Labrador chewing on dental bone to maintain good oral health

As humans, brushing our teeth is part of our daily routine (hopefully). We go to the dentist a few times a year and floss as much as we remember to, so we can maintain our oral hygiene and fight tooth decay, but what about our furry friends?

By age three, over 80% of dogs have some form of dental disease, which is why taking care of your pup’s teeth is important!

A few signs of dental disease in canines are:

Broken or loose teeth
Pain or bleeding in mouth
Excessive drooling
Bad breath
Refusal or inability to eat or drink

Here are a few reasons it is important to prioritize your dog’s oral health.

Stop Bad Breath

Stinky breath is one of the first signs that your dog is battling dental disease. Regularly cleaning your dog’s teeth can help prevent bacteria from building up and odor from developing. Otherwise, the food particles that cling to their teeth and gums will form plaque.

Prevent Oral Pain

Severe cases of periodontal disease or tooth decay can be very painful to your dog. This pain can impact their daily life and activities, making it hard for them to do simple things like eating, sleeping, drinking, or playing. Severe oral pain impacts their mood, behavior, and ability to enjoy life.

Avoid Organ Damage

The bacteria that reside within plaque can enter the bloodstream. Once it travels through the body, bacteria can spread to the heart, liver, and kidneys. This process is called bacteremia. Bacteremia can cause organ damage and make your dog sick.

Dental care for dogs includes annual professional dental cleanings done at a veterinarian’s office and regular at-home dental care. Try giving your dog dental treats or dental toys if you have trouble brushing their teeth at home.

If you are looking to welcome a new furry friend into your family, Lankas Labs raises exceptional, loving Labradors in various colors. All our puppies are checked by a veterinarian and come with health records, so you know their background and family history!