Dental disease is the most common health problem in adult dogs, and it is almost entirely preventable. Beyond bad breath, untreated tartar leads to painful gums, lost teeth, and bacteria that can affect the heart and kidneys. The good news is that a simple home routine makes a huge difference.
Brushing is the gold standard
Nothing beats brushing. Use a dog toothbrush or finger brush and dog-specific toothpaste — never human toothpaste, which contains ingredients that are toxic to dogs. Start slowly, let your dog taste the paste, and build up to brushing the outer surfaces of the teeth for a minute most days. Pairing it with a daily routine helps it stick.
Chews and diet help
- Vet-approved dental chews reduce plaque between brushings.
- Appropriate chew toys give a mechanical clean and satisfy the urge to chew.
- Avoid bones and antlers harder than the teeth, which crack them.
When to book a professional cleaning
Home care slows tartar but cannot remove it once it hardens. Brown buildup along the gumline, red or bleeding gums, persistent bad breath, dropping food or pawing at the mouth all mean it is time for a veterinary scale and polish, done under anaesthesia. An annual dental check lets your vet catch problems before they become extractions.
