Welcome to Doggie Dialogue,
Our RUFF TAILS this week features a Cane Corso named Harvey!
My mom says I am a handsome little devil, and quirky, but very photogenic, as you can all see….
Now, let’s get serious, it’s time to strike a pose!
Can you say “Celebrity”
Oral hygiene is an important part of your dog’s overall health and well-being.
The best way to remove plaque is to simply brush your dog’s teeth with a dog toothbrush and dog-safe toothpaste. However, this will take your dog some time to get used to. Start slow. Most dogs are not used to having their faces touched in this manner.
We recommend gently stroking their nose and mouth before starting with the toothbrush. Over time, most dogs will get used to tooth brushing, especially if you find a tasty pet toothpaste.
There are chew toys designed to keep gums and teeth healthy by helping remove plaque from teeth. Most pet stores carry great chew toys, proper dog tooth brushes, and great tasting pet toothpaste.
Jaxon, one of our dogs, has had digestive and allergy issues since birth, therefore we made the decision to put both dogs on a raw diet. With raw food there is “bone-in” meals and whole pieces which encourages chewing and promotes oral health.
The same can be said about dry kibble as it does provide a dental benefit, as the dog crunches their kibble, it creates the scraping action that assist in cleaning their teeth.
We have not personally used the dental treats such as Greenies or Whimzees, but I do know a lot of dogs that love them!
Apple slices are also a great choice for keeping your dog’s teeth sparkling clean as well.
Apples are affordable, sweet, and a crispy snack for your dog. Apples are packed with essential vitamins and minerals, such as vitamin A, C, and K. Dogs prefer the sweeter varieties such as Gala, Honeycrisp, and Fuji. Apples contain malic acid, which aids in keeping your dog’s teeth clean and their breath fresh!
Remember, when giving your dog apple slices, remove the core and seeds.
Apples should be given in moderation, as too many apple slices will cause an upset stomach or diarrhea.
This summer I intend on freezing smaller and thinner apple slices for our dogs as a refreshing afternoon treat!
Signs of dental disease are the following:
1. Bad breath
2. Difficulty eating
3. Pawing at face or mouth
4. Tooth loss (sometimes comes with age)
5. Excessive drooling
6. Bumps or growths within the mouth
If any of the above occur please ask your veterinarian for a doggie dental check-up and advice on how to prevent oral problems in the future.