Just like humans, a dog's dental health is important to their overall bodily health. Here, our Rancho Cucamonga vets discuss the best food for canine dental health.
Dog Dental Health
The well-being of your dog is closely linked to their oral health in several ways. Unfortunately, like humans, dogs can experience uncomfortable and occasionally painful oral health issues such as periodontal disease, tooth decay, and tooth loss.
These common conditions can have significant and detrimental effects on your dog's long-term health and overall well-being.
What Foods Are Best For Dog Dental Health?
While regular oral hygiene and routine professional veterinary dental cleanings are a large part of caring for your dog's teeth, there are also certain foods and related items that can help scrub away plaque. Here are 5 options for helping to keep your dog's teeth clean:
1) Raw Animal Bones
Raw bones are great for removing bacteria and debris around the teeth thanks to their flexibility and texture.
You should always be sure that the size of the bone is suitable for the size of your dogs and that you never offer them cooked bones as these can break and splinter causing serious harm.
2) Fruits and Vegetables
Dogs often enjoy sharing fruits and vegetables as snacks with their owners. Carrots, apples, and pumpkin are among the favorites, as they are easy to eat and do not stick to the teeth.
In addition to providing teeth-cleaning benefits, fruits and vegetables contain antioxidants that help manage chronic oxidative stress, a known contributor to periodontitis.
However, it's important to keep in mind that these treats should only make up 10% of your dogs' daily food intake, and portion sizes should be appropriate for their size.
3) Molded Dental Chews
These types of treats are specifically designed to clear plaque and debris off of your dog's teeth. Certain dental chews also come with the added bonus of freshening their breath!
These dental chews are not only tasty for your pup but also offer an outlet for your dog to relieve boredom and anxiety without chewing on your favorite things. These dental chews can be used during training to show your dog what they are allowed to chew on versus your furniture or clothing.
4) Yogurt or Kefir
The probiotics found in yogurt or kefir play a vital role in maintaining the health of your dog's gut and immune system. You have the option to administer probiotics orally or by incorporating yogurt into their diet.
By doing so, the probiotics will help eliminate harmful bacteria from your dog's mouth, thereby aiding in the prevention of inflammation and periodontitis.
5) Dental Care Specific Dry Dog Food
Whatever food you choose to feed your dog, you should always check that the ingredients are natural and beneficial. Opt for dog foods that contain real meat, fatty acids, and vitamins which can help ensure healthy teeth.
Many dog food companies offer foods that are specific to the dental health of your dog through their nutrition content and the size and shape of the kibble itself.
How Age Affects Your Dogs Diet
As dogs grow older, their metabolism tends to slow down, and they may start experiencing the physical discomforts that come with aging. Consequently, older dogs may become less energetic and more sedentary.
If your senior dog consumes excessive amounts of food without getting enough exercise, they are at risk of becoming overweight due to the combination of decreased activity and excess calorie intake.
Different Types of Dog Dental Diets
There are various dental-specific diets available, but what purpose do they serve exactly?
Dental diets are designed to provide the necessary nutrients to keep your dog healthy, just like regular food. However, they also include additional nutrients that are essential for dental health.
Many dental diets are specially shaped and textured, often larger in size with a fibrous texture. This design allows the kibble to break down and help remove debris and plaque from your dog's teeth.
Speak with your Rancho Cucamonga vet if you would like to learn more about these specific diets or if you have any questions about how this type of food can help care for your dog's teeth.
Note: The advice provided in this post is intended for informational purposes and does not constitute medical advice regarding pets. For an accurate diagnosis of your pet's condition, please make an appointment with your vet.