies, and, of course, your pet is at risk of severe discomfort or pain which is actually completely preventable. Rather than waiting until the problem is there and has to be dealt with, taking steps to minimise the chances of any treatment being required in the first place is the most sensible plan. There are lots of things that you can do to help make sure your dog maintains pearly whites, including feeding a high quality, non-sugary diet, using dental chews and toys, feeding raw meaty bones, and using supplements to add to food or water. Some things are proven to be more effective than others. It is widely accepted, however, that nothing beats toothbrushing for being an effective way to keep your dog's teeth in great condition. It is important to remember that often periodontal disease has already set in before you even realise. Sometimes it can impact on the tooth below the gumline so it is not yet visible to the naked eye. By using a brush to clean your dog's teeth this will be accessing areas that you couldn't if you are just wiping the surface. Nothing beats toothbrushing in terms of keeping your dog's teeth free of tartar and plaque build up.
Make it Part of Your Daily Dog Care Ritual A lot of people comment that daily toothbrushing seems over the top and that they have difficulty getting their dog to sit through the process, or if they do, they can't keep them still long enough for the brushing to have any positive impact. If we brush our own teeth daily to keep them healthy, why wouldn't we do the same with our dogs? Getting into the habit is half the battle, a bit like with their grooming regime too. Why not just make it part of your own bedtime regime? Before you get your own toothbrush out, grab theirs. It literally only takes a few minutes a day, and it could save a whole heap of pain, hassle and expense in the future. You don't need to do it everyday either, two to four times a week is generally what is recommended.
Getting Your Dog Used to Having Their Teeth Brushed Okay, so understandably, most dogs are not keen on having a toothbrush shoved inside their mouth and unceremoniously bashed around in there. If you put a bit of work in at the beginning to teach them that it can be a positive experience, it will make things so much less of a chore and much more effective going forward. There are some dogs that, once they taste the meaty flavor that some toothpaste have, they will accept the routine no bother. If that is your dog, lucky you! Most of the time a routine has to be built up gradually, and ideally, this should be done from when they are a puppy, unless, of course, you have adopted an adult dog. Regardless, the training approach should be the same. Start with just bringing the toothbrush out and showing it to your dog. When they look at it, they should get a super tasty little treat. Put it out of their sight again. When it reappears, again give them a food reward. Repeat this a number of times in the session. Your goal is to have them get excited when the brush comes out as they are anticipating a treat.
To really maximize their positive association at this stage, you could do a couple of sessions like this, lasting just a few minutes, over the next couple of nights. The next stage is to get them comfortable with the toothbrush making contact with their mouth. Pick a toothpaste that has a flavor that you know that they like. Have a few sessions where you just let them lick the toothpaste off the brush, without trying to put it inside their mouth. From here, you want to get them used to you lifting their lip to allow you better access to their teeth. Start with just lifting one side very gently and then rewarding them with a treat once they have let you do this. You can build up the length of time you are holding the lip up for too. Then work on doing that with the other side. Once they are comfortable with this step, you can move on to lifting the lip and then starting to brush. Start with just a very short brush of one or two teeth and reward your dog if they have sat for this. You can build up the amount of time you brush for very gradually.
It may seem like a bit of a kerfuffle but putting the time in to build up the exposure gradually can make it a much less stressful experience for you both in the long run. Always make sure you use a doggy appropriate toothbrush, they usually have softer bristles than some human brushes. Find one that works best for you and your dog, some people like those that fit on top of the finger, others find a bigger one more effective, especially if your dog has a long, strong jaw. Never force your dog into having their teeth brushed, it can make them afraid, turn things into a battle, and possibly lead them to become aggressive if they are very frightened - always build things up gradually and positively!
NEVER Use Human Toothpaste for Your Dog Don't be tempted to use your own toothpaste to save a bit of money or hassle. Not only can the frothing variety be a weird sensation for your dog and they don't know how to spit and rinse, but, more importantly, they can contain ingredients that are problematic and sometimes even toxic for your dog. Some human toothpastes contain artificial sweeteners to give them a palatable flavour. If they contain Xylitol, which is perfectly safe for humans, this is highly toxic for dogs and ingesting too much of this ingredient can actually be fatal for your dog. Fluoride is also bad for dogs in high doses too.
Why Do So Many Toothpastes Contain Enzymes? You may have noticed if you have been searching for a toothpaste for your pooch previously, that lots of the products mention that they contain enzymes or that they are "enzymatic". This isn't just marketing speech to get you to buy the product. Enzymes can have a beneficial purpose, helping to break down the bacteria, and this is often the type of toothpaste that your vet will encourage you to purchase for your dog.
Which Toothpaste is Best? So, we should start by saying that there is not one "best" toothpaste on the market. There are some that are more effective in their cleaning properties, some that have a more palatable flavour, and there are some that may suit an individual dog's digestion better than others. It can be a bit of trial and error to find what works best for your dog, but there are some doggy toothpastes on the market that are more widely regarded as being effective and safe than others. This list relates to six toothpastes that are consistently well-reviewed, but it does not necessarily mean they will be the best for your dog.
1. Petrodex Enzymatic Toothpaste for Dogs - A Top Seller If you are looking for a doggy toothpaste that has been tried and tested by thousands of dog owners, then this may be the option to go for. Petrodex has over 2.500 five star reviews on Amazon. It is an enzymatic toothpaste and it has a palatable poultry flavoring and, for those on a budget, it is one of the best value for money options in this list too. For those that prefer to buy from a company that manufacturers in the USA, then this one is a good choice too. Some users have complained that they do not think it smells pleasant but, if it works, then does it really matter if it gives your dog a minty fresh breath smell?
2. Vet's Best Enzymatic Dog Toothpaste - A Great Natural Option If you always like to purchase products for your dog that have natural ingredients, then the Vet's Best toothpaste could be a good option. It doesn't get as many 5 star reviews as the Petrodex toothpaste, but it is still well-reviewed. Because this product comes in a gel format, rather than a paste, it is designed to adhere to the tooth a little better and longer and, if your dog is not keen on vigorous brushing, a little of this put along the gum line will likely be better than nothing. This one doesn't have a meaty flavoring so, while it may not be as palatable for some dogs, for those owners that can't stand the meaty breath that some dogs have after brushing with the poultry flavored toothpaste, they may prefer to try this option. The tube isn't as big as the Petrodex one, so it works out at slightly more expensive, but it is still a very good value option.
3. Vetoquinol Enzadent Enzymatic Toothpaste - A Super Palatable Option The Vetoquinol toothpaste is made by a respected USA manufacturer that has been in the business for many years now. It is very well-reviewed, with hardly anyone having anything negative to say about it. It is also one of the toothpaste that comes out on top in the palatability test. Most dogs seem to love the taste, and that makes things a lot easier when trying to brush their teeth. If they associated the task with something so tasty, hopefully, it will make them less likely to run away when the toothbrush comes out! It is certainly not the cheapest of the options on our list though, and it works out at over double the price of the Vets Best option. A little does go a long way though, so you shouldn't have to buy toothpaste too regularly, even if you are brushing your dog's teeth the recommended 2 - 4 times a week. It is also one that is marketed as being safe for use with dogs and cats, so, if you also have a feline friend in your household, it saves having to buy two different types.
4. Oxyfresh Pet Dental Gel - Teams Up as an Aid for Dealing with Hot Spots The Oxyfresh product is another gel consistency, and it is one that doesn't actually have any flavor. This can be good if you have a dog that doesn't seem to enjoy the taste of a standard toothpaste. It does mean though that you should have even more tasty treat rewards at the ready though to continue to make sure your dog associates toothbrushing with something nice. The product contains Aloe Vera and this can be good if your dog has any minor gum wound, and some dog owners even use it to apply to a hot spot or small wound on the body of their dog. The aloe vera can help to soothe and promote healing.
5. Petsmile Professional Dog Toothpaste - The One Awarded by the Veterinary Oral Health Council (VOHC) This is the most expensive of all the toothpaste listed here, but it is one that has gone through full clinical trials and contains a tested ingredient called Calprox, and it is the only toothpaste to be awarded by the Veterinary Oral Health Council. This means you can be reassured that you are getting a product that is known for being effective. The beef flavoring also means that your dog will likely enjoy the taste too.
6. ZPAW Dental Wipes for Dogs and Cats - An Alternative to Using a Brush and Contains Chlorhexidine If your dog really does not tolerate the toothbrush well, then using less invasive wipes may be an alternative option. They will never clean as effectively as a toothbrush, but it is certainly better than just giving up. These wipes also contain an ingredient called Chlorhexidine and this is something that has been clinically proven to be an effective anti-plaque antiseptic. Even if your dog does tolerate toothbrushing, some owners choose to use these once or twice a week, alongside their toothbrushing regime for extra dental care.
BEST DOG TEETH CLEANING PRODUCTS & REMEDIES This article proudly presented by WWW.DOGTARTAR.COM
Many dog owners neglect the tartar buildup on their dog's teeth and also their dog's bad breath because they think it's not a serious problem. But that isn't correct. Dog tartar can lead to serious health problems in dogs, persistent bad breath being one of them. So in this article, we will have a look at some of the best dog teeth cleaning products that will help you maintain proper oral hygiene of your dog. No doubt your vet is the best person to diagnose your dog's dental health. But doing a bit of dog dental care at home. yourself, will surely extend the duration between the costly visits to the vet.
Remember: Schedule an appointment with your veterinarian for a comprehensive dental checkup of your dog at least once a year.
Best dog teeth cleaning products from each of the following categories.
A. Dog Toothpastes
B. Dog Toothbrushes
C. Dental Sprays for Dogs
D. Dental Gel for Dogs
E. Water Additives for Dogs
DOG TOOTHPASTES An effective dog toothpaste is probably the first thing you should consider buying when you are trying to set up a dental care routine for your dog. A good quality dog toothpaste is necessary for maintaining good oral hygiene. Never use regular human toothpaste on dogs as it contains fluoride which is poisonous to dogs. Always use a toothpaste that is specially formulated for dogs. Here are a couple of things you should check before buying a dog toothpaste:
Is it safe for puppies as well as adult dogs in case it's ingested?
Does it cause any side effects or allergies?
Is the dog toothpaste approved and certified by the vet's association?
1. PETRODEX ENZYMATIC DOG TOOTHPASTE POULTRY FLAVOR Dog owners who have purchased Petrodex Enzymatic Dog Toothpaste in the past, have seen their dog's teeth become considerably whiter after using the product regularly for just a couple of weeks. Slowly but surely, this toothpaste helps in removing the tartar build-up on the dog's teeth. It also helps in dealing with the redness in gums. It does not produce foam and so does not require rinsing dog's mouth after the brushing session. Petrodex Enzymatic Dog Toothpaste does a pretty awesome job of cleaning dog's teeth and dog tartar removal. A single tube of Petrodex Dog Toothpaste should easily last a couple of months if used once a day to brush dog's teeth. But to be fair, this depends on the amount of toothpaste you use for each dog teeth cleaning session.
2. VIRBAC C.E.T. DOG TOOTHPASTE This is another great dental care product for dogs that is manufactured in USA. The Virbac C.E.T. Dog Toothpaste is fluoride free and non-foaming, and is safe to swallow for your dogs. It is specially formulated to provide natural antibacterial action and to deter the formation of plaque on dog's teeth. It also helps eliminate dog tartar and bad dog breath. For best results with Virbac C.E.T. Dog Toothpaste, brush the dog's teeth at least once a day. One tube should easily last for about 45 days. But again it depends on how much you use for each dog teeth brushing session. Even though it does not come bundled with a dog toothbrush, the effectiveness of this toothpaste alone is totally worth the cost.
DOG TOOTHBRUSH Brushing a dog's teeth everyday helps keep tartar and plaque at bay and also prevents that nasty dog breath. Having a good quality dog toothbrush and an effective dog toothpaste is a must for dog teeth cleaning at home. There are hundreds of dog toothbrushes available for you to choose from. But we make the task easier for you by selecting the top two dog toothbrushes which we feel are better than the rest. Check the following before you buy a dog toothbrush:
Is the toothbrush specially designed for dogs?
Are the bristles on the toothbrush soft?
What is size of the toothbrush head? Is it too small or too big for your dog?
And lastly, you should know how co-operative your dog is and whether he would get his teeth cleaned without any resistance?
Remember: Do not use a normal toothbrush to clean dog's teeth !!!
The hard bristles can cause bleeding of gums and make the whole process of teeth cleaning painful for your dog. As a result, the dog will associate the teeth brushing session with pain and show more resistance in getting its teeth cleaned.
1. DUAL HEADED DOG TOOTHBRUSHES These Dual Headed Dog Toothbrushes from Legacy Pet Supplies will do an excellent job irrespective of the size of your dog's teeth. This product comes as a set of two toothbrushes, both dual headed. smaller head at one end and a bigger head at the opposite end. The extra soft bristles on this toothbrush make the dog teeth cleaning sessions painless and more comfortable for the dogs. The length of the brush along with the dual heads make it easy to get into the hard to reach places in the dog's mouth. The only concern we had with this product were a few reviews about the bristles falling off the toothbrush. But this problem can be easily handled by asking the vendor for replacement and does not stop it from being the best-selling dog toothbrush in this category.
2. C.E.T. PET TOOTHBRUSH This is one of the bestsellers in the pet toothbrush category. Unlike the dual headed dog toothbrush, we discussed above, the C.E.T. Pet Toothbrush has a single small head with soft bristles and is a hit with smaller size dogs. The small head is perfectly angled to reach and clean the back of the dog's teeth. And the soft bristles help to clean and massage the gums gently. This dog toothbrush is about 6"-7" long and is small enough to fit inside your pet's mouth. The only disadvantage of this wonderful dog toothbrush is that its tiny. It is perfect for small to medium sized dog. But if you have a large breed of dog, it will probably be too small to use.
DOG TOOTH CLEANING SPRAY The best dog dental care at home you can do is by brushing your dogs teeth everyday using a quality dog toothbrush and an effective dog toothpaste. But we all know that this requires time commitment, and not all dog owners can manage to brush their dog's teeth every day. The best dog teeth cleaning products in such situations are dental sprays for dogs. When your dog's teeth are not brushed regularly they are prone to plaque and tartar formation, which causes bad breath. With a dog dental spray, all it takes is a couple of sprays in your dog's mouth and that's it. You don't need to brush his teeth or do anything else. The formula in the dog dental spray will mix with the dog's saliva and work its magic. Make sure to check the following points before you buy any dental spray for your dog:
Does the spray have alcohol content?
Does it cause nausea or allergies in dogs?
Does it have any other ingredients that are known to cause problems in dogs?
1. NATURAL BREATH FRESHENER AND TEETH AND GUM CLEANER FOR DOGS This wonderful smelling dental spray for dogs is manufactured in US. The all natural formula in the dental spray helps in dog tartar removal, giving your dog a cleaner, fresher and healthier mouth. This natural breath freshener does not contain alcohol that is known to cause problems in some dogs. It also acts as a teeth and gum cleaner. The manufacturers recommend that the product be sprayed into your dog's mouth 4 times around teeth and gums. No brushing is required after spraying the solution. Most dog owners have reported reduced bad breath in their dogs after using the product daily for just a couple of weeks. For faster and much better results, you can use this dental spray for dogs along with regular dog teeth brushing sessions. You can setup a dog teeth cleaning routine at home that suits you the best. For example, you can brush your dog's teeth in the morning using a toothbrush and a toothpaste and in the evening you can use the spray, or you can brush the teeth and use the dog dental spray on alternate days.
2. NYLABONE ADVANCED ORAL CARE SPRAY Dog dental sprays are good to use between brushings. And when you combine them with regular dog teeth cleaning sessions, you will have a dog with perfect oral health. The Nylabone Advanced Dental Spray for Dogs is another effective product for dog dental care. Manufactured in the US, Nylabone Advanced Oral Care Dental Spray is recommended by vets and helps freshen your dog's breath and soothes minor gum irritation. It is formulated with Denta-C, which according to Nylabone, is scientifically proven to reduce plaque that harbors bacteria. Nylabone Advanced Oral Care Spray controls bad breath and reduces plaque. This is one of the best pet teeth cleaning products that safely breaks the tartar buildup on dog's teeth and helps in dog tartar removal. To achieve the best results, spray the solution directly onto dog's teeth and gums 1 to 2 times per day. This product comes in a 4-fluid-ounce spray bottle so that should last you for a good 45 days. Many dog owners who have used this dog teeth cleaning spray have said that their dogs don't resist it.
DENTAL GEL FOR DOGS Dog dental gels are definitely one of the best alternatives out there to clean a dog's teeth. Dog dental gels are easy to apply and are an effective solution for dog tartar removal and preventing bad dog breath. The only thing you need to do while using any dental gels for dogs, is not to give any food, water or treats to the dog for at least 30 minutes. Else the dental gel won't be much effective. Also make sure that you read the product label carefully before using the dog dental gels on your dog teeth.
1. TROPICLEAN FRESH BREATH PLAQUE REMOVER PET CLEAN TEETH GEL Dog toothbrushes are no longer a must to keep your dog's teeth clean! This dog teeth cleaning gel contains a proprietary blend of natural, holistic ingredients that will not only clean your dog's teeth but also refresh your dog's breath. Apply 2 drops of gel either side of the dog's mouth before bedtime. You will start seeing improvement in your dog's oral health after daily application for a couple of weeks. This dog teeth cleaning gel from Tropiclean is perfectly safe and can be used on dogs of all age. Now that you know what this dog dental gel can do for your pet, don't you want to know the secret behind its effectiveness? Well, the secret lies in the ingredients used in making this gel. This dog teeth cleaning product from Tropiclean contains decaffeinated Green Tea Leaf Extract which works as a natural source of fluoride and helps in fighting bacteria that cause plaque and tartar build up. Some dogs may show resistance during the application of this gel due to its strong tasting mint flavor. So if your dog runs away at the sight of the bottle, maybe it's time for you to look for other dog teeth cleaning products. Warning: Be careful if you are applying the gel with your fingers. You can be seriously injured if the canine is not used to this process.
2. VET'S BEST DENTAL GEL Vet's Best Dog Dental Care Gel is another amazing product for cleaning dog's teeth that's made in the US. It helps in dog tartar removal and fights bacteria that cause bad dog breath. It uses key natural ingredients like neem oil, grapefruit seed extract, aloe and enzymes that clean the teeth. Apply the dogs dental gel using a finger toothbrush or a normal dog toothbrush 2-3 times a week to get quick and optimal results. Some dog owners who purchased this product have complained about the bottle being too hard to squeeze. But is that really a concern as the content in the bottle is effective for dog tartar removal? We don't think so. Other than that, Vet's Best Dental Gel for Dogs is highly recommended.
WATER ADDITIVES FOR DOGS If you are dealing with bad dog breath and want to eliminate that horrible smell coming from your dog's mouth without much efforts on your part, water additives for dogs are your best bet. These additives when mixed with your dogs' drinking water, improve your dog's breath and break down plaque build-up on dog's teeth. If you are serious about your dog's dental health, a good water additive is a must have. Now with so many dog water additives out there, how to pick the right one? Well, we have made it easy for you. When it comes to the best products to clean a dog's teeth, the following two water additives for dogs are most liked and recommended. These short reviews should help you make an informed decision. Although using a water additive for dogs is great, it's also recommended to brush your dog's teeth at least twice a week for better results.
1. PETRODEX ENZYMATIC DOG TOOTHPASTE POULTRY FLAVOR Nylabone are famous for their line of quality dog teeth cleaning products, and their Advanced Oral Care Liquid Tartar Remover is one of the best water additive for dogs you can buy. It contains Denta-C, a scientifically-formulated blend of ingredients that results in reduced plaque on dog's teeth and makes your dog's breath fresh. and reduce the risk of developing oral disease. All you need to do is combine one tablespoon of Nylabone Dog Water Additive with 32 oz. of water and let your dog drink it. This water additive is available in 4 oz. bottle, 16 oz. bottle and 32 oz. bottle.
2. EMMY'S BEST PREMIUM PET WATER ADDITIVE This is another great water additive for dogs that helps in dog tartar removal, fighting plaque buildup on canines teeth and effectively eliminating dog bad breath. Its formula will wipe out bad breath causing bacteria and keep your dog's mouth clean, healthy and smelling good. Just add 1-2 tablespoons of this dog water additive to its drinking water and let it do the rest. Your four legged friend will like the minty taste of the water and start drinking more water than usual. As a result, you will have no reason not to kiss your dog more often without experiencing bad dog breath.
THE CONCLUSION Try these remedie, combine them, and let us know what kind of results you achieved. We are looking forward to your testimonials, reviews and success stories. Brush your dog's teeth if you can, if your dog resists, not a big deal! You have other options to try. It sounds like a hard thing to do, but trust me it is way better than spending hundreds of dollars at your vet every time you need to get your dogs teeth cleaned. Don't be responsible for serious health issues in your dog by neglecting your dogs dental health. Every time your dog comes and licks you and you feel its fresh breath, every time it brings you a shoe or gives a ball back, every time your vet tells you that your dog is perfectly healthy, you will know that every dollar you spent on dog's dental care products was well worth it.
Generally, dogs dislike the taste of dog toothpastes. The dog is usually able to keep the inside surface of his teeth relatively clean with his tongue and saliva. However, the surface facing the cheeks is tough for him to take care of. This is where you should concentrate your efforts.
Just like us, dogs also must be maintained in order to keep their teeth clean by brushing teeth regularly to keep your dog's dental health is maintained. Canine teeth are not cleaned can lead to bad breath, gum disease, tartar formed and excessive plaque buildup and discoloration and tooth abscess. Many studies have shown that the infectious agents that cause disease of the gums, teeth and mouth can spread to other organs through the bloodstream.
A study has found a direct link between a dog's mouth is dirty with heart disease in older dogs. In other words, if you do not clean the dog's teeth on a regular basis then your dog will be at risk of heart disease.
DON'T EVER USE HUMAN TOOTHPASTE!
Dogs can't spit out toothpaste and our toothpaste is not made to be swallowed. If you use human toothpaste on your dog's teeth it will harm your dog's stomach. Make sure you get toothpaste and a toothbrush specifically for dogs!
Let your dog get familiar with the toothbrush and tooth paste. Let your dog sniff the brush, see the tube of toothpaste, and even taste the toothpaste before you begin.
Let your dog get familiar with your finger brush being in his or her mouth or the toothbrush depending on what method you decide to use.
Brushing your dog's teeth should be done every day, but in fact there are some dog owners who have busy so not had time to do it every day. At least you can brush your dog's teeth regularly 1-2 times a week. The dog was introduced to brushed his teeth since he was a child so that the dog will get used to and feel comfortable with this treatment.
Dogs who are not accustomed to brushing teeth since a child usually refuses to brush his teeth and this will certainly make it difficult for you. Dogs should be brushed his teeth by the time he was in a state of calm and relaxed. Never force a dog to brush his teeth if he refused. The technique of brushing the dog's teeth right is as follows:
1. Prepare in advance tools and materials that will be used to brush your dog's teeth. Equipment and materials used for brushing dog's teeth is not so complicated, just with a special toothbrush for dogs or can also use a small toothbrush for kids as well as a special toothpaste for dogs. Do not use human toothpaste is used because it is spicy and too strong for the dog and not all of the ingredients in human toothpaste has been secured for the dog.
2. Create a position that makes your dog feel comfortable. You can tell your dog to sit in front of you or put your dog on your lap (specifically for small breed dogs). In addition, you can also kneel / sit in front of your dog or at the side. If your dog feels uncomfortable and angry try to stop and do it again at another time.
3. Try it first introduced a toothpaste that will be used to dogs. Put a little toothpaste on your finger tips. Let the dog lick the toothpaste on the tip of your finger so that the dog becomes accustomed to the texture and taste of the toothpaste. If the dogs enjoy dog toothpaste means love and you can use toothpaste when brushing the dog's teeth.
4. Lift your dog's lips gently and carefully so that the teeth can be seen Then start brushing your dog's teeth by using a special toothbrush that has been smeared with dog toothpaste. When you brush your dog's teeth position angle of the bristles of the toothbrush reaches the gum line, and put the toothbrush at a 45 degree angle to the teeth. This helps so that the bristles can massage the gum line and plaque on the teeth can be cleaned. Brushing your dog's teeth can also be done with a circular motion starting from the top and bottom on each side of the tooth.
5. As long as you brush your dog's teeth, talk with a soft voice at your dog to keep him comfortable. When the dog began to feel uncomfortable and angry then try to stop it and can be resumed at a later time.
6. When finished brushing all the teeth of dogs, give praise to your dog and the treatment that makes it fun like caressing it in the jaw or gently patting the head.
HOW TO HELP YOUR DOG TO GET USED TO TOOTHBRUSHING This article proudly presented by WWW.AKC.ORG and WWW.DOGSNATURALLY MAGAZINE.COM and Mary Burch, Phd, AMERICAN KENNEL CLUB
1. Choose a calm time to brush your dog's teeth. It should be you and the dog without a living room for of active children or other pets.
2. Buy a canine toothbrush. These are available at pet stores or online pet supply outlets. They have a longer, curved handle that makes it easy to reach the back teeth. Only use toothpaste that is specifically for dogs. While it works well for us, human toothpaste can irritate your dog's stomach.
3. Choose the location for brushing your dog's teeth. Make sure you have good lighting.
4. Touch the teeth and gums without the brush. Can you do this initial step? Ideally, your pup has been in AKC S.T.A.R. Puppy and Canine Good Citizen classes and is used to have his mouth handled. Lift the top lip up and hold it while you touch the teeth; then pull the bottom lip down and touch the bottom teeth.
5. Touch the toothbrush to the teeth. Touch the front, side, and back teeth on the top and bottom. Praise and reward your dog for tolerating this step.
6. Introduce the toothpaste to the dog. Start by showing the dog the toothpaste and letting him lick it from your finger.
7. Add the toothpaste to the toothbrush.
8. Start brushing the top teeth. Hold the upper lip up. Brush the front teeth. Praise your dog.
9. Move from the front teeth further back to the side and back teeth on the top.
10. Start brushing the bottom teeth. Hold down the bottom lip and brush the bottom teeth. Start with the front teeth, then move to the side and back.
11. On the bottom teeth, now brush the sides and back. If your dog is tolerating toothbrushing, you can brush both the outside and inside of the teeth when you are brushing. The inside of the teeth will be a little harder to brush, so if necessary, work on adding this step after your dog is calm with the outsides of the upper and lower teeth being brushed.
12. Praise and treats. Getting their teeth brushed is unnatural for dogs. To make this a positive experience, frequently praise your dog. You can also give the dog a treat at each step. This seems counterintuitive because you are cleaning the teeth and then giving some food. However, the initial goal is teaching the skill and you can fade the food later.
STOP DOG BITING This material proudly presented by Copyright 2011 Dog Training Institute.
Unfortunately, dogs lack opposable thumbs and can't use a toothbrush. You certainly do not want to hurt any doggy feelings, because dogs are people, too. But never fear. The answer to freshening your dog's breath is actually quite simple.
Dental hygiene is about good maintenance and health. Check to see if there are any broken teeth or other signs of ill health while you are inspecting your dog's mouth. Dogs are known to damage teeth by experimenting with rocks as food, chewing on hard bones, or by catching Frisbees, sticks and other hard objects.
The good news is that by making teeth cleanings a routine, you'll catch any dental problems before they become severe. Early detection is good news for everyone, as it may save your dog's teeth, it will probably even save you a large vet bill. Make brushing your dog's teeth a part of the weekly grooming process. Your dog will feel like the center of the universe, and you will be able to indulge in doggy kisses without bad dog breath again. It's a win-win situation.
To help prevent destructive chewing - Your best bet is to invest in some high-quality, durable toys that they can chew on instead. This is not necessarily as easy as it sounds. Labs are often such vigorous chewers that they can destroy your run-of-the-mill chew toys within minutes, even those that market themselves as "indestructible". Discover both how to choose and our recommendations for the best, toughest, durable dog toys suitable for heavy chewers.
First Things First: Safety is Key !!! Although durability and the "fun factor" are obviously important, safety is paramount when it comes to choosing toys, you don't want your Lab ingesting broken pieces of toy and causing themselves internal damage. Toughness is obviously important, so it stays intact while receiving a hammering from your Lab, but it also should not be too hard and put too much pressure on your dog's teeth either. Compromise is everything! Also important is the chew toy's material composition. Always opt for non-toxic materials as the toy will be spending a good amount of time in your dog's mouth. Obviously, we want to avoid swallowing chunks of toy as much as possible, but if they are going to have pieces floating through their digestive system, the toy should be made of non-toxic materials.
Do not try and second-guess your dog's power to destroy when it comes to choosing the best toys for them. That potent mix of boredom, willpower and determination in a Labrador can be destructive so make sure the toys you decide on are more than strong enough to withstand heavy chewing. Small parts dislocating from the toy or a seemingly shrinking size should make you put the toy straight in the bin - your dog should not be allowed to ingest parts of their toys. Huge numbers of toys are touted as "indestructible" nowadays and it's easy to fall for the persuasive sales rhetoric. Chances are, however, it is not indestructible and may even be demolished within mere minutes of meeting your Dog. It's best to take the indestructible moniker with a pinch of salt, and buy those on the advice of others who can attest to their toughness.
Avoid Plush, Vinyl & Lates Toys A soft, brown dog shaped stuffed dog toyMake sure that you avoid stuffed toys or those made of a plush material too. Yes, they are certainly cute, and often very cheap, but there's a reason for this: they will be eaten for breakfast (hopefully not literally!) by a vigorously chewing dog. Their durability is close to non-existent if you have a strong chewer. From a safety perspective too, plush toys are a no-no as an aggressive chewer can easily swallow the stuffing. Tread with even more caution if there is a squeaker stuffed inside, also they may are a clear choking hazard if the toy is pulled apart. Vinyl and Latex Don't Make the Grade Either. Though vinyl is a little tougher than latex, we wouldn't consider either material tough enough to withstand Labs who chew hard. They, too, often come stuffed with squeakers so if your dog is chewing on one, watch carefully that it doesn't come free from the toy.
BEST INDESTRUCTABLE DOG CHEWING TEETH TOYS The Original And Still The Best - Tough Dog Toys From Kong! Undoubtedly the market leaders, Kong toys were invented decades back in response to the founder's German Shepherd needing a tough toy to keep him entertained. The original "indestructible" dog toy brand, Kongs are super tough and ideal for aggressive chewers. There's such a huge variety of different toys on offer in the Kong range - you will certainly be able to find something perfect for your Lab. Many of them can even be stuffed with treats for some added fun!
Kong Extreme Dog Toy Ultra-strong, Ultra-Durable Touted as the world's strongest chew toy, the Extreme is perfect for the dog who continues to amaze you with how quickly they can destroy. It's universally popular with heavy chewers and is used even by police, drug enforcement and military K-9 teams, as well as the Schutzhund and AKC competition trainers. Made using carbon Black Ultra-Flex(tm), the Extreme is puncture-resistant and about as indestructible as a dog toy can be. It's non-toxic too and can even be stuffed with treats, which is guaranteed to keep your heavy chewer occupied, stave off boredom and ease any separation anxiety they may suffer from. For this reason, the Kong is also recommended for owners about to start crate training with their dogs. The Extreme also doubles up as an interactive toy to help you get involved in playtime, it has an unpredictable bounce on it due to its undulating curved design, which is perfect for games of fetch with playful pups.
Kong Wobbler Toy Tough AND Mentally Stimulating Living up to its name, the Wobbler toy is a fantastic plaything for your Lab as they try to control it and stop it wobbling, falling over and rolling away from them. Primarily a food dispenser, the Wobbler can be stuffed with your dog's kibble or favorite treat and occupy your dog for hours on end. This means it's a great toy to use with dogs that eat their food too quickly when it's set out in front of them in a bowl - the challenge of retrieving their food from the Wobbler will be enough to get them to slow down and savor. As always with Kong toys, durability and toughness is guaranteed with the US-made Wobbler. The real stand-out feature, however, is the fact your dog will be mentally and physically stimulated with the effort needed to retrieve the food and treats so boredom and destructive chewing will seem like a lifetime away. As an added bonus, the Wobbler is dishwasher safe and also has an easy twist off dispenser, just because your Lab may have a challenge getting the food out shouldn't mean you have a challenge getting it in!
Kong Wubba Toy Tough Toy For Fetch and Tug Moving away from the more traditional chew toys for a moment, here we have the perfect interactive toy for frolicking in the park with your Lab. The Wubba is a "tug'n'toss" toy, whereby you toss it, your pup chases and catches it, fetches it to you when you can then also use it for a game of tug. It's comprised of two balls – one of which is a squeaker and the other a tennis ball and some strong fabric "legs" which your pup will adore pulling and chewing on. Durability and toughness is key as always.
Kong - Dog Goodie Bone Extreme Durability Much like the original Extreme toy, the Extreme Goodie Bone is incredibly durable and tough, therefore perfect for the most aggressive of chewers. Shaped like a bone and made of super strong natural rubber, the Extreme Goodie Bone can also be stuffed with treats to keep a dog's mind busy, trying to work the treats out. This will ease boredom and stave off destructive chewing in your Lab as well as easing any separation anxiety they may suffer from. Made in the US of non-toxic materials, the Extreme Goodie Bone is also puncture resistant. One of the most interesting features of the toy is the patented "Goodie Grippers" to be found at each end of the bone where you can stuff the toy with treats. The "Goodie Grippers" make it harder for your dog to retrieve the food, which serves to increase the effort, both mental and physical, of your dog as they go to town on the toy. You are sure to return home to a tired, yet satisfied dog!
Kong Squeezz Toy Strong Squeaky Chew and Throw Stick What dog doesn't love a squeaky toy? Earlier we warned against toys with squeakers as they can become choking hazards if a dog manages to rip them apart. Thankfully, Kong toys are tough enough to withstand the most aggressive of chewers and the Squeez Stick, in particular, protects and recesses its squeaker very well. More of an interactive toy than a standard chew toy you would leave your dog at home alone with, the Squeez Stick has enough features to be a truly versatile toy. Made of non-toxic, thermo-plastic rubber, it is the perfect compromise for your Lab of chewy and durable while also able to bounce unpredictably and it floats on water too! This guarantees hours of fun, whether you are inside or outside, on dry land or near water. The Squeezz toys come in a variety of shapes, sizes and colors so you have plenty of options to find the perfect one for your dog.
Jolly Dog's Ball on a Rope An especially sturdy ball, the "Jolly" brand was initially started up to create ball toys for horses so it has a proven track record of creating products that stand up against strong teeth and hard chewing. After discovering how popular the balls were with heavy-chewing dog owners, a little tinkering helped adapt them to dogs' wants and needs and they have been appreciated by dogs and their owners ever since. The Jolly Ball with Rope is designed to be kicked, tugged, thrown, carried and launched, all of which equals a great ball toy for playing with outside! It won't deflate if your dog does puncture it and it also floats, which is ideal for keen swimmers. Made of non-toxic Polyethylene plastic, safe for both you and your Lab and sturdy rope for "tug and toss" games, this toy is heavy duty and durable. The Jolly Pet Balls are available in a variety of sizes and bright colors so you are sure to find the perfect fit for your pup.
Multipet Nuts for Knots Dog Tooth Toy As we discussed earlier, rope toys are perfect for heavy chewers due to their intense durability and safety-conscious material composition. This Nuts for Knots toy is just as tough and substantial as it looks and promises superior durability to other rope ball toys on the market. It has an impressively sturdy handle too so you can get involved in some seriously interactive games of tug of war with your dog. Perfect for large dogs like Labs, this Nuts for Knots Heavy Duty Toy is approximately the size of a shot put so is sure to keep your pup occupied for a serious amount of time.
Westpaw Ball for Agrressive chewers Dog Chewing Toy The clue is in the name with this ball toy - your heavy-chewing dog is not going to have an easy time destroying this virtually indestructible piece of equipment. Made in the US by "West Paw Design" with non-toxic, environmentally friendly and recyclable material, this ball is super tough and ideal for the most destructive of chewers. The manufacturers are so sure of it's durability that it comes with a 100% guarantee. Ideally shaped for an unpredictable roll or bounce, this toy is great for interactive throwing and rolling games. It also fits into the Chuckit Ball Thrower to really exercise your dog. The bright colors also make it stand out and easy to find when thrown on any surface. This ball is bound to be a hit with any pup.
Orbee - Durable Dog Teeth Toy The US made Orbee-Tuff SnowBall is incredibly tough and durable; so much so that Planet Dog are prepared to 100% guarantee its toughness "any time, every time". While you will be delighted at how long it lasts, your Lab will love the ball's captivating mint aroma and rough textured surface that makes chewing and playing with this toy a joy. This strong chew toy has other features that make it the perfect interactive play ball, such as its ability to bounce and float, for Labs that love to fetch and chew hard. Hollow on the inside, the ball has two small ventilation holes on the side that allow the ball to squish down once it's bitten on and then bounce back into position once it is been released so there's no need to worry about your Lab wearing their teeth down on hard plastic.
Goughnuts Toy for Heavy Chewers It's not a ball, but made in the US by mechanical and polymer engineers, this GoughNuts toy is an ideal throw toy for aggressive, powerful chewers. So confident are the inventors in the strength of their product that they guarantee the indestructibility of the toy and are willing to replace it if your dog manages to chew through the tough outer layer. GoughNuts have created a safety system within their product line whereby if your dog is chewing hard on the black colored outer material, that means they can continue to "GoughNuts" safely, but if they manage to chew through the black to the inner red colored material, the toy should be taken away and replaced. And if your dog chews through to the red layer, GoughNuts will replace the toy free of charge! Shaped like a ring donut, this toy will be a firm favorite with your Lab who will love chasing after it, picking it up and carrying it around in their mouth. The toy also floats so is a fun addition to your play routine if your pup is a keen swimmer.
It's cost efficient and safer to start thinking of a chew toy as an investment for a number of months or years so focus on quality materials and fun features that your Lab can't help but love. You can't go wrong with hard rubber and sturdy cotton rope and, if in doubt, always opt for the ultra-durable Kong & Rogz brands!
Puppies have an overwhelming urge to chew from the moment they leave the womb. It's how they first explore and learn about the world around them. It's completely natural. But wow! Does their chewing ever go into serious overdrive when teething begins! It's like an obsession and all they seem to live for.
But again, it's completely natural. They have sore, inflamed gums with teeth breaking through and the only relief they can find is to chew something, anything to soothe the pain. During this teething stage, many owners suffer the heartbreak of seeing their once lovely puppy start to destroy their home, gnawing their way through shoes, remote controls, furniture legs and more.
And anything a puppy can get away with that leads to a rewarding situation can easily turn into a life long habit as they seek that reward out time and time again. One of your jobs then is to manage the situation. To supervise and intervene when they start to chew the wrong things, your things and redirect them onto appropriate toys. So you're going to need a good selection of chew toys for teething puppies.
DOG TEETHBALL This article proudly presented by WWW.ROGZ.COM
A new creation has put a novel twist on what can sometimes become a tiring game of fetch for a dog owner. The Rogz Grinz ball, designed by Porky Hefer, features large grinning teeth so when the dog runs back with the ball, he will also greet his owner with a warm, toothy grin. Created by South African based company Rogz, the Grinz ball can be stuffed full of a dog's favourite treats, ensuring even the laziest of dogs will go after the toy.
Soft enough not to hurt your dog's teeth, but firm enough to bounce. The funniest, playful treat ball under the sun. It will have Fido grinning from ear to ear.
Terrifying muzzle designed to keep dog owners safe at night will transform your pooch into a menacing WEREWOLF
If you have ever felt nervous on a late night walk with your pet dog then this eye-catching and terrifying product may just be for you. Manufactured by a Russian company is a muzzle that can transform any angelic looking pooch into a menacing werewolf. Marina Kurulyova recently became an internet sensation after she posted a picture of her own dog, a giant Schanutzer, wearing the muzzle to the internet.
The muzzle is made of non-toxic plastic and nylon, is harmless for a dog to wear and permits the pooch to open its mouth and breathe easy. Black in colour and with a rather realistic dog nose, the muzzles also boast large bloodied teeth and a snout that appears to be snarling. The new accessory is designed to protect owners from would be attackers during late night walks with their dog in the park.
PUPPY TEETHING SYMPTOMS and CARE This article proudly presented by WWW.SMALL DOGPLACE.COM
Teething is a natural process and should pose any problems. Puppy Teething Symptoms are evident, but for most of us, they may be misinterpreted as annoying behavioral problems. With rare exceptions, most puppies are born without teeth. By three weeks of age, sooner for larger breed puppies, tiny teeth begin to emerge. First come the incisors, then the canine teeth and finally the premolars. There are no molars at this point.
The last premolar erupts between 8 and 12 weeks, usually about the same time that a puppy goes to his forever home. Puppies have 28 deciduous or baby teeth. Baby teeth remain until about five to eight months of age. After about three or four months, the pup begins to lose his baby teeth and the permanent teeth erupt in the same order as the baby teeth: incisors, canine teeth, premolars and eventually the molars. By the time the puppy is 8 months old, the teething process should be complete.
Teething in puppies is just a phase and all dogs do grow out of it. How we handle this pup development stage does have an impact on future behaviors. Once this phase is over, chewing should diminish, dogs should be less likely to nip on your fingers, and much of the destructive behaviors are gone.
If they are still present, it is time to consider them to be behavioral problems that should be addressed. A deciduous tooth should be lost before its permanent replacement appears. When a carnivore has both a permanent and deciduous tooth at the same site, it is referred to as a "retained deciduous tooth." These need to be removed surgically to prevent abnormal alignment of the permanent tooth.
Unlike human babies who are teething, puppies are not likely to cry, run a temperature or get clingy. Rather, you might just notice that the puppy would rather bite you than love up to you. If your puppy is drooling, biting, chewing, or bleeding from the gums, there is a good chance that he is in the throes of teething. There are some telltale signs your puppy might be teething.
Chewing Chew ToysPuppy Teething Symptoms can be reduced by giving them good chew toys. This is undoubtedly the most visible outward behavior. Chewing on anything, preferably chew toys, but most puppies will find other things to chew on as well. Your shoes, furniture, woodwork, sticks from outside, anything within reach is fair game. Chewing helps relieve some of the pain associated with new erupting teeth.
Bleeding or Swollen Gums First of all, do not panic! Bleeding is minimal and you might not even notice this sign, but a telltale sign is there are drops of pinkish blood on favorite toys. Teething can be painful and those drops of blood will help us remember that what the puppy is going through is not a bad behavior stage.
Drooling If you notice more saliva than usual, there is a good chance that new teeth are trying to erupt. Even if you don't notice the actual saliva, you will probably feel his wet face or see more wetness on his bed or wherever he sleeps.
Missing Teeth Sometimes you will see areas in your dog's mouth where a tooth has fallen out or you might even find the tiny baby tooth on the floor. Do not worry if you can't find these teeth, as many are swallowed without any problems.
Poor Appetite Puppy Teething Symptoms can include refusal to eat. Puppy Teething Symptoms can include refusal to eat. Some puppies lose their appetite or refuse to eat. You might confuse this behavior with some other health issue, but if they are otherwise healthy, the chances are that eating causes some pain.
Other Puppy Teething Symptoms: Sometimes they will run a low-grade temperature, cry or whimper. If you do take your puppy's temperature, remember that the normal canine temperature is 101 to 102 degrees Fahrenheit. Anything above that could suggest fever. Not all puppies have fever, cry or whimper.
Help Relieve Your Puppy's Distress There are some things you can do if you are aware that your puppy is teething. Stock the Toy Box to Reduce those Puppy Teething Symptoms !
Now is the time to stock up on puppy toys. Hard plastic toys, rope toys, Kongs, and other chews are all necessary at present and should be readily available. You might not want to put them all out at once but rather rotate them. The novelty will encourage the puppy to play with and chew on them more frequently.
Some dogs love soft toys such as stuffed animals or stuffless toys. These are also good to have around during the teething stage.
A lovely homemade toy that works well for teething is to braid some old rags together into a long rope toy. These can also be frozen for a different tactile sensation.
Dip a plastic toy in peanut butter or other tasty paste/liquid and freeze. You can even do this with rope toys. Dip a rope toy in a meat broth, water from a can of tuna, or a thin gravy and then place in a plastic bag and into the freezer.
A small washcloth can serve the same purpose for teething. Wet the cloth, roll it up and freeze. If you choose to dip the toys in broth, you should plan on keeping the puppy confined to a small area while they enjoy their treat. It can get very messy.
Change Your Tooth-brushing to Gum Massage! - If you have already started to brush your dog's teeth, you might want to use a piece of gauze dipped in a dog toothpaste and wrapped around your finger. The finger massage will feel good to the dog, but a toothbrush may hurt. Keep the toothbrush in the closet until the process of teething is complete.
Protect Your Puppy from Chewing Dangerous Treats It is very important to puppy proof a home, during the teething phase. Anything that is within reach is a fair target to chew in a puppy's mind. It is not that they are deliberately naughty, but rather they are exploring and when they find an object that relieves some of their pain, they are going to check it out. Figure out how tall your puppy is when standing on his back to legs. Any object from that height down to the floor is fair game.
The electric cords, chargers, children's toys, furniture legs, wooden doors, baseboard or molding wood is generally a favorite, but upholstered items might also be sampled. Don't forget that everyone in the household must be diligent about leaving things on the floor: shoes, boots, cell phones, eye glasses, papers, books, well, the list just goes on and on.
Don't allow a puppy to teeth on you or another person. Some people make the mistake of allowing a small puppy to mouth their fingers, hands, or even feet.
Problems during puppy teething While most puppies emerge unscathed with a full set of adult teeth, some breeds are prone to some common problems:
Retained Baby Teeth If you see what appears to be extra teeth, there is a good chance that the dog has retained a baby tooth. This is notoriously common in small breed dogs. If the baby tooth does not fall out, eventually the adult teeth are pushed out of line and cause a bad bite or malocclusion. It is important to check the puppy's teeth periodically during the teeth process and alert your vet if a tooth does not fall out. Many vets will routinely pull out any baby teeth at the same time that they spay or neuter the puppy. This saves the dog from having to undergo general anesthesia more than once and also saves you money too.
Wrong Number of Teeth Most breeds have their entire 42 teeth by the time they reach 8 or 9 months old. Some small dogs, especially the brachycephalic breeds may not have as many molars as their longer palate cousins. Some hairless breeds such as the Chinese Crested may also have missing teeth. Most of these problems are hereditary and do not pose a health risk to the dog. In some breeds, missing teeth may be a disqualifying fault in show dogs. Some breeds even have more teeth than they should. Greyhounds, for example, may have extra teeth that crowd out or overlap healthy teeth.
Puppies have 28 baby teeth while human babies will have 20 deciduous or "baby" teeth. The average adult dog has 42 teeth which is approximately a third more teeth than a human adult possesses. Humans are the only Animals on this Planet that cook their food.
Have you ever seen or known of any Carnivores in the Wild, to cook their Food? No, They hunt and eat their Prey immediately afterwards and will eat every part of their Prey, including Bones, Cartilage and Organs. Carnivores' Anatomy, which includes Cats and Dogs, has not changed that much over time.
TEETH, JAWS & MOUTHS There are so many reasons why Humans are Different from Carnivores as the list indicates above. One of the clear differences are the Teeth. Carnivores have Sharp Fangs to Tear and Rip their Meat and Swallow their Food in chunks. "Wolf their Food Down" is a saying that literally describes this, since Carnivores do not need to pre-digest their Food at the Mouth level as Humans do with their Mouth Digestive Juices. Carnivores can also open their Mouths much wider than Humans can, in order to be able to lock onto their Prey. Carnivores cannot move their Jaws sideways, but Humans can, as it allows us to Grind our Food to pulp and then liquid format before swallowing. Humans also have blunt-shaped Teeth which helps us break down and Chew our Food. Another reason Humans shouldn't even eat Meat.
DIGESTIVE SYSTEM Carnivores have an Intestinal Tract that is substantially shorter (approx. 5 feet) vs. Humans' (approx. 25 feet), which means, a Carnivore can complete Digestion in about 3 hours as opposed to a Human Digestive System taking around 15 Hours or more. Also the Digestive Juices in a Carnivore is much Stronger and more Acidic than a Human's, which is Alkaline. Humans need Fibre to stimulate the Intestinal Tract which Carnivores don't. That's why these Dog and Cat Food Manufacturers putting in Fibre and Fillings and Grains does not make sense for our Pets, but does make a lot of Dollars for them.
AMYLASE The human digestive tract averages 30 feet in length. The average length of the dog's digestive tract is 2 feet. Our appendix is actually the remnant of a fermentation system in the large intestine, from when we ate a more herbivorous diet. We don't have those long sharp canine teeth. And if you look at the back of our mouth, you will see the molars are flat. The job of the molars is to crush and grind plant matter. This is why we are classified as omnivores, our teeth tell us we have a dietary need for plant matter.
Dog's teeth & mouth are somewhere between the human teeth, mouth and the cat's teeth and mouth. You might also have noticed that dogs and humans have a lot more teeth than cats too. There is something we humans have in our mouth that neither dogs or cats have - something called salivary amylase. Amylase is an enzyme that breaks complex carbohydrates down into simple sugars.
Try this experiment: hold a piece of bread in your mouth for a few minutes and you will notice it starts to taste sweet. That is amylase converting that bread into sugar. Neither cats or dogs have salivary amylase.
Humans, as well as other omnivores and herbivores, can convert plant based ALA (Alpha-linolenic acid), which is a type of omega-3 fatty acid found in plants, to its useful constituents, EPA and DHA. Dogs can convert approximately 5 to 15 percent.
Dogs have 42 teeth in total, which is 10 times more than the number of teeth humans have. But like us, a dog's teeth can be categorized into four types: incisors, canines, premolars, and molars.
Incisors: Humans have 8 incisors that we use to bite on our food. Dogs have 12 incisors that they use to rip off meat from the bone. Dogs also use their incisors to groom themselves and get rid of fleas, mites and other foreign objects on their skin and coat.
Canines: Humans have 4 canines which help us tear food apart. Like humans, dogs have 4 canines too, but they are mainly used to puncture things.
Premolars: Our 8 premolars are mainly flat with a few sharp tips. These are used to chew our food. Dogs, on the other hand, have 12 premolars, which are used for shearing or cutting food.
Molars: Including wisdom teeth, humans have a total of 12 molars, which are used to grind food into finer pieces. Our dogs have 10 molars, which serve the same function as human molars - to grind food.
Oral health issues Gum-related infections are one of the most common dental health problems in both humans and dogs. In fact, according to the US Center for Disease Control and Prevention, nearly 50% of adults aged 30 and up have gum-related issues. Likewise, about 80% of dogs develop signs of gum disease by the age of 3. Gum problems may eventually lead to periodontal disease, an infection that affects structures that hold a tooth in place. In severe cases, bacteria from periodontal disease can affect the cardiovascular and respiratory systems and may even lead to diseases related to the heart or lungs. Dogs need to have their teeth brushed and cleaned every day using a soft bristle toothbrush and a dog-specific toothpaste that contains no fluoride. At first, it can be difficult to get your dog accustomed to having his teeth and gums touched, but it will all be worth it if he can avoid developing oral problems. Be gentle while brushing his teeth though, to avoid gum scratching and bleeding. Also, it helps to feed your dog with crunchy kibbles that can gently scratch on the surface of his teeth and remove food buildup. Choose dog food brands gourmet-artisan dog food recipes, that are made in small batches to ensure its freshness and the quality of the kibbles' texture.
So, Is Dog's Mouth cleaner than Human's? Here's the myth that makes dogs sound like a dental miracle: Despite all the leftover macaroni, rubber bands and dead squirrels they chew, our canine friends still maintain better oral hygiene than human beings do, no matter how studiously we floss and how often we visit our dentists. Could this really be true? - Well, sadly, no. In short, a dog's mouth is besieged by its own legions of germs, roughly as huge in population as those living in the human mouth and causing a similar array of dental illnesses. It's like comparing apples and oranges! Although there's a vast overlap of bacteria in the mouths of both species - a) both are teeming with microbes, and b) in many cases, a dog's dental bacteria differ from their human counterparts.
One example is the Porphyromonas, a family of rod-shaped bacteria known for causing periodontal disease, a serious gum infection that leads to the loosening and, eventually, detachment of teeth in both humans and animals. Another common dental disease in humans, however, has largely spared dogs. Dental caries (tooth decay), which according to a 2003 World Health Organization report may affect 90% of schoolchildren around the world, hits only about 5% of dogs. As complicated as the reason may be, most scientists, including Harvey, point to the scarcity of a bacterium in dogs' mouths as the major explanation. One of the rumors related to the cleanliness of a dog's mouth is the idea that human bites are more infectious than dog bites. However, this too doesn't hold up to scrutiny. The danger of both human and dog bites depends on the kinds of bacteria in the mouth and the depth of the wound. The bottom line: Cleanse as thoroughly as possible after getting bit, and go to an emergency room if you feel the wound go anywhere beyond the muscles.
Dental Growth Like people, dogs and cats have two sets of teeth. The initial smaller set, called deciduous teeth, includes incisors, canines, and premolars. As the puppy or kitten grows, the permanent teeth push their way out. The "baby" teeth roots absorb, causing the teeth to fall out. To fill in the void in the back of the now larger adolescent jaws, an additional set of teeth, the molars, emerge. In dogs, this entire transition is usually complete by 5-7 months of age, with a total of 42 adult teeth. Cats generally grow in their 30 adult teeth by 5-6 months.
Dog vs Cat Raw Food Raw Feeders: Why Are You Feeding Your Dogs Like Cats? Take a look at the following pictures of the skulls of two different animals:
Look at the difference in the shape of the shape and number of teeth. Do you think these animals should be eating the same foods? Clearly, these are different animals with different needs. In fact, they are about as different as cats and dogs! What The Mouth Tells Us About Diet?
See those pointy teeth that both dogs and cats have? They are called canine teeth and they are meant to tear and rip flesh. In fact all of the teeth of the dog and the cat are pointy, so that, in addition to the pronounced canine teeth, gives us a good idea that they are both meant to eat meat. They are both carnivores. Let's compare that to our own omnivorous teeth!
Now let's look again at the teeth of the dog. You can see they also have molars at the back of their mouth. They are pointier but they have them. They also have a sharp, interdigitation but they are clearly there and they look capable of grinding. Compare that to the cat, where the molars are very sharp and elongated and much, much less capable of grinding.
So the dog's mouth is somewhere between the human mouth and the cat's mouth. You might also have noticed that dogs and humans have a lot more teeth than cats too.
Dogs have four times more pancreatic amylase than cats and the activity of the enzyme rises much more in dogs with the amount of starch content in the diet. This means dogs can digest over 99% of processed starches and about 90% of many raw starches. The cat's ability to digest starch is more limited.
DIGESTIVE TRACT Differences between Dog and Cat:
Dogs have More teeth
Flatter molars
Dogs have More pancreatic amylase (four times as much)
Dogs experience More amylase activity
Dogs own Longer digestive tract (nearly twice as long)
Can convert some plant based ALA to DHA and EPA (cats can't)
Can manufacture taurine (cats can't)
If we move down the digestive tract, you'll see more fundamental differences between the dog and cat. The average length of the dog's digestive tract is 2 feet. The average cat's digestive tract is 13 inches. Here are a few more differences between the digestive systems of dogs and cats:
Dogs can convert approximately 5 to 15% of plant based ALA (Alpha-linolenic acid), which is a type of omega-3 fatty acid found in plants. Cats completely lack the enzymes necessary for this conversion.
And finally, dogs can manufacture taurine (an amino acid from animal protein), whereas cats can't. Clearly cats must eat a predominately meat-based diet, but dogs are a little fuzzier in that definition.
HOW TO CHECK DOG's TEETH This article proudly presented by WWW.VETS-NOW.COM
Why should I check my dog's teeth? Often people are amazed at how bad their dog's teeth are when they visit their vet because their dog has gone off its food. This is because we assume when they are eating all is well and we rarely take time to actually look. Almost all dogs will have some form of dental disease at some point in their life. As with many things, if caught early, treatment can be simple and effective.
How should I examine my dog's teeth? With care: never stick your finger inside your dog's mouth if you are not clear what you are doing. Do not assume that because they like you they will not accidently close their teeth on your fingers. It is important that your dog is as relaxed as possible during this examination as they are much more likely to be cooperative and reduce the chance of accidental nips.
It is possible to examine your dog's mouth well enough to identify possible problems without having them open wide. If you regularly brush your dog's teeth then you are already onto a winner as you can have a look while doing this daily task. If you don't brush your dog's teeth (it is worth considering starting!!! then there are two ways of getting a good look at their teeth and gums.
While they are sat quietly, gently lift the flaps of their gums and have a quiet look at the teeth you can see there - pay attention to the colour of the gums, any developing "lumps", signs of broken / chipped teeth and areas that seem/look painful. Once you have had a look at one side then look at the other. Although you won't be able to see the whole mouth, you will get a good overall picture. If and when you offer them some form of chew then try and have a look towards the back of the mouth while they are chomping on the chews. As with the other teeth, pay attention to the gum colour, signs of broken or chipped teeth and if he seems to favour one side of his mouth over the other.
Examining your dogs teeth can be a bit tricky so hopefully this video will give you a useful demonstration and some helpful tips and techniques. These checks are not meant to replace going to the vet but to help you identify what is normal for your pet and when things are "changing" and may require more attention.
What should I look for when checking my dog's teeth?
Broken or wobbly teeth - We all know how quickly we go to the dentist if we break a tooth or damage one and animal teeth are exactly the same. It is amazing what they will tolerate, and for how long they will continue to eat, but this should not be taken as evidence that they are ok.
Swelling of the gums around some teeth - this can indicate an underlying abscess.
Plaque and tartare - this can hide an awful lot of problems. If the teeth are caked in plaque and tartare then it is very possible that there is significant tooth decay occurring underneath.
Lumps on the gums - there are a variety of soft tissue lumps that can grow in the mouth. Some of these are fine some are not so always best to get them checked.
Bleeding gums - this can be a sign that things are not good. If in the early stages, then it can be treated and prevent it leading to further problems.
DOG TEETH LOSE PREVENT & CARE This article proudly presented by WWW.DOGICA.COM
If your dog loses a permanent tooth, it must be put back in his mouth within 30 minutes or the implantation will likely not be successful. Put the tooth in a glass of milk and proceed immediately to your vet's office.
The immediate answer to the question "Do Dogs Lose Teeth" is yes. This happens during puppyhood, but unfortunately for the puppy he/she is not visited by the tooth fairy. Dogs' are amazing creatures. From the tip of their wet cold noses to the ends of their wagging tails, canine anatomy is as beautiful and graceful as it is useful in answering questions about dogs' health. We delved into researching oral hygiene in a dog and learnt that it is of the utmost importance. If not checked regularly this area of a dog's anatomy can cause potentially serious problems.
When do dogs begin to lose their baby teeth? Puppies begin to lose their teeth at around 4 months of age. You will more than likely not notice that your puppy has lost a tooth as most puppies will swallow these baby teeth. Also, by the time puppies begin losing their baby teeth many of the permanent teeth have already erupted and are in place.
Can dogs regrow adult teeth if they lose them? Once a dog loses an adult tooth, this tooth is gone forever. An adult dog cannot regrow lost or damaged teeth. This is another reason why it is so important to take good care of your dog's teeth because their teeth have to last a lifetime.
Do dogs get cavities? A dog's bad breath is an indiction of build up plague and tartar. Dental cavities are rare in dogs. This is due to many factors including a relatively low-sugar diet, differences in mouth bacteria, and the shape of the teeth. When cavities do occur, they are treated in the same way as our cavities.
The difference between dental problems in small dogs and large dogs Both large and small dogs can develop serious oral and periodontal problems. In small dogs, the 42 teeth crammed in a tiny mouth can cause problems later on in their lives. This is more common in small breeds with short snouts. Due to cramped jaws, there tends to be more issues with plaque and tartar build-up which can lead to gum and periodontal disease and eventually painful tooth loss. Larger breeds tend to experience more traumatic injuries to teeth and gums such as fractured tooth tips, broken jaws, and worn tooth surfaces. If the tooth root becomes exposed, this results in severe pain and death of the tooth. Larger dogs can also develop plaque, tartar build-up and periodontal disease.
Of course not all dental problems are caused by disease, your dog's teeth could get broken or fractured by vigorous chewing on very hard objects or simply by an accidental injury when they are playing. Whenever you examine your dog's mouth, check for broken or worn teeth and encourage your pet to chew on dog chews and toys rather than stones or sticks. Prevent your dog from chewing on extremely hard substances, such as rocks, as this can damage the structure of the tooth or cause tooth breakage. Also, dogs that are allowed to roam freely are at a higher risk than those who are in a contained, safe environment.
Traumatic Tooth Injury in Dogs Tooth fractures refer to tooth injuries involving damage to the enamel, dentin and cement. These injuries occur either on the enamel-covered top portion of the tooth - the crown, or the part below the gum line - the root. Dogs are susceptible to traumatic tooth injuries. The most common complication involving a tooth fracture is inflammation and infection. In some instances, the tooth's crown may be missing, blood or pink tissue may also be present on or around the affected area. Otherwise, dogs with root fractures display constant discomfort and pain. The most common cause of a tooth fracture is a traumatic event or injury. A tooth may be broken, for instance, by chewing on a hard object, a blunt force trauma to the face, or a minor automobile collision.
Tooth discoloration: the result of a pulpal hemorrhage, pulpitis and pulpal necrosis secondary to tooth trauma. Other causes include hematogenous infection of the pulp, excessive orthodontic or occlusal forces or any event causing long term disruption to the blood supply to the tooth. Dental, oral and maxillofacial trauma often exists in combination. If one injury is found there are frequently other injuries which may be less obvious.
TREATMENT The treatment will depend on the extent and severity of dog's trauma. Crowns and other additive dental work can be applied to repair the damaged tooth, including the use of surgery when the damage is severe. Extraction may be recommended if the tooth or root cannot be repaired, followed by a sealing of the affected area with a restorative material or lining. It is important to monitor your dog's progress following treatment, and to continue with regular tooth care and cleaning.
Any damage or irritation to the gums can be detected during routine brushing or cleaning of the teeth. The most common complications are infection or the need for a follow-up root canal. In many cases, restricting the dog's activities is recommended until it is fully recovered. During this time, the dog's diet should mainly consist of moist food items.
WARNING: Improperly diagnostics and dental restorative treatment may doom the pet to continued pain and infection because symptoms of dental pain in dogs and cats are not noted in most cases. The radiographic signs of teeth that are non-vital or endodontically infected can be very subtle or non-existent, taking years to develop in some cases. Abscessed teeth rarely swell up or have any associated drainage. A dog with an improperly treated fractured limb will continue to limp and show obvious signs of the ineffective treatment. A dog with an improperly treated fractured tooth that is non-vital or has abscessed rarely show signs of pain. They continue to eat, drink and play, but live with chronic subclinical pain and infection. This will be illustrated dramatically in next month's case report.
10 DOG DENTAL TIPS HYGIENA, CARE & HEALTH This article proudly presented by WWW.TWOLITTLE CAVALIERS.COM and WWW.URBANPAWSUK.COM
Did you know that regularly brushing your dog's teeth and providing them with a healthy diet and plenty of chew toys can go a long way toward keeping her mouth healthy? Many dogs show signs of gum disease by the time they are four years old because they are not provided with proper mouth care and bad breath is often the first sign of a problem. Give your dog regular home checks and follow the tips below, and you will have a very contented pooch with a dazzling smile.
With so many dogs in need of major dental work it is no wonder that more and more products come on the market almost daily to help deal with getting rid of bad breath and cleaning up your dogs teeth. Most dog owners do not get the opportunity to test out all of the products don't he market before sticking with the one they like the most so I thought I would put together a post to help you keep the cost low and create a regular dental plan for your dogs. Good dental health is important for your dog's heart!
1. The Breath Test Smell your dog's breath. Not a field of sweet smelling roses? That's okay - normal doggie breath isn't particularly fresh-smelling. However, if his breath is especially offensive and is accompanied by a loss of appetite, vomiting or excessive drinking or urinating, it is a good idea to take your dog to the vet.
2. Lip Service Once a week, with your dog facing you, lift his lips and examine their teeth and gums. The gums should be pink, not white or red, and should show no signs of swelling. Their teeth should be clean, without any brownish tartar.
3. Signs of Oral Disease The following are signs that your dog may have a problem in his mouth or gastrointestinal system and should be checked by a veterinarian:
Bad breath Excessive drooling Inflamed gums Tumors in the gums Cysts under the tongue Loose teeth
4. The Lowdown on Tooth Decay Bacteria and plaque-forming foods can cause build-up on a dog's teeth. This can harden into tartar, possibly causing gingivitis, receding gums and tooth loss. One solution? Regular teeth cleanings, of course.
5. Canine Tooth-Brushing Kit Get yourself a toothbrush made especially for canines. Ask your vet for a toothpaste made especially, my dog personally likes "liver or chicken flavored toothpaste". Never use fluoride with dogs under six months of age, it can interfere with their enamel formation. And please do not use human toothpaste, which can irritate a dog's stomach. Special mouthwash for dogs is also available - ask your vet.
6. Brushing Technique Yes, there is actually a technique! Place the brush at a 45-degree angle to the teeth and clean in small, circular motions. Work on one area of your dog's mouth at a time, lifting their lip as necessary. The side of the tooth that touches the cheek usually has the most tartar, and giving a final downward stroke can help to remove it. If your dog resists having the inner surfaces of her teeth cleaned, don't fight it - only a small amount of tartar accumulates there. Once you get the technique down, go for a brushing two or three times a week.
7. Know Your Mouth Disorders Getting familiar with the possible mouth problems your dog may encounter will help you determine when it's time to see a vet about treatment.
8. Chew on This Chew toys can satisfy your dog's natural desire to chomp, while making their teeth strong. Gnawing on a chew toy can also help massage his gums and help keep his teeth clean by scraping away soft tartar. Ask your vet to recommend toxin-free rawhide, nylon and rubber chew toys. P.S.: Gnawing also reduces your dog's overall stress level, prevents boredom and gives him an appropriate outlet for his natural need to chew.
9. Diet for Healthy Teeth Ask your vet about a specially formulated dry food that can slow down the formation of plaque and tartar. Also, avoid feeding your dog table scraps, instead giving him treats that are specially formulated to keep canine teeth healthy.
10. Feed a good quality food daily! While raw food people say that there is an enzyme in raw food that helps keep teeth clean I know it isn't an option for everyone as a regular source of food (us included). There are dental diets for dogs that provide a harder and larger piece of kibble that helps loosen the plaque. You don't need to feed this as their meal you can give them a few pieces as a treat after dinner is over. In fact that is what I suggested a family member do for his dog after a really upsetting dental surgery because he didn't want to put his dog through it again.
Dental problem leads to other complexities. Poor dental hygiene can lead to a number of problems including rotting teeth, gingivitis, bad breath, and difficulty chewing due to damaged teeth. It can also develop into more serious problems like gum infections and heart problems. When bacteria infect the gums, they also get into the bloodstream and can affect many organs, especially the heart. The same is true in people, it's just that people tend to take better care of their teeth than they do their dog's teeth.
Caring for pets' teeth is a mystery for many pet owners. In reality, our little furry friends' dental issues are really quite similar to ours. Treat your pet's teeth like your own. Prevention of oral disease will help the overall health and well-being of your dogs and cats.
Your Pet's Teeth On examination, your veterinarian will assess your pet's oral health and make recommendations. With every visit, have your veterinarian show your pet's teeth to you, so you are familiar with any subtle changes. Meanwhile, the most evident problem you may notice with your pet may be bad breath. In other cases, your pet may begin chattering, drooling, eating hesitantly or stop eating altogether. Your first indication of a problem may even be a sudden swelling at the cheek from a tooth root abscess. Contact your veterinarian promptly with any abnormalities.
Home Dental Care Pet oral care is an important opportunity to provide preventive care at home. Granted, some pets simply will not tolerate us near their mouths. Be patient and, more importantly, be safe. Allow a veterinary staff member to show you the best way to handle your pet.
Start with diet! Feed a diet that is not strictly soft. Whether you choose to feed kibble or raw food, make sure that there are some abrasive elements in the diet to help scrape the plaque off your pet's teeth. Dogs that are strictly fed canned food without any additives are more likely to develop dental problems. You can supplement with commercial dog dental chews that are designed to work on your dog's teeth.
Dog gets teeth brushed: A daily two minute brushing will significantly reduce the plaque and tarter build-up in your dog's mouth. With gradual, gentle introduction of the brush and toothpaste over several weeks, many dogs, and even some cats, will allow some brushing and/or oral rinsing. Use only dog and cat toothpaste that does not contain fluoride. Pet toothpastes are available in several palatable flavors.
Though a vaccine has been produced that may help decrease some forms of periodontitis in dogs, it is by no means a preventive by itself. Consider other home options, such as oral rinses, water additives and dental diets. Discuss with your veterinarian which chew toys and treats are appropriate for your pet.
Base Narrow Canines The most common orthodontic abnormality seen in dogs is base narrow canines. In this condition the lower canine teeth are angled straight upward, instead of tipping outward. Some patients may display only mild contact of the affected canines with the upper gums, requiring minimal intervention. Others may show direct traumatic contact with the tissue of the upper hard palate and secondary deep defects can occur. These contact points are painful, and require correction as soon as possible, even if overt signs of pain have not been noted.
Base narrow canines can develop for many reasons. Persistence of the deciduous lower canines ("retained baby teeth") is a frequent cause of this malocclusion. If the deciduous canines fail to exfoliate in a timely fashion, the permanent canines can be displaced. Often times, the persistent deciduous canines are also base narrow in orientation. Another cause for the base narrow positioning is jaw length discrepancy. Overbite dentition (type 2 malocclusion) places the lower canines in an abnormal position. The lower canine teeth in this state may not clear the upper tissue without trauma. In some cases the lower canines are trapped to the inside of the upper canines. This can result in contact trauma to the upper canine teeth, putting their long-term health at risk.
Treatment For base narrow canines in puppies, extraction or orthodontic correction are viable options. Both treatments eliminate discomfort from traumatic tooth-to-palate contact. If extraction is elected, careful controlled removal of the tooth must be achieved with care to avoid damaging the unerupted adult tooth. It is especially important for a clinician to understand the normal anatomy and the positional relationships of the deciduous teeth with respect to the permanent teeth. As with any dental extraction procedure, pre-operative dental radiographs are obligatory. Anesthesia must be tailored for the juvenile patient with appropriate medication, careful monitoring, and a good pain control plan. Extraction may help with positioning angles of the erupting adult canine teeth but success is variable. For juvenile patients with an overbite, removing the deciduous canines at an early age can also allow for maximal growth of the lower jaw. Depending on the severity of the condition, orthodontic repositioning of the base narrowed lower canines by application of an inclined plane bite plate or application of acrylic crown extensions may be considered. Orthodontic repositioning takes time to correct the condition but is a non-invasive procedure. Surgical repositioning is where the canine teeth are physically moved to a more normal position during a surgical procedure. The canine teeth height is decreased during the crown height reduction procedure. It is important to note that this is done concurrently with vital pulp therapy, otherwise tooth death and pain will likely occur. This procedure provides immediate relief from contact and pain but should be performed by a clinician with advanced endodontic skills. Finally, extraction of the lower canines can be performed. In this case, two large teeth are removed during the surgical procedure. Ideally, extraction should be performed in cases where the other treatment options can not be performed.
Dental Dog Desease
Each photo shows the subject dogs' teeth while they were eating a raw, species appropriate food, and the stinky breath, yellow teeth, and sore bleeding gums that occurred just 17 days after feeding a veterinary diet. According to Dr Brooke Niemiec of the American Veterinary Dental College, dental disease is the number one medical problem among pets today! In fact, over 70% of dogs and cats will suffer periodontal disease by the age of two. Studies have linked periodontal disease in both humans and pets to systemic diseases of the kidneys and liver, heart disease, lung disease, diabetes complications, problems during pregnancy, and even cancer. Dental cleaning under anesthesia has become the norm, given that the vast majority of dogs suffer from dental disease, because the vast majority of dogs are fed kibble and starch-laden diets.
Offer recreational, raw bones. Offering your pet raw knuckle bones to gnaw on can help remove tartar the old fashioned way, by grinding it off through mechanical chewing. There are some rules to offering raw bones so ask your holistic vet if raw bones would be a good "toothbrush" for your dog. I recommend offering a raw bone about the same size as your pet's head to prevent tooth fractures. If your dog cannot or should not chew recreational raw bones, I recommend you offer a fully digestible, high quality dental dog chew.
Periodontal Disease Any damage to the tooth's surrounding gum and supportive bone tissues is considered periodontal disease. In Stages 1 and 2 of periodontal disease, the gums have mild to moderate gingivitis. The gingiva begins to recede away from the tooth surface and halitosis (bad breath) may already become noticeable. These changes are still reversible with appropriate treatment. As the periodontal tissue infection progresses, the deep tissue adhesions and bone react and reabsorb. These are permanent changes in which the stability between the tooth root and the bone is lost. Painful abscesses at the root tip may develop once the integrity of the periodontum has been lost.
Eventually the tooth may even fall out. These patients classify with Stages 3 or 4 periodontal disease. One significant concern for cats includes tooth resorptions. Unknown if they result from periodontal disease or another autoimmune process, these cavity-like defects in the tooth are usually progressive and very painful. These teeth generally should be extracted. Some cases are so severe they may require full mouth extractions.
Canine Orthodontics Many of us can not afford braces for our kids, let alone on our dogs! However, orthodontics are now available for our canine friends who need them. In the past, teeth that were misaligned were usually just removed. Teeth that are poorly aligned can cause problems for a dog because it may cause other teeth to dig into the gums, it may cause the teeth to wear down prematurely, and it may cause pain in the jaw.
If a veterinary orthodontist determines that your dog might benefit from braces, make sure to ask him if the risks from repeated anesthesia are less than or worse than the risks your dog faces from misaligned teeth. Your dog will be put under general anesthesia while a mold of his mouth is made, as well as when the appliance is placed in his mouth. In some cases, the dog must be anesthetized even when his mouth X-rays are taken on the first visit. Because there are risks associated with anesthesia, braces should never be put on a dog strictly for cosmetic reasons.
The price for canine braces usually ranges from $1,000 to $2,000, and dog guardians must commit to diligent brushing and antiseptic spraying of the dog's mouth while the appliance is in place. A dog wearing braces must eat soft food and give up chew toys for the duration of the treatment, which is normally measured in weeks or months, rather than years. Long-haired dogs may have to wear one of those big plastic cones, known as Elizabethan collars, to keep their hair from becoming entangled in the braces. Other veterinary dental specialists can treat gingivitis, oral cancers, abscesses, and can even give your dog a root canal!
Plaque & Tartar Plaque develops as a result of foods being left on dog teeth for too long. The bacteria that lives in the mouth secretes acids which over time results in destroying tooth enamel. Plaque can also get up under the gum lines and destroy bone support to the tooth causing tooth loss. Plaque forms every 6 hours and the only effective way of removing it, other than professional treatment, is by brushing your dogs teeth.
If plaque is left on your dogs teeth, it begins to harden (dental calculus). Tartar is the visible brown stains on the enamel. Once your dog has tartar build-up the only way to safely remove it is with a professional dental cleaning under anesthesia.
Deciduous Baby Teeth A common abnormality in canine dentition is retention of deciduous (baby) teeth. This occurs when the permanent tooth bud does not grow immediately beheath the deciduous tooth, and therefore does not cause the roots of the deciduous tooth to be resorbed.
Sparky dog - pictured to the right -has retained canine teeth (the small, more pointed teeth immediately behind his permanent canines. If a retained tooth causes the permanent tooth to erupt in an abnormal position or causes other types of problems, it should be extracted.
Gingivitis Gingivitis appears as red inflammation of the gums caused by the plaque build up on the tooth's surface and beneath the gum tissue. Plaque is a sticky coating that is made up of bacteria, acid, food, and saliva. It is constantly forming on the surface of the teeth. Once it hardens, it forms a substance called dental calculus or tartar on the teeth.
Fractured Teeth Besides resulting from a major accident or trauma to the face, your Schnauzer can fracture or chip a tooth just by chewing on bones, hard chew toys or any other hard object. And since dogs like to hide pain, the condition may go unnoticed for quite some time. So it's good to be aware of signs that could indicate your dog is having mouth pain.
Signs of a Chipped or Fractured Tooth in Dogs
Excessive drool
Avoids kibble, prefers only soft foods
Paws at face
Behavioral changes
Loss of interest in chew toys
If you notice any of these changes in your pet, please seek veterinary advice.
Dental Cleaning A thorough dental cleaning procedure involves literally scraping tarter from the teeth and under the gum lining. At that time, your veterinarian will also examine all dental, gingival, and oral surfaces, looking for tooth decay, fractures, gingival pockets, and abnormal growths. Dental radiographs may be necessary to assess the root and bone structure. A final polishing will smooth the grooves on the teeth to help delay tarter recurrence. Animals generally will not tolerate comprehensive teeth cleanings while awake. Patients should be safely anesthetized for a dental cleaning. As anesthesia does always carry its risks, discuss with your veterinarian the risks vs. benefits of such a procedure for your pet's condition. While patients should be safely anesthetized for a dental cleaning, this carries risks, so discuss with your veterinarian the risks vs. benefits of such a procedure for your pet's condition.
Did you know that dental care can extend your dog's life? Caring for our dog's teeth should be a no brainer. After all, we brush and floss our own teeth on a regular basis, visit a dentist whenever possible and spend considerable dollars in repairs when something goes wrong, so why are not we this diligent with our dogs?
Dogs with regular dental care live an average of 2 years longer when compared with dogs that do not. In fact, dental disease can potentially impact your dog's major organs - heart, kidney, liver, lungs and even bladder. The reason this infection creates such health risks is that being at the gumline means that it can very easily enter the bloodstream and travel throughout the body causing problems.
While dental disease can start even in their youth, it is often the case that dental problems come to the forefront when our dogs reach their senior years. This in part is due to years of build up, but it is also because older dogs have diminished immune systems and may be less capable of fighting off the effects of this bacteria. Pain in the mouth caused by gum disease can prevent dogs from eating and affect their appetite.
Bacteria can make its way from the gums into the bloodstream and affect the heart, kidneys, liver, and important bodily functions. For a senior dog whose immune system may already be compromised or not work as well as it used to, that can be disastrous. Keeping your old dog's teeth and gums clean can improve their overall health, help ward off diseases, and reduce pain. What are the signs of oral and dental disease in dogs?
Bad breath
Bleeding gums
Swollen, red gums
Yellowish-brown crust on teeth near the gum line
Chewing on one side of the mouth
Dropping food from mouth during meals
Decreased appetite
Slow weight loss
Licking teeth and lips excessively
Pawing at the mouth
Rubbing face on ground
Drooling
Snapping and snarling when patted on the head
Disinterest in favorite chew toys
Do Dogs Get Cavities? Dogs do get cavities, but they are far less common in canines than in humans. Plaque and tartar are among the biggest concerns in dog dental health because they lead to gum disease and its dangerous complications.
Bad Breath The most obvious sign that your dog's teeth need attention is odor. Since our pets are not supposed to have bad breath, this is often an indication that bacteria is accumulating in the mouth.
Tartar Dental disease in older dogsWhen plaque hardens it becomes tartar. While plaque can be brushed away, tartar cannot and may require dental cleaning to remove. Red gum lines or discolouration of the teeth can also indicate problems. In dogs, 28% of the time the mouth looks normal, but problems are found on x-rays! X-rays show that two thirds of the tooth is under the gumline and cannot be seen. What this really means is that every pet should have a veterinary oral evaluation and dental cleaning every year, before problems are seen. Almost 3 of every 10 dogs of all ages with healthy looking teeth have painful problems under the gumline.
Behavioural Changes Additional signs that dental disease may be present can be seen in changes in the way your dog eats; do they favour one side, are they actually chewing or just gulping down their food? Are they drooling or dropping food? Or are they showing a lessened appetite? All could be signs of a painful mouth. Another sign that dental care may be required is a reduced amount of energy. Most times owners assume that since their dog is older, there is a natural slow down, but many times this lack of energy is caused by dental disease and the flow of bacteria throughout the body wearing them down.
Does my dog feel pain from dental disease? The short answer is YES. One only has to think of how we feel when our teeth are affected to understand what our dogs must be going through. The difference is dogs are much better at hiding it. As the dental problems slowly escalate they manage to cope with the incremental pain and go on. Most times we won't even know there is a problem until it becomes severe. It is our job as pet owners to understand and watch out for the signs so our dogs do not have to grin and bear it.
What steps can I take to improve the dental health of my senior dog? While regular brushing and other at-home care is recommended to help reduce the risk of dental disease, once present, the primary treatment method is dental surgery. When a dog is older, the challenge of treating dental disease escalates and many fear the risks associated with anesthesia. However, with proper testing such as blood work, x-rays and even ultrasound you may be surprised to find that your dog can in fact safely undergo the surgery. Bacteria and infection in the bone is doing more damage to the organs than anesthesia would do to the animal. If our dogs would allow us to take x-rays of their mouths, and perform the necessary dental work like we as humans are able to do, then anesthesia would not be required, but unfortunately this is not the case.
TIPS FOR CLEANING TEETH OF OLDER DOGS
1. Talk To Your Vet About Professional Cleaning Many owners of senior dogs worry about any procedures where their pups have to be put under anesthesia, and that is necessary during a full dental cleaning. If that is a concern for you and your senior, talk to your veterinarian about your dog's health and whether the risks associated with anesthesia are worth the benefits of a full dental cleaning. Modern anesthesia and veterinary practices before cleanings are the safest they have ever been, but there are always things that can go wrong during any procedure. Here are a few concerns you should talk to your veterinarian about so they can fully explain the risks of anesthesia for dogs:
Bad reactions to anesthesia
Lowered blood pressure, heart rate, body temperature, and blood oxygen
Aspiration and acid reflux
Longer recovery time
Depressed organ functions
Tracheal irritation
Making sure that your vet has a complete and up to date medical history for your dog, including any conditions that currently affect them and medications they take, will help to determine if anesthesia is safe. Before any procedure that requires anesthesia, your dog must get full blood work and a medical examination.
A full, professional dental cleaning is the best way to make sure your dog's teeth and gums are as clean as possible, and it is the only way to ensure that harmful tartar and plaque build-up below the gum line are properly dealt with. For all the benefits for your senior dog's health that come with a professional teeth cleaning, it is usually worth taking the risks of performing the procedure, however, only you and your vet can decide what is right for your dog.
Anesthesia-Free Dental Cleanings There is another option of anesthesia-free dental cleanings for dogs. This option may seem appealing because it is cheaper and does not come with the risks of anesthesia, however, these procedures are mostly cosmetic and usually do not include cleaning under the gums and polishing the teeth. It may be a better option than nothing if your dog can not have anesthesia, and maybe some professionals who offer the procedure are more thorough than others. Again, you must discuss this option with your vet. Your dog is an individual with unique needs, and this article cannot take the place of the personalized care your veterinarian is capable of. There is no one size fits all solution for every dog.
2. Train Your Senior To Be Comfortable With You Touching Their Mouth If you are going to provide proper dental care for your senior dog and check regularly for signs of gum disease, your pooch will have to be fairly comfortable with you touching their mouth. If they are not used to it by now, do not worry. Contrary to popular belief, old dogs can learn new tricks, and your pup can learn to relax when you poke and prod around their chompers.
That said, it can be very tough if your dog already experiences pain in their mouth from gum disease, and they may be protective of sensitive areas. Training can be slow, but this is important. What kinds of things put your dog at ease? Do they like being rubbed behind the ears, or being talked to in a soothing voice, or having a comfort item nearby? You should use whatever it takes to help them stay calm, and then you can start slowly.
Maybe give them some pets on the head at first and move your hand to their chin. Let them know you are at ease, too, as they can pick up on your emotions and have a negative response. Hand feed them treats to show your dog that they can trust that your hands won't harm them. You can try dipping your fingers in chicken broth if it helps. Practice lifting their lips to expose the teeth, and then move on to touching the teeth directly. Building trust will help reduce anxiety and help your dog stay relaxed when you touch their mouth, but it takes time and will probably not happen in a day.
If you absolutely cannot get your dog to comfortably open wide for you, you may want to ask your vet or a behaviorist for some advice. It is possible that your dog is in too much pain or is too anxious to let anyone near their gums or teeth, and while a professional cleaning should reduce that pain, the guarding behavior may not disappear right away. Do not give up! Your vet can help.
3. Brush Your Senior's Teeth At Home Once your senior dog has had a professional cleaning as recommended by your vet, you should keep up with vet visits every six months, especially once your dog has reached old age. Your vet can take a look at your dog's teeth to keep up with oral health needs and give you advice. They should also be able to instruct you on how to brush your dog's teeth at home. Make sure you have the right tools. is not the same as human toothpaste, and under no circumstances should you use human toothpaste for your pup. are sometimes finger coverings that have short, rubbery bristles. These slip over your finger so you can brush your dog's teeth.
Other look similar to human brushes with bristles on the end of a piece of plastic. These are sometimes a better option if your dog has a smaller mouth or if they nip from time to time. Your vet can tell you how much toothpaste to use based on your dog's needs. Put the toothpaste on the bristles of the brush as you would do for your own teeth. Start at the front of your dog's mouth and work back, brushing in soft circles. Try to get the backs of the teeth if you can, but if you can not, do not worry too much. Your dog's tongue does a fairly good job of keeping the backs of the teeth clean. Most canine toothpaste can be safely swallowed. Just follow your vet's instructions.
4. Chewing Can Keep Teeth Clean If your veterinarian determines that your dog's teeth are healthy enough, consider getting your senior some. Chewing is mentally stimulating for your pup, but it can also help strengthen their jaw muscles, remove some debris from their teeth, and provide a bit of flossing action to clean some of the harder to reach areas of their mouth. Hard food can also help with this, but you must make healthy decisions about nutrition for your dog. Not all foods are created equal, and your vet or nutritionist can guide you. Some types of bones are designed to help keep your dog's teeth clean, and you should discuss them with your vet. Bones provide younger dogs with similar benefits, but they may not be appropriate for older dogs with sensitive teeth.
5. Adjust Your Dog's Diet You should be following your vet or nutritionist's guidelines for a healthy diet when it comes to your senior, but if you are relying on the same old kibble you always have, you may not be providing your senior with what they need. An inappropriate diet can contribute to the cultivation of harmful bacteria in the mouth. Your dog's diet should primarily be meat-based and include few grains or corn. Unfortunately, these products are often used as filler in kibble, so read your labels. An appropriate diet will help keep your dog's mouth clean, help their immune system function properly to fight off bacteria, and prevent other dangerous medical conditions.
6. Watch For Signs Of Gum Disease Once you have cleaned your dog's teeth and picked up good habits to keep them that way, you must always stay vigilant. Check your dog's teeth and gums for any symptoms of gum disease and consult your vet if your dog is showing any of the following signs:
Worsening breath odor
Pawing or rubbing at the face
Acting defensive or wincing when touched around the mouth
Loss of appetite or reluctance to eat
Redness or swelling of gums
Brown color on teeth
Frequent bleeding from the gums
Staying aware of your senior dog's dental health will help you make appropriate decisions about their oral care. It will also let you know when you need to seek professional advice. If you keep your dog's mouth healthy, you will likely see improvements in other aspects of their overall health and happiness. It is not always easy to stay on top of your senior's oral hygiene. However, it will help your senior dog stick around longer and provide you with several more years of unconditional love.
If your dog has very few teeth (or no teeth), as is often the case with senior dogs, it's still important for your dog to have some toys of his own to play with. While dogs with no teeth may not "play" with toys in quite the same way as other dogs, they still like (and need!) to interact with play things on a regular basis. Following are 10 types of dog toys that are best for dogs with no teeth:
1. Talking dog toys Dogs without teeth may naturally shy away from traditional dog toys, but they will always be intrigued by talking dog toys! The most enjoyment comes from dog toys that make sounds on their own, without any provocation/interaction from the dog required and that make sounds in irregular patterns & unusual tones. Talking dog toys typically run on batteries, for years of fun play.
2. Motion-activated toy dog balls They roll around on their own and make noises, which continues to pique your dog's attention. For dogs, the thrill of the chase is often better than mouthing on these types of toys, which is perfect for dogs with no teeth. Bonus: these toys react differently on hard floors vs carpeted floors, so your dog's playtime will never be the same twice.
3. Long and thin plush dog toys These are soft and they come in various styles that dogs find intriguing. For dogs with no teeth, it's not about the squeakers that are often found inside these dog toys. Instead, it's about the allure of playing with something that's very long, or oddly shaped and very soft. Some plush dog toys are motion-activated as well, for added entertainment value. Dogs with and without teeth enjoy 2 unique versions of these dog toys: unstuffies and stuffingless plush toys.
4. Treat dispensing dog toys As your dog pushes these toys on the floor with his nose, dog treats/kibble fall out. This is a very rewarding form of play for dogs. It challenges your dog and motivates him to play longer. For dogs with few teeth, you will want to use smaller & softer dog treats inside these toys, or your dog's own kibble. Many interactive dog treat toys can be set to dispense more or less treats every time the toy rolls over. Perfectly round treat dispensing balls are typically the easiest for dogs to get the treats out of. And some even have a built-in timer, to reload and begin dispensing dog treats every 15 to 90 minutes.
5. Toys with lots of floppy parts Dogs enjoy this type of toy because of the unexpected motion that results from the protruding arms and legs as your dog is playing with it. As your dog shakes it around in his mouth, the floppy parts gently tap his head, face, and neck which prompts more play. For the ultimate in floppiness, consider a soft octopus dog toy or dog toys with extra long arms and legs. These dog toys are typically soft with few, if any, hard parts on them, which is perfect for dogs with no teeth. Some even make unusual noises!
6. Shaker dog toys Regardless of the shape, it is the sound of these dog toys that captivates your dog's attention. The shaking beads inside create noises similar to baby rattles which piques a dog's natural instincts to chase and play. Here's proof that dogs like rattles, bells, and shakers. Round shaker dog toys, similar to balls, have an even greater appeal since they continue to roll and make noise on their own. For dogs with few teeth, I especially like the ChuckIt Indoor Shaker.
7. Plush interactive dog toys Dogs like puzzles too. Dogs without teeth enjoy the soft puzzle toys best. The idea is to stimulate your dog, challenge his mind, and prevent boredom. Puzzle toys are a great opportunity for you to interact with your dog as well. These dog toys are similar to baby toys where the child is encouraged to put shapes into the correct spaces. Yep, there's a plush interactive dog toy like that!
8. Soft & bouncy toy dog balls The softer the better. The bouncier the better. For dogs with few teeth, toys similar to these would be the best: ChuckIt Indoor Ball lightweight and bouncy, Hear Doggy Toy - Angry Birds Plush Balls With Sound Chip - makes sounds when squeezed and rolls unpredictably, Kyjen Fleecy Clean Ball.
9. Nose-activated dog puzzles With these types of toys, your dog uses his nose more than his mouth to "play". As a bonus, with interactive dog toys your dog is also learning and being rewarded for solving doggie puzzles. If dog treats are involved, choose smaller & softer dog treats as rewards for dogs with few teeth.
10. Squeaker mat dog toys These are a great option for dogs that aren't typically motivated by toys and those with no teeth. Why? Because they have so many squeakers inside them, your dog will "accidentally" bump into fun times with one of these dog mats lying around. And teeth aren't required to make sounds. Your dog's nose alone will active a squeaker. Also, while rolling around or just lying down, your dog's own body will likely activate a squeaker.
Dog braces come in a variety of shapes and sizes. There's even an Invisalign of sorts called PetAlign. Unlike Invisalign, the goal isn't to look good during treatment. With PetAlign, doctors can make a model of a sedated animal's teeth and develop a series of aligners that can be switched out without additional rounds of anesthesia. No matter what appliances are used, moving dog teeth is a relatively quick process. Depending on the condition of the mouth, dogs often only wear their braces for a few weeks or a few months.
Dog Bracers History & Origins Since the 1980s, veterinary dentists have used braces and other orthodontic appliances to treat dogs with painful and potentially dangerous dental issues. Many of the tools and devices are borrowed from human orthodontics, but the goal is completely different. They are not doing this for aesthetics, they are doing this for a healthier and more comfortable bite! Applying braces to a dog is not a task taken on lightly. The pet has to be healthy enough to undergo anesthesia, and compliant enough to tolerate repeated pokings and proddings. Owners also have to be up to the task of maintaining and cleaning their pet's mouth throughout the treatment process. Its usually not THE ONLY option, but sometimes it's the best option. End treatment goals are not to get the mouth perfect, but to get the mouth healthy and functional!
Health Issues That Require Dog Braces Braces can help dogs who are dealing with everything from crowded teeth to cancer. One of the most common issues they are used to address is a condition called linguoversion, when the teeth are pushed back towards the tongue. When the linguoversion occurs on the lower teeth, breeders call this "base narrow." In this position, the teeth may rub against the roof of the dog's mouth. At best, this can cause major discomfort. At worst, the teeth could poke holes in the roof of the mouth, leading to chronic and serious sinus infections.
Other issues that can cause problems include an overbite, when the lower jaw is shorter than the top, and lance teeth, when the upper canines point out rather than down.
Braces may also be used when the dog's baby teeth fail to fall out properly. As the adult teeth come in, the mouth becomes increasingly crowded, leading to a greater risk of infections.
In more extreme cases, braces may also be applied after part of the jaw has been removed for cancer treatment. This helps minimize tooth drift.
Diagnosing When a Dog Needs Braces Most diagnoses for dog braces occur when the animal is young. Typically any problems can be spotted when the dog's permanent teeth come in around age four to six months. Some puppies show no signs of mouth discomfort. Others may appear a little head shy. Depending on the condition of the mouth, there are several options for moving the teeth into a less painful position. In minor cases this may be accomplished with "rubber ball therapy." Dog owners are taught how to position a lacrosse ball in their pet's mouth, the pressure can help move the teeth into a more desired location. It's the cheapest and least risky option, but it requires a very cooperative dog and a very patient owner. Other treatment options include extracting or filing down the problem teeth. These instant fixes are often cheaper than braces, but they are not without their risks. Shortening the teeth requires annual checkups and potential future adjustments. Extraction is a complicated and sometimes painful oral surgery.
Caring for a Dog With Braces During their pet's treatment, owners have to brush around the apparatus and flush the mouth with oral antiseptic. In some cases the pet may have to be switched to soft foods. Chew toys and bones are off-limits. Unlike humans, once the dog's teeth are in place no retainer is needed. The dog's mouth serves as a natural retainer. If the dog is healthy enough for anesthesia, the biggest downsides of dog braces are the cost and time.
Cost of Braces for Dogs Depending on the condition of the teeth and how many rounds of anesthesia are needed, dog braces could run between $1,500 and $4,000. Owners will need to bring their dog in for weekly or biweekly visits throughout the process. It's a lot quicker and simpler than most folks would imagine, and in most cases the success rate is excellent!
DOG TEETH CLEANING GUINNESS RECORD ATTEMPT This article proudly presented by WWW.GUINNESS WORLDRECORDS.COM and WWW.SCENTHOUND.COM and WWW.NBC.COM
"Scenthound, an affordable dog-grooming business, is rounding up man's best friends and their masters to attempt to set a world record for "most people brushing dogs' teeth simultaneously." The current record of 268 dogs was set in Hong Kong in 2012. Local pet parents will try to beat that 1 p.m. April 3 at Downtown at the Gardens. Supplies and instructions will be provided. Tim Vogel, who started Scenthound, noticed many dogs weren't getting the basic care they needed to stay healthy. The five core areas of care - skin, coat, ears, nails and teeth, spell scent.
Dental care is one of the most important and overlooked areas of routine maintenance. Regular dental care is critical to a dog's dental health and also in the prevention of more serious health problems. Most dogs older than three have some periodontal disease, which can cause bad breath, tooth loss and damage to the lungs, kidneys and heart. Each dog at the tooth-brushing event must have his or her own handler and be at least six months old to participate.
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