Periodontal disease is the most common disease in dogs, with the majority of dogs over three years showing signs, causing chronic pain that owners often fail to recognise.
Dogs with periodontal disease experience chronic oral pain that significantly impairs quality of life. Because dogs continue eating despite oral pain, owners frequently underestimate the severity of their pet suffering. Post-dental treatment owners commonly report dramatic behavioural improvements including increased activity, playfulness, and food enthusiasm — indicating the degree of chronic discomfort that existed. Annual veterinary dental assessments, daily toothbrushing from puppyhood, and appropriate dental diets and chews are the primary preventive welfare interventions.