One of the most common 'complaints' dog owners have about their four legged friends is their breath. While it may seem a part of a dog's overall nature, there is a certain degree of odor that should come from their mouth. There are many different underlying causes of extreme bad breath in dogs that may seem like nothing more than a nuisance, but can actually be warning signs to much more serious problems if not addressed promptly. Examining your dog's mouth on a regular basis can prevent these issues from escalating quickly and causing serious consequences later on.
Checking your dog's gums is the most important ant area to examine. Gums should be pink, not any shade of red, white, yellow or blue. Don't panic if your dog has dark pigment spots on their gums and tongue---that's normal. Red and swollen gums are a sign of periodontal disease, a serious condition that should be looked for regularly and, if seen, addressed by your veterinarian immediately. Your pet's gums will recede and their teeth will loosen and fall out without proper treatment. Catching the condition early and taking immediate action is the key to preventing this.
Teeth are the most important part of dog's mouth. They eat, chew, etc. with them and they should be in top shape to maintain your dog's overall happiness. When checking teeth, they should not be broken or cracked. Take your dog to the veterinarian right away if you think they have a cracked tooth. The veterinarian will take x-rays to determine the severity of the damage. If it seems absolutely necessary, the vet may choose to pull the tooth, restore it or refer your dog to a veterinary dental specialist. Dogs accumulate tartar buildup just as we do, but at different rates depending on the individual dog. A professional cleaning by your veterinarian can resolve the issue. They can also tell you how often your dog's teeth need to be cleaned, whether it be every six months or even a few years between cleanings. A dog's characteristics are a factor into tartar buildup rate, but there are methods to control some of the factors that affect tartar buildup. Pet's who eat dry food accumulate less tartar than those who eat moist or canned food. Brushing your dog's teeth at home can also make a difference. You can give your pet special treats and chew toys for cleaning their teeth and controlling tartar if you aren't up to brushing their teeth every night before bed. Ask your veterinarian for specific products.
When it comes to dog breath, it shouldn't be so foul that it makes you leave the room. Foul odor in the mouth can indicate dental disease. Excessive drooling and lumps in the mouth are also warning signs. Tell your veterinarian promptly if you see any of these signs.
