Dental disease is the most common health problem in dogs, with dental chews and regular brushing providing effective prevention that dramatically improves long-term welfare.
Canine dental welfare is largely preventable yet widespread, representing a significant source of chronic pain that is highly manageable with appropriate owner action. Daily toothbrushing from puppyhood prevents the majority of dental disease. For dogs resistant to brushing, VOHC-approved dental chews, water additives, and specialized diets provide measurable alternatives. Anaesthesia-free dental cleaning is widely marketed but provides no evidence base for effectiveness and can cause injury. Professional dental cleaning under anaesthesia, when recommended by a veterinarian, is the only effective treatment for established dental disease.