Periodontal disease is the most common clinical condition in adult dogs, affecting over 80% of dogs over three years of age and causing chronic pain that significantly reduces quality of life.
Dental disease represents one of the most widespread sources of chronic, hidden pain in companion dogs. Because dogs continue to eat even with significant oral pathology — often with visible discomfort signs owners attribute to aging or food preferences — disease progresses unnoticed for years. A welfare-centred approach to dog ownership includes annual professional oral health assessments, dental radiographs to detect root pathology, and a home care routine combining brushing with evidence-supported adjuncts. Dogs should receive appropriate anaesthesia and multimodal analgesia for dental procedures. Post-operative pain management, including anti-inflammatory coverage for 3–5 days, is essential and should be non-negotiable. Public education remains the biggest gap: surveys show many owners are unaware their dogs have dental disease even when veterinarians have documented it.