As we know, dogs need numerous care. We strive to have proper body hygiene, good food, and daily walks. But those are not the only needs our friends have. Dental hygiene is one of the eternal forgotten in regards to canine care, despite being of the utmost importance.

There is a high percentage of dogs that have dental problems after 3 years of age. If we do not take care of our pets' mouths, there are a number of symptoms and diseases that may appear:

=> Tartar: Tartar is the first symptom that appears in a mouth that is not being properly cared for. It is an accumulation of salts, food debris, and bacteria. Because of this, a hard yellowish plaque forms on the teeth, which is colonized by these bacteria. When tartar build-up is large, a dental cleaning is sometimes necessary. For deep dental cleaning, the animal must be anesthetized.
=> Halitosis: Halitosis, also known as bad breath is another of the symptoms that occur in dogs with poor oral hygiene or periodontal diseases derived from it.
=> Gingivitis: When the accumulation of tartar in the mouth is not treated, it can lead to gingivitis. Gingivitis is an inflammation of the gums that causes great discomfort and pain in our pets. These discomforts can cause dogs to stop even eating
=> Periodontitis: If we do not treat gingivitis, it can evolve to periodontitis. The inflammation affects the crown of the tooth or even the root. This inflammation causes the fall of teeth, irreparable losses in the mouth of dogs.

The most important thing regarding dental diseases in dogs is their prevention. Here are some tips to prevent the aforementioned problems:

=> Getting the puppy used to mouth manipulation: to prevent dental problems, it is important to brush our dogs' teeth weekly. If we accustom our puppies to brushing, we will not have difficulties when doing it. There are toothbrushes and toothpaste specific to dogs that will facilitate the work.
=> Give adequate food: The dry feed is most suitable for the dental health of your pet. Feed croquettes are hard, and when chewed they rub against teeth that help prevent tartar and bacterial plaque. The most foods, and homemade food favors the accumulation of tartar.
=> Specific snacks against dental tartar: There are numerous products that help us maintain hygiene in the mouths of our dogs. There are snacks that prevent the accumulation of tartar.

There are also liquid products such as Dentican, or powder such as Plaqueoff, that help fight bad breath and minimize tartar deposits on teeth.

=> Safe chew toys: Another alternative for tartar prevention is large bones and chew toys. Our dogs will be entertained with them, and chewing is also favored and tartar accumulation is minimized.

Not all bones are valid. It is best to ask the veterinarian which bones are recommended and which are not for our pets. Small or splintering bones are very dangerous and can even be fatal.

Following this series of tips, our best friend can have a denture in perfect condition.

Author's Bio: 

Hasan Root, a dream lover!