Companion Animals

Dog Canine Preventive Dental Care Welfare

Dental disease is the most prevalent health problem in dogs, yet is highly preventable through early-established home care routines.

Key Facts

Over 80 percent of dogs show signs of periodontal disease by age 3
Periodontal disease causes chronic pain, bone loss, and systemic organ damage
Daily tooth brushing reduces plaque accumulation by over 90 percent
Dental chews and water additives provide partial but incomplete plaque control
Annual professional dental cleaning under anaesthesia complements home care

Welfare Considerations

Dogs with periodontal disease experience chronic oral pain that affects eating, play, and social interaction. Preventive care begun in puppyhood dramatically reduces lifetime dental suffering.

What You Can Do

Begin tooth brushing training in puppies using positive reinforcement from day one
Schedule annual dental health checks for all adult dogs
Discuss evidence-based dental products with your vet for dogs that resist brushing