Companion Animals

Canine Dental Disease Prevention and Welfare

Dental disease affects over 80% of dogs by age 3 and causes chronic pain that is often unrecognised because dogs continue to eat despite significant oral discomfort.

Key Facts

Over 80% of dogs show signs of dental disease by age 3
Dogs rarely stop eating even with severe dental pain, masking the condition
Periodontal disease causes tooth root abscesses, jaw bone loss, and bacteraemia
Daily toothbrushing is the most effective prevention method
Dental chews, water additives and dental diets have supporting evidence
Regular professional dental scaling under anaesthesia is the gold standard treatment

Welfare Considerations

Chronic dental pain in dogs is one of the most underrecognised welfare issues in companion animals. Dogs in severe pain continue eating, giving owners false assurance that no problem exists. Post-dental procedure behaviour changes (increased playfulness, better appetite) demonstrate that chronic pain was present. Daily toothbrushing from puppyhood prevents most dental disease and represents one of the highest-impact welfare interventions available to dog owners.

What You Can Do

Start toothbrushing training from puppyhood using dog-specific toothpaste
Book annual dental examinations with your vet as part of health checks
Consider dental scaling under anaesthesia if your vet identifies significant disease
Provide dental chews that carry the VOHC (Veterinary Oral Health Council) seal of acceptance
Use water additives or dental diets as supplements to brushing not replacements
Monitor for signs of dental pain: pawing at mouth, reluctance to eat hard food, behaviour changes