How to Choose the Best Dental Care for Your Pet

tan dog with mouth open and line image of toothbrush with toothpaste
 
 

We all love sweet doggie kisses, but not stinky doggie breath. That stinky breath is a sign that your pet’s mouth needs some TLC. The key to a happy and healthy mouth starts with dental products that keep your pets’ chompers looking and smelling their best. Brushing is “best,” but we know it’s hard with especially sensitive dogs and cats. Read on to explore all your dental options.

Brushing

Brushing is just as beneficial to your pet’s teeth as it is to yours. Regular brushing can prevent bad breath and removes plaque and tartar buildup. Short, 1-2 minute brushing sessions make a huge difference in overall dental health.

When brushing, use pet-safe toothbrush or finger brush with toothpaste like Nylabone’s Natural Toothpaste. Focus on the outer parts of the teeth, brushing near the gum line in a circular motion. Brushing options depend on what works best for you and your pet.

Gels & Powders

Gels & Powders are great alternatives to brushing. Powders can easily be added to your pet’s food (cats too!), while gels are applied to the sides of your pet’s mouth.

  • Fresh Breath Clean Teeth Oral Care Gel has a unique blend of powerful, natural ingredients that removes and defends against plaque and tartar. Simply apply two drops to each side of your pet’s mouth once a day. After application, your pet will lick their lips repeatedly which helps the gel coat the teeth and gums. Check out their puppy formula and kitten formula!
  • Another natural alternative to tooth brushing that is enjoyable for pets and their humans is BioBrilliant Powder. This delicious formula contains the highest quality, natural ingredients with natural enzymes, anti-bacteria and minerals that will prevent plaque and bacteria from sticking to your pet’s teeth.

Dental Chews

Dental Chews are a highly effective alternative for pet’s who are not comfortable having their teeth brushed. Chews are designed to help remove stuck on plaque as your dog chews.

  • Terräbone - The chewy texture of each Terräbone maximizes dental health by conforming to your dog’s teeth and cleaning even the “hard‐to‐reach” places. Made from all natural, high quality ingredients, each Terräbone recipe is formulated for superior dental health, palatability, digestibility and functionality.
  • Greenies - A delightfully chewy texture that fights plaque and tartar, your dog can't wait to sink their teeth into these grain free dog treats. Irresistibly tasty and incredibly powerful, GREENIES are recommended by veterinarians for at-home oral care.
  • Whimzees – An all-natural ingredient dog treat designed with grooves and ridges to remove plaque and tartar as your dog chews. This gluten-free treat comes in five sizes ranging from extra-small to large.

Natural Deli Bones & Chews

Natural Deli Bones & Chews are a 100% natural option that helps clean teeth and gums as your pet chews. Their unique texture and shape helps prevent plaque buildup and encourages healthy enrichment opportunities.

  • Water Buffalo Horns are 100% free range & grass fed for the highest quality chew. The natural non-splintering & non-abrasive texture helps to clean teeth & gums as your pet chews. Water buffalo horns are a long lasting chew that will keep the toughest chewers occupied.
  • Antler Chews are a sustainable alternative to traditional bones and rawhide treats. The exposed marrow is abundant in calcium, zinc, and iron, making it a healthy and tasty snack. Antler chews promote dental health, preventing plaque by gently scraping away at tartar buildup.

Dental Treats

Dental Treats are tasty and appealing to the most finicky cats and dogs, and reduce tartar while offering complete nutrition.

  • Smile Dental Soft Chews will keep your cat’s grin gleaming. Developed by feline health experts, the proprietary formula of flavonoids, prebiotics, catnip and green tea extract goes beyond the surface to work from the inside out for your cat’s optimal dental health. With regular use, you’ll notice improved oral freshness and long-term benefits for teeth, gums and overall health.
  • Grin Dental Chews for dogs, provides a proactive solution for long-term dental health and fresh breath. A blend of natural ingredients and antibacterials target plaque and tartar build, while immune boosting prebiotics aid in healthy digestion, tackling bad breath odor from the inside out.

Providing your pet with a consistent dental care routine will avoid serious, and common, health problems down the road. Almost 80% of dogs and 70% of cats start showing signs of dental problems by 3 years old. Costly dental procedures are completely preventable. A consistent dental routine goes a long way towards protecting your pet.

(Not a substitute for professional veterinary help.)

Related Article: Fill Their Bone, Fill Their Time