Has your dog got dental problems?

Brushing your dog’s teeth is the best way to keep their mouth healthy.

If a dog’s teeth are not regularly cleaned, the plaque will build up and turn into tartar. This can lead to inflammation and tenderness, and can also go on to cause gingivitis and gum disease.

To coincide with Pet Dental Health Month this February, pet supplements maker Nutravet recently shared some common signs of problems with a dog’s teeth, including:

• Discoloured teeth
• Swollen or bleeding gums
• Bad breath
• Excessive drooling
• Pain or difficulty eating
• Pawing at the mouth

Ideally, dogs should be introduced to teeth brushing at a young age, however it’s still possible to train older dogs to get used to having their teeth touched, Nutravet says.

Be patient and get them used to having their teeth cleaned over a few weeks. Let them taste their new dog safe toothpaste so they think of brushing their teeth as a treat, not a chore.

You could begin by gently rubbing a soft cloth along their gums, and gradually move on to a brush that fits over your finger and then a proper dog toothbrush with a longer handle, which will help you reach all their teeth.

After each session, reward your dog with a treat or praise.

Dental chews and natural plaque remover supplements can also be used to help support your dog’s oral health and hygiene.

“Just like us it’s important for animals to follow a daily dental routine,” said Korina Stephens RVN from Nutravet. “Your pet’s teeth have a lot of work to do; dogs use their mouths for more than just eating, they use them to play, explore and taste a lot of their surroundings. If your pet’s teeth aren’t properly cared for, it can cause problems.

“A dog’s gums should be a healthy pink colour (with no redness or bleeding where the gums meet the teeth) and their teeth should be white and clean.”

At Petwise we offer seven levels of senior dog insurance for dogs aged seven years and older, with no upper joining age limit and dental cover as standard. Why not get a quote today?