How to look after your dog's teeth

Looking after your dog's teeth is just as important as looking after your own. Dental problems are common in dogs and can cause real pain. The good news is that caring for your dog's teeth isn't difficult, and a few everyday habits make a big difference.

Start when your dog is young if you can. This helps them get used to brushing and mouth checks as they grow up, and helps keep their teeth in good condition throughout their life.

Why your dog's teeth matter

Dogs need healthy teeth to chew their food properly. If their teeth aren't cared for, they can develop gum disease or infected teeth, which can be very painful. Bacteria from the mouth may affect organs such as the heart, kidneys and liver.

Treating teeth that have been neglected can also be costly, as dogs usually need a general anaesthetic for dental procedures. Dental treatment can be expensive, and not all insurance policies cover it, so check your policy.

Common dental problems in dogs

• Mouth ulcers – these can be linked to severe plaque and gum disease.
• Bad breath – very bad breath is often a sign of poor dental health.
• Toothache – dogs can suffer with toothache, and it is often hard to spot. Watch for your dog chewing on one side, dropping food or avoiding their food. If you think your dog is in pain, contact your vet.
• Gingivitis – this is inflammation of the gums, caused by a build-up of plaque, and often shows as red gums along the gum line. It can be reversed if it is dealt with early. Vets see it as an early stage of periodontal disease.

Tips for keeping your dog's teeth clean

• Brush their teeth regularly. Use a soft dog toothbrush or finger brush and build up slowly, with lots of praise. Daily brushing is ideal.
• Use the right toothpaste. Use a toothpaste made for dogs. Never use human toothpaste, which can contain xylitol, a sweetener that is toxic to dogs.
• Give them suitable things to chew. Choose chews and toys made for dogs, and supervise your dog while they chew.
• Feed a good-quality, complete diet. Ask your vet whether a particular food or dental product could help your dog.
• Don't rely on breath sprays. They may freshen breath for a while, but bad breath can be a sign of dental disease, so ask your vet to check it.
• Check their mouth regularly. Look for red or swollen gums, brown build-up on the teeth, broken teeth or anything unusual.
• Get regular check-ups at the vet. Your vet can spot problems early and advise on cleaning if it's needed.