Greencross Vets warn against dental disease in dogs

It’s not just about bad doggie breath. If you neglect caring for your pet’s teeth, it can have serious consequences.

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August 3, 2021 - 11:35AM

NSW

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Pet parents need to clean their dog’s teeth at least once a day otherwise it will come back to bite them, according to the experts.

New research from Greencross Vets has found more than 80 per cent of Australian cats and dogs will develop dental disease by the age of three, which causes bad breath and can lead to heart and kidney problems.

“Most animals by the age of three will have some sort of dental disease. It’s usually a combination of factors, including the food they eat and genetics. Smaller breed dogs could be more prone because there’s less space between teeth for food material to accumulate,” Greencross vet director Dr Michael Yazbeck said.

Dog owners are urged to brush their dogs teeth more regularly to fight dental disease. Alex Coleman, 22, with her border collie Gypsy at home in Cronulla. Picture: Jonathan Ng

Dr Yazbeck said it was important to brush your pets’ teeth once a day to prevent plaque from hardening and inflaming the mouth.

“I recommend a small, soft bristle toothbrush with a pet toothpaste, which will improve compliance with them because it tastes good and can be a positive experience. It really does need to be done every day to be effective,” Dr Yazbeck said.

“Dental treats and chews also provide that mechanical action against the teeth to help remove plaque.”

Nurse Alex Coleman said she hadn’t ever thought of brushing the teeth of her one-year-old tri merle border collie, Gypsy, but gives her plenty of chews and bones to gnaw on.

“I can’t say we’ve ever brushed her teeth with a toothbrush. She has dental sticks quite often, about once or twice a week and then usually she’ll get a bone once a week as well,” Ms Coleman said.

“She gets the chew toys with the grooves in them as well so she can get rid of the food in her teeth.

“The vet has always said her gums and teeth look pretty healthy. She gets a mixture of dry dog biscuits and a bit of wet food at night. She’s got pretty good breath, unless it’s right after she eats of course.”