Most dog lovers relish the sweet smell of puppy breath. Unfortunately, as dogs get older “puppy breath” is sometimes replaced by halitosis, which may be an indicator that our beloved pets are on the verge of experiencing serious health problems. According to the American Veterinary Dental Society, nearly 80 percent of dogs demonstrate signs of gum disease by the time they are three years old. Statistics show that periodontal disease is the number one health problem in dogs.  

Just as in humans, periodontal disease in pets can adversely affect their overall health. Bad breath is often a sign of excessive bacteria in the mouth, which can lodge beneath the gum line and get absorbed into the bloodstream. This can lead to significant health issues, including systemic infections and heart disease.  Periodontal disease is painful and adversely affects your dog’s quality of life.  Prevention is the best approach to maintaining your dog’s dental health. Gum disease develops gradually so it is important to regularly check your dog’s mouth for red, swollen gums, loose teeth or small growths in the mouth.

Although regular dental checkups for your pet are important, home dental care is also essential. Most holistic veterinarians recommend brushing your dog’s teeth three or more times per week to remove plaque buildup. Use products that are specially formulated for dogs because human products such as mouthwashes and toothpastes are too harsh and can cause irritation. 

You can make your own “dog toothpaste” by mixing up one tablespoon of baking soda with one teaspoon of water. It’s best to start brushing your dog’s teeth while it is still a puppy so that it becomes a normal part of the pet’s routine. But even older dogs will accept it if you start slowly and gently and progress gradually. 

Encourage your dog to play with rubber balls and chew toys and give him dental health treats that help remove tartar from the teeth. Avoid giving your dog any toys to chew on that are harder than his teeth. Aggressive chewing on extremely hard objects can cause broken teeth. Most vets recommend dry dog food because it helps keep plaque and tartar under control. 

Consider using natural supplements to boost your pet’s physical and dental health. PAAWS Dog Vitamin is an organic supplement that contains essential antioxidants and enzymes. 

A healthy fresh mouth is not just appealing, it is one way to help ensure your pet has a long, healthy, happy life.  Work with your holistic veterinarian to make sure your dog is protected from gum disease.  Maintaining your dog’s dental health will give both of you something to smile about.