Keeping your dog's teeth clean and healthy is an essential part of their overall well-being. Poor dental health can lead to gum disease, tooth decay, and other infections that can reduce quality of life and even contribute to some long-term health problems. Fortunately, it doesn't need to be complicated - with the right behaviour and a few simple steps, you can ensure your pup has a smile for years to come. 

Digestion of food starts with the chewing so a strong set of teeth are essential to your dog's health! The best way to be sure about the health of your dog's teeth is to have a good working knowledge of what a health set looks like. Starting young is your best bet here to ensure your dog is comfortable having their mouth checked, being as gentle as possible to avoid anxious bites. Your dog's gums should be light pink in colour and their teeth should be clean and white. 

How do I clean my Dog's teeth?

It’s important to remember that a healthy mouth and dental hygiene isn't something that can be accomplished without work or with just chews & treats. While our Moonchers chews are great at helping with your dog's oral hygiene, there are other steps you can take to keep your dog's teeth happy & healthy. 

Regular brushing is recommended in order to keep your dog’s teeth and gums in good health. Start early in your puppy's life, introducing a toothbrush along with toothpaste before your pup fully develops. Use the same methods you would use when teaching them pretty much anything else: patience, repetition and rewards! Make sure you offer plenty of praise while they get used to the feeling of having their teeth brushed.

Human toothpaste contains many ingredients that could cause great harm to a dog if swallowed, including xylitol which is toxic to canines and other animals. Instead of human toothpaste, pet-friendly versions specially formulated for dogs can be purchased online or in any good pet shop. These products contain special enzymes that help break down plaque, as well as natural vitamins and minerals that help keep teeth and gums healthy.

Dental treats are also a great way to encourage brushing habits; these treats are designed to polish the teeth and provide added enzymes for maximum protection against dental disease.

You should ask your vet to review your brushing technique, ideally with routine dental examinations at least every six months. While this might take some getting used to, it can save time (and money) in vet bills for preventable surgeries down the line. Caring for our beloved pets' mouths will help ensure their overall health and longevity—after all, it pays to look after our furry best friends from head-to-tail!

How will I know if my dog has dental problems?

Just like us humans, pets can suffer from tooth and gum disease if proper care isn't given. How do you know if your pet has tooth or gum issues? Warning signs to look out for include Halitosis (bad breath), pain while chewing, unwillingness to eat, soreness or bloodied gums, excessive plaque build-up and potentially tooth loss. They can also rub their faces on grass or carpets in an attempt to relieve any discomfort.

Plaque needs to be removed consistently so it doesn't turn into tartar which will cause many issues, especially with bacterial build-up. Left untreated, this can result in tooth loss, pain and bad breath as well as being linked to major health problems such as heart and liver disease.