Keeping Smiles Bright: Dog Dental Health with Newman's Dog Training
Oct 01, 2025
You lean down to give your pup a scratch under the chin and notice their breath isn’t exactly fresh. While it may seem like a minor issue, oral health plays a surprisingly big role in your dog’s overall well-being. Bad breath could be the first sign that your dog’s teeth and gums need more attention.
The Importance of Dog Dental Health
Dog dental health is about far more than fresh breath. Periodontal disease affects more than 80% of dogs over the age of three, and it can lead to painful inflammation, tooth loss, and even infections that spread beyond the mouth.
Science shows a clear connection between poor dental health and systemic illness. Bacteria from untreated dental disease can enter the bloodstream and place extra stress on the heart, kidneys, and liver. Over time, this can shorten your dog’s lifespan and reduce their quality of life.
From an evolutionary standpoint, wild canines avoided many of these issues because their diet naturally scraped plaque from their teeth. Tearing raw meat, crunching bones, and using teeth as tools all helped keep them clean. Today’s domesticated dogs eat softer, processed foods and rely on us for preventive care.
Practical Tips for Dog Dental Care
- Brush Regularly: The gold standard is brushing your dog’s teeth daily. Use a toothbrush designed for pets and toothpaste made specifically for dogs. Human toothpaste is not safe.
- Try Dental Diets: Specialized dental foods have larger, textured kibble that helps reduce plaque and tartar as your dog chews. Ask your veterinarian if a dental diet is right for your pup.
- Provide Chew Toys: Durable chew toys, especially those created for dental health, can help massage the gums and scrape away buildup. Always supervise chewing sessions to ensure safety.
- Schedule Professional Cleanings: Veterinarians can perform deep cleanings under anesthesia, removing tartar from below the gumline where brushing can’t reach. This is often the most effective way to prevent advanced dental disease.
At Newman’s Dog Training, we often see that behavior challenges like chewing or irritability are linked to discomfort. Keeping your dog’s mouth healthy supports both their physical comfort and their training success.
Fun Facts About Dog Dental Health
- Dogs have 42 adult teeth, while humans have only 32.
- Puppies start with 28 baby teeth that usually fall out by six months.
- Small breeds like Chihuahuas and Yorkies are more prone to dental problems because their teeth are crowded together.
- Dry kibble isn’t automatically better for teeth than wet food — chewing texture and brushing matter more.
Service dogs are often trained to accept tooth brushing early so they can stay fit for work throughout their careers.
When Dental Health Needs Extra Attention
Even with consistent care, some dogs still struggle with dental issues. Watch for these red flags:
- Persistent Bad Breath: A foul odor beyond “doggy breath” may signal infection or periodontal disease.
- Difficulty Eating: If your dog drops food, chews on one side, or avoids harder treats, their mouth could be painful.
- Bleeding or Red Gums: Inflamed gums are often a sign of gingivitis or early periodontal disease.
- Loose or Missing Teeth: These usually indicate advanced dental problems that need immediate veterinary attention.
If you notice any of these issues, schedule a veterinary exam. Professional cleanings, X-rays, or even extractions may be recommended. In more advanced cases, a referral to a veterinary dental specialist could be necessary.
Supporting Dental Health with Nutrition
Alongside brushing and vet visits, supplements can support long-term dental and gum health. NuVet Plus is one option we recommend exploring. It’s made with a blend of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants designed to strengthen the immune system and promote healthy teeth and gums. The wafers are tasty enough to feel like a treat, while also delivering lasting health benefits.
You can learn more or order directly at www.nuvet.com
Pairing supplements with brushing and professional care gives your dog the best chance at keeping their smile strong for years to come.
Final Thoughts
A clean, healthy mouth does more than protect your dog’s teeth, it supports their whole body and makes training, play, and family time more enjoyable. With regular care, the right diet, smart supplementation, and professional checkups, you can prevent painful issues and keep your pup smiling.
If your dog’s behavior or training progress is being affected by discomfort, our team at Newman’s Dog Training is here to help. We’ll give you strategies that make every outing enjoyable for both you and your pup.
We proudly offer dog training services in both Kansas City and Northwest Arkansas, including Bentonville, Fayetteville, and surrounding areas.
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Please contact us if you have any questions on these tips, [email protected]