A dog’s oral health is just as important as its overall physical wellbeing. Just like humans, dogs can suffer from tooth decay and gum disease if their dental hygiene isn’t properly maintained. While regular brushing and dental check-ups are essential, one often overlooked aspect of canine dental care is diet. Certain foods can contribute to plaque build-up and tooth decay in dogs. Here’s a list of foods your dog should stay away from to avoid unnecessary dentist trips.
1. Sweets and Sugary Treats
Just like in humans, sugar is a major culprit when it comes to tooth decay in dogs. Bacteria in your dog’s mouth can convert sugars into harmful acids that erode tooth enamel, leading to cavities and other dental issues. Avoid giving your dog sweets, including chocolate (which is toxic to dogs anyway), candies, cookies, and even some commercially available dog treats that are high in sugar.
2. Sticky Foods
Sticky foods such as peanut butter, dried fruit, or cheese can stick to your dog’s teeth and create an environment conducive to bacteria growth. If these foods aren’t properly cleaned off, they could lead to plaque build-up and eventually tooth decay.
3. Hard Bones and Chews
While it might seem counterintuitive, very hard bones or chews can actually damage your dog’s teeth. They can cause fractures or cracks in the teeth, which can lead to serious dental problems. Instead, opt for dental chews specifically designed for dogs, which help clean their teeth without risking damage.
4. Canned Foods
Canned dog food, while convenient and often delicious for your pet, can stick to their teeth more than dry food, promoting the growth of plaque and tartar. If you do feed your dog canned food, ensure you brush their teeth regularly and thoroughly.
5. Citrus Fruits
While not inherently bad for dogs, citrus fruits like oranges and lemons contain acids that can erode tooth enamel if consumed in large quantities. It’s best to limit your dog’s intake of these fruits.
Your Pup’s Dental Health Is Important
Now that we have explored of what to be aware of, as dog owners in Southwest Florida. we also need to be especially vigilant about our pet’s dental health due to the region’s warm climate, which can foster bacterial growth in a dog’s mouth. A good dental hygiene routine, including regular brushings and professional cleanings, is essential in avoiding all of these potential problems from food to environment. The key is to strike a balance between maintaining strict dental hygiene and allowing your furry friend those occasional treats. This balance will ensure your dog leads a healthy, happy lifestyle while minimizing the risk of dental issues.
By partnering with My BFF Mobile Pet Grooming Services in Fort Myers, you can ensure that your pup receives professional dental care, expert teeth brushing and early detection of any potential problems with our mobile dog teeth brushing services. Don’t overlook this crucial aspect of grooming – prioritize your dog’s ear health for their overall well-being.
Ready To Get Your Dog’s Teeth Brushing Professionally done?
Just give us a call. From the moment you step in our mobile dog grooming van, you’ll feel like family with our friendly and knowledgeable staff. We use only the best products and techniques to ensure your dog leaves not only looking their best but feeling their best too. At My BFF, we understand that every dog is unique and treat them as such. Give us a try and see the difference for yourself!
Contact My BFF Mobile Pet Grooming Services in Fort Myers today to schedule an appointment and give your dog’s ears the attention they deserve. Give us a call at: 239) 339-3056 or email us directly at: info@my-bff.net. You can always click up top on our Mobile Dog Grooming Appointment Tab to start the process online
Disclaimer: This article is intended for informational purposes only. It’s not a substitute for professional veterinary advice, diagnosis, or treatment.