What Are the Best Dental Chews for a Dog Prone to Periodontitis?

When it comes to your beloved pet dog, maintaining their overall health should be a top priority. This includes oral health care, which is often overlooked by pet owners. One of the most common health issues in dogs is periodontitis, a serious gum condition that can lead to severe pain and tooth loss. One way to combat this problem is through the use of dental chews. But with the vast array of products on the market, how do you know which are the best to maintain your dog’s oral health?

The Role of Dental Chews in a Dog’s Oral Health

Before diving into the best dental chews for dogs prone to periodontitis, it’s crucial to understand the role they play in oral health. Dental chews are much more than just a tasty treat for your dog. They are specifically designed to serve a functional purpose.

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Dental chews are products that dogs can gnaw on, which helps keep their teeth clean. They work by scraping off plaque and tartar build-up from your dog’s teeth, similar to how brushing works for human teeth. Not only this, but dental chews also stimulate saliva production, which helps to neutralise harmful bacteria in your dog’s mouth. This combined action makes dental chews a valuable tool in the fight against periodontitis.

Identifying the Right Size and Count of Dental Chews

Just like you wouldn’t give a small child a large piece of food to avoid choking, the same logic applies when choosing the right size of dental chews for your dog. Not only does the size of the chew matter for safety reasons, but it also plays a role in the effectiveness of the oral care the product provides.

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Dental chews come in various sizes, usually categorised as small, medium, and large. As a rule of thumb, always choose a chew that is appropriate for your dog’s size. For instance, a small breed like a Chihuahua will need a small chew, while a larger breed like a Labrador will require a larger one.

The count of dental chews you should purchase depends on how often you plan on using them. If you plan to give your dog a dental chew every day, then a higher count pack would be more cost-effective. However, if you only intend to use them a few times a week, then a lower count pack may suffice.

Opting for Natural and Healthy Dental Chews

In your quest to find the best dental chews for your dog, it’s imperative that you opt for natural and healthy options. Many dental chews on the market are loaded with artificial colours, flavours, and preservatives. While these might make the chew more appealing to your dog, they can also contribute to health issues in the long run.

Look for products made with natural ingredients, such as vegetables and high-quality proteins. These will not only be healthier for your dog but will also contribute to their overall well-being. Make sure the product is free from added sugars, as these can actually contribute to dental issues rather than helping to prevent them.

The Importance of Vet-Recommended Brands like Greenies

While there are many brands and types of dental chews available on the market, not all are created equal. Some brands may be more focused on creating a product that tastes good to your dog, rather than one that effectively promotes oral health. This is why opting for vet-recommended brands, like Greenies, is essential.

Greenies dental chews are one of the leading brands in the market due to their effectiveness and safety. Not only are they made with natural ingredients, but they also come in a variety of sizes to cater to all breeds. Greenies have been proven to significantly reduce tartar and plaque build-up, making them an excellent choice for dogs prone to periodontitis.

Shopping for Dental Chews: Online vs In-Store

Shopping for dental chews can be done both online and in-store, with both options having their own pros and cons. Shopping in-store allows you to physically inspect the product before purchase. You can check the size of the chews and read the ingredients list to ensure it meets your dog’s needs.

However, shopping online often provides a wider variety of options and typically offers more detailed product descriptions. You can also read customer reviews to see how other dogs have responded to the product. Whether you choose to shop in-store or online, always remember to consider the size, ingredients, and brand reputation of the dental chews before making a purchase.

Benefits of Long-Lasting Dental Chews

Long-lasting dental chews are a fantastic option for your dog’s oral health. These are designed to endure through extended periods of gnawing, offering greater benefits to your pet than standard chews.

Long-lasting dental chews, as the name suggests, can withstand prolonged chewing, providing your dog with more time to work on their dental care. The extended gnawing helps to scrape away more plaque and tartar, contributing to a healthier mouth. Additionally, the longer your dog spends chewing, the more saliva they produce. Remember, saliva is a natural defense mechanism for neutralizing harmful bacteria, which is a common cause of periodontal disease.

While selecting a long-lasting dental chew, consider your dog’s chew habits. Some dogs are aggressive chewers and may require more durable chews. Brands such as the widely acclaimed Greenies Petite, make long-lasting dental chews that cater to different chewing styles and sizes, from extra small to large dog breeds.

Moreover, long-lasting chews can keep your dog occupied for a considerable period, making them an excellent distraction if needed. However, it’s essential to monitor your dog while they’re enjoying these chew treats to prevent any choking hazards, especially with smaller trial-size treats.

Guide to Introduce Dental Chews to Aging Care Dogs

When it comes to introducing dental chews to aging care dogs, specific considerations need to be made. Aging dogs may have sensitive gums or missing teeth, which could make chewing on hard dental chews uncomfortable or even impossible.

Initially, introduce softer dental chews to your aging dog. These can be easier on their teeth and gums while still providing the much-needed dental care. Gradually, you can transition them to harder chews if they seem comfortable and show no signs of distress while chewing.

Another aspect to look at is the size of the dental chew. Aging care dogs may require smaller-sized treats, even if they belong to a larger breed. Brands like Pedigree Dentastix offer a range of sizes to accommodate both small and large dog breeds.

Furthermore, as your dog grows older, their dietary needs may change. It’s important to choose dental chews that align with their dietary requirements. For instance, some dental chews are specially formulated for senior dogs with added vitamins and minerals for joint health and overall well-being.

Wrapping Up: Best Dental Care Practices for Your Dog

Maintaining your dog’s oral health is paramount, and employing the right dental care strategies can make a significant difference. Regular vet check-ups, a balanced diet, and the right dental chews play an integral role in your dog’s oral health routine.

Dental chews are an excellent way to keep periodontal disease at bay. Not only do they scrape off plaque and tartar, but they also enhance saliva production, curbing bacterial growth in your dog’s mouth.

Remember, when choosing dental chews, opt for those that are natural, healthy, and the right size for your dog. Vet-recommended brands like Greenies are usually a safe bet. Additionally, long-lasting dental chews can provide extended dental care benefits to your pet.

For aging care dogs, introduce dental chews gradually, starting with softer, smaller treats that align with their dietary needs.

In the end, ensuring your dog has a healthy mouth will contribute to their overall well-being and happiness. After all, a healthy dog is a happy dog!