Dog Dental Health: An Underrecognized Welfare Issue

The prevalence of dental disease in dogs and its impact on welfare, quality of life, and systemic health.

Key Facts

Over 80% of dogs over age 3 have some degree of periodontal disease
Dental disease causes chronic pain that most dogs are stoic about, masking the extent of their suffering
Untreated dental disease increases risk of heart, kidney, and liver disease through bacterial spread
Regular dental care including tooth brushing is the most effective preventive intervention
Many dogs require professional dental cleaning under anesthesia — often repeatedly throughout their lives

Welfare Considerations

Dental disease is one of the most common and undertreated welfare problems in companion dogs. Because dogs are stoic and continue to eat despite severe oral pain, owners frequently underestimate the degree of suffering. Veterinary assessment reveals that teeth many owners believe are fine are causing significant ongoing pain. The systemic health consequences — including cardiac and renal disease — compound the welfare impact. Early preventive care, including daily tooth brushing initiated from puppyhood, is the most effective intervention and one of the most impactful things owners can do for long-term welfare.

What You Can Do

Begin tooth brushing training with your dog from puppyhood or as soon as possible
Schedule annual veterinary dental examinations and follow through on recommended cleanings
Do not dismiss signs of dental disease like bad breath, reluctance to chew, or pawing at the mouth
Advocate for dental health to be included in routine welfare checks in veterinary practice