Dog Bad Breath: The Culprit Could Be Dental Calculus!
Why Do Dogs Develop Tartar?
Dogs often develop tartar due to a combination of their longterm consumption of soft foods and the lack of timely dental care, which allows bacteria to thrive. Once tartar forms on a dog's teeth, it creates an ideal surface for a buildup of plaque. This plaque, when calcified, continues to accumulate on the existing tartar, causing it to grow larger over time. The constant irritation from tartar can lead to bad breath and periodontal disease in dogs.
What Can Pet Owners Do If Their Dog Already Has Tartar?
1. Professional Dental Cleaning: The first step for pet owners is to take their dog to a veterinarian for a dental cleaning. This involves thorough cleaning, polishing, and smoothing of the teeth with tartar, helping to prevent the tartar from worsening.
2. Adjusting the Diet: It's essential to modify your dog's diet and break the habit of eating soft foods. After removing the tartar, preventing its recurrence is crucial. Changing your dog's preference for soft foods is a longterm solution. While soft foods are easier on their digestion, they also tend to stick to a dog's teeth. If you can't brush your dog's teeth regularly, switching to a highquality dry dog food can be a more practical choice.
3. Regular Brushing: Don't forget that even with dry food, regular dental care is vital. Encourage your dog to maintain good oral hygiene by brushing their teeth regularly. Additionally, you can provide dental chews for your dog to play with, which can also aid in cleaning their teeth.
Important Reminder from Oxygen Pet Doctor:
Don't underestimate the issue of tartar in dogs. While tartar can be easily managed if addressed promptly, neglecting it can lead to a progression of problems. For the health of your furry friend, it's crucial that you take tartar seriously and show enough care and attention to your dog's dental health.
