Dental disease is the most common health problem in dogs. Understanding its welfare impact and evidence-based prevention significantly improves canine quality of life.
Canine dental disease causes chronic pain and reduced quality of life for millions of dogs whose owners are unaware of the problem. Dogs rarely refuse food despite severe dental pain, masking the problem until disease is advanced. Signs that owners can detect include bad breath, pawing at the mouth, dropping food, and behavioural changes. Daily toothbrushing is the most effective preventive measure and is accepted by most dogs when introduced with positive reinforcement from puppyhood. Dental chews and diets claim supplementary benefits but are not substitutes for brushing. Regular veterinary dental examinations — at least annually — enable early detection and treatment before significant tissue and bone loss occurs.