Let’s face it, dogs rarely have fresh smelling breath, but a foul odor could mean that Inky is suffering from dental disease.  Other signs may mean your pet has dental problems include excessive drooling, pawing at the mouth, swollen cheeks, and bleeding gums.  

Dental disease is very common, in fact, it is estimated that over 80% of dogs and cats over 3 years of age have some form of it.  Since dental disease can lead to other problems including heart and kidney disease, its best to take Inky’s bad breath very seriously.  

Below are 10 tips to keeping your dog’s teeth healthy:

1. Cleaning
The best way to prevent dental problems is by having your pet’s teeth professionally examined and cleaned by your veterinarian. During this procedure, the teeth and gums are examined for problems and then they are cleaned, scaled, and polished with dental instruments. This will remove tartar build up and plaque residue.

2. Brushing
Between professional cleanings, daily brushing with pet toothpaste and tooth brush is recommended. Daily brushings are the best way to prevent plaque and tartar build up at home.

3. Pet Toothbrushes
There are many types of pet  toothbrushes, you may have to try several to see which one works best. There are even electronic toothbrushes that oscillate fast and have reduced sound to be less scary for your pet. With smaller animals, you may need to use a toothbrush tip that fits over your finger. You use your finger to gently rub the teeth and gums with pet toothpaste.

4. Don’t Use Human Toothpastes or Mouthwashes
Never use human toothpaste or mouthwashes for your pet. These products are designed for people and are not intended for pets. While they are not extremely dangerous, but may cause stomach upset if swallowed.

5. Pet Toothpaste
Pet toothpastes are designed to be used with toothbrushes or toothbrush pads. They usually contain a mild abrasive agent like silica that helps physically remove plaque. Pet toothpaste usually comes in pet friendly flavors like beef and peanut butter.

6. Dental Pet Foods
Dental care pet food can help reduce plaque. Some types of dental diets have a specific texture that physically cleans the tooth as the food is chewed. Some may have additional ingredients added to it that help prevent tartar formation or freshen your pet’s breath. Always check with your veterinarian for recommendations before starting a new pet food.

7. Dental treats
Just like dental diets, dental treats are usually made with a texture that helps physically clean the teeth as they are being chewed. Some may also have additional additives, like hexamethaphosphate (HMP) that is proven to decrease tartar build up. HMP can help prevent plaque from mineralizing into tartar, which can cause damage to teeth and gums.

8. Dental Toys
Dental chew toys can also help remove tartar and plaque. Most have rubber nubs that physically help remove plaque from the surface of the teeth. Always supervise your pet when they are playing with toys. A toy that is damaged should be removed immediately to prevent accidental ingestion by your dog.

9. Rawhide and Natural treats
Rawhide has been used for many years as a way to satisfy dogs’ need to chew. In the last few years, studies have shown that rawhide can also help reduce plaque formation through mechanical removal while chewing. There are also rawhides that are treated with additives that can prevent plaque from hardening into tartar.

10. Look for the VOHC Seal
The Veterinary Oral Health Council (VOHC), is a group of veterinary dental experts that research on the effectiveness of dental products. If the product meets VOHC standards, it will be awarded the VOHC seal of approval and the company will usually place the seal on their packaging.