Monitoring Your Doodle’s Dental Health

Regularly checking your dog’s teeth is an essential part of maintaining their overall health. Dental care is often overlooked, but bad breath is usually the first sign that your dog’s teeth may need extra attention.

Puppy Dental DevelopmentPuppies develop temporary (deciduous) teeth at around one month of age. These baby teeth fall out easily and often go unnoticed when they are lost. In some cases, temporary teeth may remain in place alongside the adult teeth, which can cause crowding or misalignment. If this occurs, extraction may be necessary to protect the permanent teeth.Permanent teeth typically begin to erupt around four months old, with the adult canine teeth emerging between five and six months of age.

Routine Dental CareNot all dogs are eager to participate in tooth care, so starting early is beneficial. Introducing a dog toothbrush and toothpaste during puppyhood helps your dog become comfortable with the process. Healthy teeth should appear clean and white, without tartar buildup. Depending on your dog’s individual needs, brushing may be required several times a week, or periodic checks every week or two may be sufficient.Small breeds often experience more dental issues than larger breeds. If significant tartar develops, a professional cleaning by a veterinarian may eventually be necessary.

Preventive Dental Care Options

• Brushing with a dog-specific toothbrush and toothpaste

• Dental wipes designed for dogs

• Dental treats and chews

• Perio powders and kelp-based additives

• Feeding a dry food diet

• Oral rinses and water additives