Why is my dog drooling?

Other causes of dental diseases in dogs

Most dog owners assume that a dog will stop eating when there is something wrong with its teeth. Unfortunately, this is rarely the case. Most dogs will continue to eat despite experiencing a lot of discomfort. A dog's appetite may decrease, and it may refuse hard kibble but still want to eat wet food, for example.

Besides a change in appetite and excessive drooling, there are other symptoms that may indicate a dental disease in your dog. Discolored teeth, bad breath, slower eating, bright red gums, or chewing on one side of the mouth are examples of these symptoms.

What should I do if I suspect my dog has a dental disease?

If you suspect your dog has a dental disease, it is important to make an appointment with the veterinarian as soon as possible. A vet can perform a dental check to determine if the dog has dental problems. These examinations often take place under sedation or anesthesia. It may also be necessary to take X-rays of the teeth.

After the diagnosis is confirmed, it is important to treat the dental disease quickly. Treatment often consists of a professional dental cleaning where plaque and tartar are removed from under the gums. If necessary, loose or rotten teeth and molars are extracted.

In addition to dental cleaning or surgical procedures, antibiotics, painkillers, and/or anti-inflammatory drugs may be needed.

How can I prevent dental disease in my dog?

Although some dogs have a higher risk of developing dental diseases (especially older dogs, dogs with short snouts, and small dogs), you can significantly improve your dog's dental health by following a few simple steps:

• Brush your dog's teeth regularly with a soft toothbrush and special dog toothpaste. Start this at a young age so your dog can get used to tooth brushing.
• Have your dog's teeth checked regularly by a veterinarian and have them cleaned when necessary.
• Consider feeding hard kibble instead of wet food. Riverwood offers a wide range of hypoallergenic, crunchy dry foods. View our range of dry foods here.
• Give your dog a chew snack regularly. A snack that your dog has to chew on for a longer time helps scrape plaque off the teeth. View our range of natural chew snacks here.

Prevention is always better than cure. With the above tips for daily dental care, you can save high veterinary costs and ensure your dog has and keeps a bright smile!

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