Companion Animal Welfare

Companion Dog Dental Disease and Systemic Health

Periodontal disease in dogs causes local pain and has systemic welfare consequences through bacteraemia affecting heart, kidney and liver health.

Key Facts

Over 80% of dogs over 3 years show clinical signs of periodontal disease
Oral bacteria from periodontitis enter the bloodstream and can damage heart valves and kidneys
Pain from dental disease affects eating, play and social behaviour in subtle ways
Professional dental cleaning under anaesthesia is required once disease is established
Daily toothbrushing is the only home care proven to prevent periodontal disease effectively

Welfare Considerations

Dental disease causes both local oral pain and systemic welfare harm through bacteraemia and organ effects. The cumulative welfare impact over a dog's lifetime from untreated periodontitis is substantial. Prevention through daily brushing from puppyhood prevents most dental disease at minimal cost.

What You Can Do

Begin daily toothbrushing with your puppy as early as possible
Have your dog's teeth professionally assessed at every annual vaccination visit
Ask your vet about dental health products if your dog does not tolerate brushing