Does your dog have dental treats or chews? If so, that’s great! Dental treats can be very beneficial for dogs. However, there are some things to keep in mind when choosing your pup’s chews. Read on for more information from a local Matthews, NC vet.
Benefits
Chewing is a natural behavior in dogs. It helps keep Fido’s bones and muscles strong, stimulates the flow of saliva, and can help fight plaque and tartar. Chewing is also very helpful in reducing plaque and tartar buildup on your canine pal’s teeth. This is very important! That yucky brown and yellow crud is tied to gum disease. Gum disease is a serious health risk for Fido, just as it is for people. It has been linked to some very dangerous medical issues, such as heart disease. This is because the bacteria can travel from your pet’s mouth to his vital organs. Ask your vet for more information.
Other Options
While dental chews can benefit most dogs, they aren’t the only form of dental care Fido should get. Examinations are crucial as well. Brushing is also helpful, as are dental flakes and kibble. In fact, one study found that increasing the diameter of kibble drastically reduced tartar.
Signs Of Dental Issues
At home, watch for signs of doggy dental woes. Some common ones are bad breath, tartar buildup, bleeding gums, and changes in behavior or eating habits. Call your vet immediately if you notice any of these red flags.
Choosing Chews
Picking out pet products can be overwhelming these days. There are just so many different options to choose from, and each of them claims to be the best. One thing you can look for is the approval of the Veterinary Oral Health Council. We also recommend reading the label. Avoid products that contain a lot of fillers, such as wheat or corn. These are metabolized as sugars, and could actually make doggy dental issues worse! Your four-legged friend’s opinion is also important. Fido may seem to prefer a specific type of chew over another. That’s fine!
Tips
You can make dental chews more effective by adding a bit of doggy toothpaste. Choose a flavor your furry best friend will like, such as liver or beef. Dental-formula kibble can also be beneficial. Do you have questions or concerns about your dog’s teeth? Contact us, your Matthews, NC veterinary clinic, today!
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