Dante Carrillo
A dog's diet can play a significant role in preventing dental disease. While daily tooth brushing and professional dental cleanings are the best ways to prevent periodontal disease, certain foods can help scrub away plaque and maintain oral health. For example, dry food has been shown to improve dental health compared to canned food, and raw food can also reduce the likelihood of periodontal disease. Additionally, specific dental diets are available that are designed to provide the same nutrients as regular dog food while also promoting dental health. These diets often include larger kibble sizes and a fibrous texture to help break down and remove plaque and food debris from teeth. Furthermore, certain fruits and vegetables, such as carrots, apples, and pumpkin, can be offered as treats that provide teeth-cleaning benefits and antioxidants to manage chronic oxidative stress, which is a known cause of periodontitis.
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What You'll Learn
Dry food vs. canned food
The consensus is that dry food is better for a dog's dental health than canned food. This is because moist food can get stuck in the crevices around a dog's teeth and provide a substrate for bacterial growth. However, studies have shown that dry food alone does not contribute to improved oral health. The texture and makeup of the food can impact the environment of the dog's mouth, and some sources say that the only scientifically proven way to decrease plaque and tartar is through daily brushing and routine tartar removal by a health professional.
Some dry dog foods are better for a dog's teeth than others. For example, Prescription Diet Canine T/d and Purina Dental Health for Canines are specifically designed to improve dental health. Food with a larger kibble size can also help, as it forces the dog to chew each piece instead of swallowing them whole, and the larger kibbles can help to scrape plaque from the surface of the teeth.
There are also other options for improving a dog's dental health through its diet. For example, raw meaty bones can help remove plaque due to their mildly abrasive texture and ability to flex around the teeth. However, raw meat can carry bacteria that can be hazardous to both pets and humans, so caution is advised. There are also dental diets that are approved by the Veterinary Oral Health Council (VOHC), which has two levels of award: plaque control and tartar control.
It is important to note that diet is not a replacement for proper dental care. In addition to diet, it is recommended to brush a dog's teeth daily and provide chewing toys or treats to promote oral health. Regular dental cleanings and evaluations by a veterinarian are also essential to maintaining a dog's dental health.
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Dental chews and treats
One option for dental chews is vegetable-based chews. These chews are not only tasty for your dog but also provide an outlet for them to relieve boredom and anxiety without chewing on your belongings. They can also be used during training to teach your dog what they are allowed to chew on. Additionally, many dogs enjoy snacking on fruits and vegetables like carrots, apples, and pumpkin, which can help keep their teeth clean and provide antioxidants to manage chronic oxidative stress, a cause of periodontitis.
Another option for dental chews and treats are commercial dental dog foods. These diets are formulated to provide the same nutrients as regular dog food while also including additional nutrients that are vital to dental health. Many of these dental diets have larger kibble sizes and a fibrous texture that helps to break down and scrub away plaque and food debris. Some examples of commercial dental dog foods include Royal Canin Canine Dental, Hills Healthy Advantage Oral+, and Purina Dental Health Diet.
It is important to note that dental chews and treats should not replace regular dental care for your dog. While they can be a helpful supplement to your dog's dental health, it is still important to prioritize daily tooth brushing and regular professional dental cleanings. Additionally, when introducing new dental chews or treats, it is recommended to do so slowly over a period of 5 to 7 days to avoid upsetting your dog's stomach.
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Commercial dental dog food
There are several options available for commercial dental dog food, each with unique characteristics. For instance, Royal Canin Canine Dental has a proprietary ingredient that assists with curbing plaque and tartar buildup. The kibble is larger in size and has a stronger fiber matrix, helping to "brush" the teeth as the dog chews. It is available in both larger and smaller kibble sizes to suit different dog breeds.
Another option is the Purina Dental Health Diet, which is formulated with a crunchy kibble texture to reduce tartar buildup. This diet also comes in large and small bite versions to accommodate dogs of all sizes. Hills Healthy Advantage Oral+ is a prescription diet available through veterinary clinics. It includes a coating that assists in minimizing plaque buildup and halitosis (bad breath).
It is important to note that while these diets can be beneficial, they should be used in conjunction with other oral care practices. Daily dental home care, such as brushing your dog's teeth, is essential to maintaining good oral hygiene. Additionally, regular professional dental cleanings and periodontal therapy are recommended to ensure optimal dental health for your dog.
When choosing a commercial dental dog food, it is always advisable to consult your veterinarian. They can recommend a food that supports your dog's overall health and oral care needs and guide you in gradually transitioning to a new diet.
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Raw food and bones
Raw bones are also a source of essential nutrients, including calcium, phosphorus, and protein. These nutrients are beneficial for your dog's dental health, as calcium and phosphorus help to strengthen teeth and gums, while protein supports tissue repair and regeneration.
However, it is important to note that not all bones are safe for dogs. Some bones, such as pork and rib bones, can be dangerous, even when raw. These bones are prone to splintering, which can lead to choking, broken teeth, or internal injuries. It is always recommended to consult with your veterinarian before introducing any new food to your dog's diet, especially raw bones.
To ensure the safety of your dog and your family, it is crucial to follow safe raw food handling practices. This includes proper sanitation, such as washing hands and surfaces after handling raw products, and storing bones in the fridge or freezer. Supervising your dog while they chew on bones is also necessary to prevent choking or other accidents.
Additionally, raw bones should be offered in appropriate sizes and quantities. Choose a bone that is slightly bigger than your dog's head, preventing them from swallowing it whole but still allowing them to handle it comfortably. Start with smaller pieces and gradually increase the size to build up their chewing skills.
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Fruits and vegetables
A raw diet of muscle meats, bones, organs, eggs, vegetables, fruit, and dairy can be introduced to dogs to improve their dental health. Fruits and vegetables are rich in antioxidants that help manage chronic oxidative stress, which is known to cause periodontitis. Some fruits and vegetables that dogs enjoy include carrots, apples, and pumpkin, which are easy to eat and do not stick to the teeth. These treats are designed to clear plaque and debris from a dog's teeth.
However, it is important to note that fruits and vegetables should only account for 10% of a dog's daily food intake. Additionally, while some raw bones can be great for removing bacteria and debris around a dog's teeth, it is important to ensure that the bones are not cooked, as they can splinter and cause serious harm.
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Frequently asked questions
Prescription diets such as Hills Healthy Advantage Oral+, Purina Dental Health Diet, and Royal Canin Canine Dental are all formulated to improve dogs' oral health. These foods are designed to be crunchier and larger than conventional kibble, which helps to "'brush'" the teeth as the dog chews, reducing plaque and tartar buildup.
While dry dog food was previously recommended by veterinarians to prevent periodontal disease, clinical studies have shown that dry food alone does not contribute to improved oral health. However, some modern dry foods are specifically designed to promote oral health and can be beneficial in this regard.
Probiotics and prebiotics are beneficial for dogs' oral health, as they help to establish a healthy balance of bacteria in the mouth. Meat products, fish, and eggs are also good for dental health, as they contain amino acids that break down bacteria and glycolic acid, a form of sugar.
Yes, there are many products that support oral care for dogs, such as dental chews with special coatings or treats. However, these may not be as effective as prescription diets, as they are not used at every meal. Additionally, daily tooth brushing and regular professional dental cleanings are important for preventing periodontal disease in dogs.
