Periodontal disease affects over 80% of dogs by age three and causes chronic pain that is frequently undetected; daily tooth brushing and professional cleaning prevent the most severe welfare impacts.
Dental disease in dogs is arguably the most prevalent chronic welfare problem affecting the companion dog population, yet it receives far less attention than more visible conditions. Periodontal disease involves ongoing bacterial infection, bone loss, and pain at every tooth in the mouth. Dogs evolved to mask pain, so owners whose dogs eat normally often assume dental health is adequate. Regular oral inspection by owners and veterinarians, combined with daily tooth brushing from puppyhood, provides the most effective prevention available. The welfare cost of untreated dental disease accumulated over years is substantial.