Dental Food for Dogs
When you think of dog food for dental health, you may envision a perfect, all-encompassing single brand of kibble or wet food that is ideal for your dog's teeth and gums in every way. In reality, the best dental dog food for your dog could be a variety of things, including kibble brands, dental chews, and even frozen vegetables like baby carrots, which can help clean your dog's teeth while they eat them.
Our veterinarians at Cumberland Animal Clinic provide valuable insights on choosing the right food for your dog's dental health.
If you are looking for a particular brand of food that is known for helping with bad breath, tooth strength, and/or gum cleanliness, you can always consult your veterinarian! They will be able to make a recommendation based on your dog's current dental care needs.
Best Dog Food for Dental Issues
Several high-quality dry dog foods are designed to help remove plaque from their teeth while they chew. Wet dog foods frequently have lower fat levels to reduce the accumulation of food particles between the dog's teeth.
Dental treats and chews are highly effective ways for your dog to clean their teeth while eating. Some dogs do not eat kibble on a regular basis, so an occasional dental treat can help them chew off plaque. Remember that dental chews and kibble alone will not suffice. Manually brush any debris from your dog's teeth with doggy toothpaste. Their dental and gum health will improve, resulting in increased longevity.
If you feed your dog cooked food on a regular basis, avoid foods high in starch, such as boiled chicken (light meat, no skin) and pup-friendly vegetables. Dog teeth can wear down over time if they are not properly cleaned, as starch tends to accumulate on them. Starchy foods include chickpeas, lentils, peas, and root vegetables.
Kibble: Good for Teeth or Not?
As a dog owner, you've probably heard that kibble is better for your dog's dental health because of the active chewing and crunching. Most of the time, the kibble is too small to help your dog chew. Certain kibble brands provide larger pieces that encourage more chewing. However, the effectiveness of this may differ depending on the size of your dog's teeth and mouth.
Furthermore, "grain-free" kibble brands typically have higher levels of carbohydrates and starch than other types. If your dog has plaque buildup or bad breath, consider switching to a vet-recommended kibble brand.
Adding Probiotics & Prebiotics
Probiotics and prebiotics provide numerous benefits to both you and your dog, though they may not always be in the same form. Incorporating these items into your dog's diet can help improve their dental and gastrointestinal health.
Soft Dog Foods for Bad Teeth
You may be concerned about how hard food affects your dog's dental health and causes discomfort, especially if they already have issues with unhealthy teeth or bad breath due to age or lack of cleaning.
Consultation with your veterinarian is recommended, but in general, dogs with fractured teeth or inflamed/red gums may benefit from switching to softer foods. If your dog is picky, boiled chicken and vegetables are a good option. Some dog foods include dental probiotics directly in the paste-like formula.
Don't Stop Brushing!
It is important to remember that dental diets for dogs cannot replace regular at-home care and professional cleanings at your vet. Your dog cannot have long-lasting, healthy teeth or gums without brushing their teeth to manually remove plaque. Most dog breeds benefit from daily brushing; consult your veterinarian to see how often you should be brushing their teeth at home!
Note: The advice provided in this post is intended for informational purposes and does not constitute medical advice regarding pets. Please make an appointment with your vet for an accurate diagnosis of your pet's condition.