Caring For Your Dog's Teeth

We all know how important dental care is for people. Did you know that this is also crucial for pets? Fido won’t really care if his teeth aren’t white, and he’ll still be super cute if his smile is a little crooked. However, dental issues aren’t just a cosmetic concern: they can cause or contribute to some very serious health issues. A local Lakewood Ranch, FL vet offers some tips on caring for your dog’s teeth in this article.

Common Issues

Man’s Best Friend can develop many of the same dental problems as people can. Gum disease is a common one, affecting roughly 80 percent of pups over the age of three. Fido also has a habit of cracking or breaking his teeth on hard toys. Misalignment is another issue we often see in dogs. This tends to affect small breeds the most: those tiny mouths often can’t really fit the average 42 teeth an adult dog has. Our canine buddies can also develop infections and abscesses, which are quite dangerous so close to the brain.

Warning Signs

Keep an eye out for signs of dental issues. Bad breath is one of the common ones. However, this can also be a sign of many other medical issues. Some other things to look for include visible tartar buildup, swelling, bloody smears on toys or dishes, and excessive drool. Even if you don’t see anything, your pet’s behavior may also clue you in. Fido may act sullen or depressed, and he may withdraw and lose interest in play. You may also spot changes in his eating habits: he may dribble food, eat more slowly, chew on one side of his mouth, or not finish his dinner. Call your vet if you spot any of these red flags.

Doggy Dental Care

Fortunately, it isn’t very hard to keep your canine buddy’s choppers in good condition. Brushing Fido’s teeth is really the best thing you can do at home. Your pooch will need to get used to it, so ask your vet for training tips. Your furry pal should also have plenty of fresh water and suitable chew toys available. Last but not least, have your dog’s teeth checked at least once a year.

Please do not hesitate to reach out if ever we can be of assistance. As your Lakewood Ranch, FL animal clinic, we’re here to help!