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Whether you鈥檙e trying to prevent stinky dog breath, to find healthy treat options for your pet, keep your dog鈥檚 teeth clean, or supplement your canine鈥檚 dental care, here鈥檚 what you need to know before buying for your dog.
Dog Dental Health 101
Keeping your dog鈥檚 teeth healthy is an important part of maintaining his overall health, according to the (AVMA). Brushing your dog鈥檚 teeth is 鈥渢he single most effective thing you can do to keep their teeth healthy between dental cleanings, and may reduce the frequency or even eliminate the need for dental cleanings,鈥� says the AVMA. 鈥淒aily brushing is best, but it鈥檚 not always possible, and brushing several times a week can be effective.鈥澛�
Be sure to use a toothbrush and , not your toothpaste. Wiping the outside of the teeth with at least every 2-3 days can also remove plaque.聽
As part of your pet鈥檚 routine care, your vet should check your dog鈥檚 teeth and gums at least once a year to help prevent tooth and gum pain. The AVMA recommends taking your dog to the vet sooner if they鈥檙e experiencing any of the following:
- Bad breath
- Broken or loose teeth
- Extra teeth
- Discolored, tartar-covered teeth
- Any unusual chewing or drooling
- Pain, bleeding, or swelling around the mouth
How Dental Treats Can Help Your Dog鈥檚 Teeth
Some dogs have a difficult time accepting tooth brushing. may be more palatable (and acceptable) to your pet than a regular old toothbrush and toothpaste or . And they do help keep your dog鈥檚 mouth clean.
Treating your dog to something special is one way to show your love. That鈥檚 even better when the treats you offer are beneficial to your pet鈥檚 health. According to the , there are certain dental treats that can, in fact, help with your pet鈥檚 oral health. These are dental treats that receive the , which promotes dental products 鈥� including dental treats 鈥� for dogs and cats.
The VOHC, which is overseen by the American Veterinary Dental College, recognizes products that have met or exceeded the VOHC standards for plaque control and tartar control in dogs and cats. Use of products containing the of Acceptance can, according to the organization, help reduce the severity of periodontal (dental) disease in pets.
Types of Dental Treats
There are two major categories of the VOHC has awarded with its seal. All of the examples below help minimize tartar.
Rawhide Chew Treats
Edible Treats
Alternatives to Dental Treats
If you鈥檙e looking for something other than treats, some dog food is specially formulated to help with dental health. In general, dry kibble, especially the larger size, is better for dogs鈥� teeth than canned food. The VOHC also offers its seal to dog food designed to help with plaque and tartar:
Treats to Avoid
Hard treats, such as antlers or synthetic or natural bones, that could potentially damage your pet鈥檚 teeth should be avoided, according to the American Animal Hospital Association for Dogs and Cats.
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This article is intended solely as general guidance, and does not constitute health or other professional advice. Individual situations and applicable laws vary by jurisdiction, and you are encouraged to obtain appropriate advice from qualified professionals in the applicable jurisdictions. We make no representations or warranties concerning any course of action taken by any person following or otherwise using the information offered or provided in this article, including any such information associated with and provided in connection with third-party products, and we will not be liable for any direct, indirect, consequential, special, exemplary or other damages that may result, including but not limited to economic loss, injury, illness or death.