Many dog owners don’t understand why it is important to look after their pet’s teeth. The result is that almost 90% of all dogs over the age of three suffer from painful periodontal (gum) disease. Untreated dental disease is an animal welfare issue.

There are some clear signs that your dog may need some professional veterinary advice and attention to help you look after your pet’s teeth.

1. Bad breath – it’s not normal. Your pet’s breath won’t be minty fresh, but bad breath is caused by bacteria, and this is an indicator of disease.

2. Yellow or brown teeth – This means the bacterial plaque has mineralised. The result is a hard coating on the teeth which is a perfect home for more bacteria. It will need to be cleaned off by a veterinarian.

3. Red or bleeding gums. The colour of the gums around your dog’s teeth should be a coral pink colour. Redness, swelling and bleeding is not normal and is called gingivitis. Gingivitis is the first stage of periodontal disease and if treatment is implemented at this stage, it will save your pet a lot of pain.

4. Looking after your pet’s teeth can add up to FIVE YEARS to the life of your pet. That’s right, FIVE YEARS. This is due to bacteria in the mouth being linked to heart, kidney, liver and lung disease….

5. Drooling, not eating, pawing the muzzle and even crying. This is often behaviour that relates to dental disease and if your pet is showing these signs a visit to a veterinarian is a good idea.