Top 10 Dog Foods for Dogs with Bad Teeth šš¦·
When your dog has dental issues, it can be challenging to find food thatās both easy for them to eat and packed with the right nutrients. Dogs with bad teeth, whether due to age, injury, or dental disease, often struggle with dry kibble and may avoid food altogether if itās too painful to chew. To help, weāve curated a list of the best dog foods that are soft, nutritious, and perfect for dogs with dental problems.
Key Takeaways: Quick Answers for Choosing Dog Food for Bad Teeth
- What kind of food is best for dogs with bad teeth?Ā Soft wet foods, grain-free options, and softened kibble are ideal.
- Should I avoid hard kibble?Ā Not necessarily. Some kibbles designed for dental health can be softened with water or broth.
- Are there specific ingredients to look for?Ā Yes, opt for high-quality protein, dental-support formulas, and ingredients like glucosamine for joint support.
- What about homemade options?Ā Homemade or freshly prepared food can work well, but it must be nutritionally balanced.
- How can I make dry food easier for my dog to eat?Ā Add warm water or broth to soften the kibble without compromising nutritional value.
What Are the Best Dog Foods for Dogs with Bad Teeth? Our Top 10 Picks š¦“š½ļø
Here are the top 10 dog foods that provide easy-to-eat textures, high nutritional value, and extra support for dogs with dental problems:
Brand | Type (Wet/Dry) | Key Benefits | š” Why Itās Great for Dogs with Bad Teeth |
---|---|---|---|
Hillās Science Diet Adult 7+ | Wet | Soft, easily digestible; promotes dental and digestive health. | Gentle on teeth with a smooth texture. |
Royal Canin Veterinary Dental | Dry | Specially designed kibble that helps clean teeth while being easy to chew. | Can be softened with water for easier chewing. |
Blue Buffalo Homestyle Recipe | Wet | Real meat ingredients; no artificial preservatives. | Soft and flavorful, ideal for sensitive teeth. |
Wellness CORE RawRev | Freeze-Dried Raw | Freeze-dried bits for a crunchy texture thatās easy to soften. | Great for blending with water or broth. |
Merrick Lilā Plates Small Breed | Wet | High-protein, grain-free formula for small dogs with sensitive teeth. | Soft texture, perfect for smaller dogs. |
Purina Pro Plan Savor Adult | Wet | Contains high-quality protein and rich gravy for flavor. | Rich, soft food thatās gentle on bad teeth. |
Cesar Wet Dog Food Classic | Wet | Soft, single-serve portions for easy feeding. | Smooth pate texture thatās easy to eat. |
The Farmerās Dog | Fresh Cooked | Human-grade, freshly prepared meals delivered to your door. | Customizable and easy on the teeth. |
Nutro Ultra Grain-Free | Wet | Grain-free, natural ingredients with added vitamins and minerals. | Soft chunks in gravy, easy to chew. |
Taste of the Wild Pacific Stream | Wet | High in protein, easily digestible for sensitive stomachs. | Soft, nutrient-dense formula ideal for seniors. |
š” Pro Tip: If your dog prefers dry food but struggles with chewing, you can soften the kibble by adding a bit of warm water or low-sodium broth. This makes it easier to eat while still maintaining the foodās nutritional value.
Why Do Dogs with Bad Teeth Need Special Food? Itās All About Comfort and Nutrition š¶
Dogs with bad teeth often experience pain or discomfort when eating hard or crunchy foods, which can lead to reduced appetite and weight loss. Dental issues, including periodontal disease, missing teeth, or tooth decay, are common in dogs, especially as they age. This is why itās important to choose foods that are easy to chew, soft in texture, and still packed with essential nutrients.
- Reduced Chewing Ability:Ā Dogs withĀ missing teethĀ orĀ dental diseaseĀ may not be able to break down dry kibble effectively, making it difficult for them to eat enough food to meet their daily nutritional needs.
- Pain While Chewing:Ā Chewing hard kibble can exacerbate pain for dogs withĀ sensitive gumsĀ or decayed teeth, discouraging them from eating altogether. Wet foods or softened dry foods are a gentler option.
- Nutritional Balance:Ā Dogs with bad teeth need food thatās not only easy to eat but alsoĀ nutritionally balanced, providing adequate protein, vitamins, and minerals to support overall health.
š” Pro Tip: Always consult your vet if your dog has significant dental issues. In some cases, your vet may recommend a special dental diet or suggest adding dental treats designed to clean teeth while being easy to chew.
Should I Choose Wet Food or Dry Food for My Dog with Bad Teeth? Hereās the Breakdown š²
Both wet and dry food can work for dogs with dental problems, but each has its advantages:
Food Type | Benefits | Ideal For | š” Considerations |
---|---|---|---|
Wet Food | Soft, easy to chew; high moisture content. | Dogs with missing teeth or painful gums. | Watch for calorie content to avoid weight gain. |
Dry Food (Softened) | Crunchy texture, can be softened with water or broth. | Dogs who prefer kibble but struggle with hard textures. | Add water or broth for easier chewing. |
Freeze-Dried or Fresh | Freeze-dried raw or freshly prepared meals are easy to customize. | Dogs with sensitive digestion or food allergies. | May require preparation or subscription services. |
š” Pro Tip: You donāt have to stick with just one type of food. Try mixing wet and dry food to provide texture variety, or use dry kibble as treats if your dog enjoys the crunch but struggles with larger meals.
What Ingredients Should I Look for in Dog Food for Dental Issues? Prioritize Softness and Nutrients š
When shopping for dog food thatās suitable for dogs with bad teeth, look for the following key ingredients:
Ingredient | Why Itās Important | š” Best Food Examples |
---|---|---|
High-Quality Protein | Helps maintain muscle mass and overall health, especially in senior dogs. | Taste of the Wild Pacific Stream, The Farmerās Dog |
Glucosamine & Chondroitin | Supports joint health, which is especially important for older dogs. | Hillās Science Diet Adult 7+, Merrick Lilā Plates |
Omega-3 Fatty Acids | Promotes healthy skin and coat while reducing inflammation. | Nutro Ultra Grain-Free, Blue Buffalo |
Easy-to-Digest Carbohydrates | For sensitive stomachs, especially if your dog has digestion issues due to age or diet. | Royal Canin, Purina Pro Plan |
Low Sodium | Reduces strain on kidneys and heart, especially in senior dogs. | The Farmerās Dog, Taste of the Wild |
š” Pro Tip: If your dog has allergies or food sensitivities, consider a limited-ingredient diet that focuses on easily digestible proteins like chicken, lamb, or fish.
How Can I Make Dry Food Easier for My Dog with Bad Teeth to Eat? Tips for Softening Kibble š”ļø
If your dog prefers dry kibble but has trouble chewing it, there are several easy ways to soften the food:
- Add Warm Water or Broth:Ā One of the simplest methods is to pour a littleĀ warm waterĀ orĀ low-sodium brothĀ over the kibble. Let it sit for a few minutes until it becomes soft enough for your dog to chew without discomfort.
- Mix with Wet Food:Ā Mixing dry kibble with a small portion ofĀ wet foodĀ can create a softer texture while keeping the familiar crunch that your dog enjoys.
- Microwave Dry Food with Water:Ā Place the dry food in a microwave-safe dish, add a bit of water, and microwave for a few seconds. This warms and softens the kibble, making it easier for dogs with bad teeth to eat.
- Use a Blender:Ā If your dog has severe dental issues, you can blend dry kibble with water or broth to create a soft, porridge-like consistency. This ensures they get all the nutrition from the kibble without needing to chew.
š” Pro Tip: Be cautious when adding broth to your dogās food. Opt for low-sodium, unsalted broth to avoid excess salt, which can be harmful to your dogās health.
Quick Recap: What to Look for in Food for Dogs with Bad Teeth
- ChooseĀ wet or softened foodĀ to make eating easier.
- Look forĀ high-quality proteinsĀ and ingredients that promote dental and overall health.
- If your dog prefers dry food,Ā soften it with waterĀ or broth.
- PrioritizeĀ digestible ingredientsĀ that are easy on the stomach.
By following these guidelines, youāll help your dog enjoy mealtime againāeven with bad teeth! š¾
Comment 1: āIāve tried softening my dogās kibble with water, but sheās still not interested. What else can I do to make it more appealing?ā
Answer: If your dog is still turning her nose up at softened kibble, it may be a combination of taste, texture, or even smell thatās putting her off. Here are some other ways to make her food more appealing without compromising her nutritional intake:
- Try a Tasty Topper:Ā Adding aĀ flavorful topperĀ can make a big difference. You can try things likeĀ bone brothĀ (unsalted),Ā plain cooked chicken, or even a small spoonful ofĀ wet dog foodĀ mixed in with the softened kibble. The added moisture and flavor can make the meal more enticing, while still ensuring your dog is getting the benefits of her regular diet.
- Rotate Flavors:Ā If your dog is losing interest in her current food, she may just be bored of the flavor. Consider rotating between different flavors or proteins within the same brand. For example, if sheās been eating chicken-flavored kibble, try mixing inĀ salmon or beefĀ for a change.
- Warm It Up:Ā Warming up the food slightly can enhance itsĀ aromaĀ and make it more appetizing. Try microwaving the softened kibble for a few seconds to release the natural smells, which may stimulate her appetite.
- Experiment with Texture:Ā Some dogs may still prefer a bit of texture in their food, even if they have dental issues. You can try mixingĀ half wet food and half softened kibbleĀ to offer a combination of smoothness and crunch that may be more satisfying for your dog.
- Use Low-Sodium Broth Instead of Water:Ā If youāre using just water to soften the kibble, try switching toĀ low-sodium chicken or beef broth. The added flavor can make the food far more attractive while providing additional nutrients.
š” Pro Tip: Always monitor your dogās weight and energy levels. If sheās consistently refusing food, itās important to consult with your vet to rule out any underlying issues like dental pain or gastrointestinal problems that could be contributing to her reluctance to eat.
Comment 2: āMy senior dog has only a few teeth left. Is it safe to feed him wet food exclusively?ā
Answer: Absolutely! Feeding your senior dog wet food exclusively can be a great option, especially if he has few or no teeth left. Wet food is not only easier to chew, but itās also highly palatable and provides extra moisture, which is important for older dogs who may not drink as much water.
Hereās why wet food is ideal for toothless or nearly toothless dogs:
- Soft Texture:Ā Wet food has a naturallyĀ soft consistency, making it easy for your dog to eat without needing to chew. Whether itās pate, shredded meat, or chunks in gravy, your dog can easily lap up the food and swallow it without discomfort.
- Hydration Benefits:Ā Since wet food containsĀ higher water contentĀ (usually around 70-80%), it helps keep your dog hydrated, which is especially important for senior dogs who may be prone to dehydration or kidney issues. This is particularly beneficial if your dog isnāt drinking as much as he should.
- Nutritionally Complete:Ā High-quality wet food is designed to beĀ nutritionally complete and balanced, meaning it can provide all the essential nutrients your dog needs without requiring any supplementation. Brands likeĀ Hillās Science DietĀ orĀ Royal Canin Aging 12+Ā offer formulas specifically tailored to senior dogs, addressing their unique needs with added vitamins and minerals.
- Variety of Flavors and Textures:Ā Even though your dog may have lost his teeth, that doesnāt mean he canāt enjoy a variety of textures and flavors! Many wet food brands offer different textures likeĀ pate, shredded meat, or chunksĀ that keep meals exciting and enjoyable for your senior pup.
š” Pro Tip: If youāre concerned about missing out on the dental benefits of kibble, consider adding dental chews designed for older dogs with sensitive teeth. These chews are softer but still help keep gums healthy and reduce plaque buildup.
Comment 3: āMy dog has bad teeth and sensitive digestion. Whatās the best food for this combination of issues?ā
Answer: When your dog has both dental issues and sensitive digestion, itās important to find a food thatās gentle on both their stomach and their teeth. Here are the key features to look for when choosing the right food for this combination of concerns:
- Easily Digestible Proteins:Ā Opt for dog foods that useĀ high-quality, easily digestible proteinsĀ like chicken, turkey, or fish. These proteins are gentle on your dogās digestive system and less likely to cause gastrointestinal upset. Foods likeĀ Blue Buffalo BasicsĀ orĀ Hillās Science Diet Sensitive StomachĀ are great options, as they focus on easy-to-digest ingredients.
- Grain-Free or Limited-Ingredient Diets:Ā For dogs with sensitive digestion, itās often beneficial to choose aĀ grain-freeĀ orĀ limited-ingredient dietĀ to reduce the chances of food sensitivities or allergies. These diets remove common allergens like corn, wheat, or soy and focus on simpler, more natural ingredients.Ā Nutro Ultra Grain-FreeĀ orĀ Taste of the Wild Pacific StreamĀ are excellent choices.
- Soft or Wet Food Options:Ā Because your dog has dental issues, soft or wet food is ideal to avoid causing pain or discomfort while eating. Look for formulas that are soft in texture or can be easily mashed. Wet foods likeĀ Royal Canin Veterinary Gastrointestinal Low FatĀ are formulated specifically for sensitive stomachs and offer a smooth texture thatās easy to eat.
- Added Probiotics and Fiber:Ā Probiotics can help support your dogās digestive health by promoting a healthy gut microbiome. Foods likeĀ Purina Pro Plan Sensitive Skin & StomachĀ orĀ Merrick Grain-Free Wet FoodĀ often include addedĀ probioticsĀ and fiber to aid digestion and prevent upset stomachs.
š” Pro Tip: Introduce any new food gradually over a week to allow your dogās digestive system to adjust. Start by mixing a small amount of the new food with their current food and gradually increase the proportion each day to avoid any digestive upset.
Comment 4: āShould I consider dental chews for my dog with bad teeth, or could they cause more harm than good?ā
Answer: Dental chews can be helpful for maintaining your dogās oral hygiene, but with bad teeth, you need to choose carefully. Hereās what to consider:
- Soft Dental Chews:Ā If your dog has dental issues, youāll want to avoid hard, rigid chews that could worsen tooth pain or cause further damage. Instead, look forĀ softer dental chewsĀ that are specifically designed for senior dogs or dogs with sensitive teeth. Brands likeĀ Greenies Senior Dental ChewsĀ offer a softer consistency thatās gentle on the teeth but still effective at reducing plaque and tartar buildup.
- Chews with Added Benefits:Ā Some dental chews containĀ enzymesĀ orĀ antioxidantsĀ that help clean your dogās teeth and freshen their breath without requiring intense chewing. These are a great option for dogs with more severe dental problems or missing teeth.
- Alternative Dental Solutions:Ā If your dogās teeth are in bad shape and even soft chews might be too hard, there areĀ dental spraysĀ andĀ water additivesĀ that help maintain oral hygiene. These products work by reducing bacteria in the mouth, which can slow the progression of dental disease and keep your dogās breath fresh.Ā Vet-recommended dental wipesĀ can also be used to clean your dogās teeth gently, without requiring any chewing at all.
- Monitor Their Reaction:Ā Always supervise your dog when giving them a dental chew, especially if they have bad teeth. Make sure theyāre chewing slowly and comfortably. If they seem to be struggling or if the chew appears too hard, itās best to remove it and try a different option.
š” Pro Tip: Talk to your vet about which dental chews are safest for your dogās specific dental condition. In some cases, dental chews may not be appropriate, and your vet can recommend other safe and effective alternatives for maintaining oral health.
Comment 5: āAre homemade dog food options a good choice for dogs with dental issues, and how do I ensure itās balanced?ā
Answer: Homemade dog food can be a great option for dogs with dental issues, as it allows you to control both the texture and the ingredients. However, itās essential to ensure the diet is nutritionally complete to avoid deficiencies. Hereās how to create a balanced homemade diet for a dog with bad teeth:
- Choose Soft, Easy-to-Chew Ingredients:Ā Opt for foods that are naturally soft or can be easily mashed, such asĀ cooked chicken, turkey, or fish, as well asĀ steamed vegetablesĀ like sweet potatoes or carrots. These are easy for dogs with bad teeth to eat without discomfort.
- Include Healthy Fats and Carbohydrates:Ā Add healthy sources of fat, such asĀ olive oilĀ orĀ coconut oil, to provide energy and support skin and coat health. For carbohydrates, chooseĀ easy-to-digest optionsĀ likeĀ brown rice, quinoa, or oats.
- Incorporate Supplements for Complete Nutrition:Ā Dogs require specific nutrients, such asĀ calcium, taurine, and vitamins A and D, which may not be naturally present in homemade food. To ensure your dog is getting aĀ balanced diet, consider adding aĀ commercial dog food supplementĀ likeĀ BalanceITĀ orĀ Canine Complete, which provides the necessary vitamins and minerals.
- Monitor Protein Levels:Ā Ensure that the homemade diet has a sufficient amount of high-quality protein, which is essential for your dogās muscle maintenance and overall health. Chicken, turkey, fish, and lean cuts of beef are good protein sources that can be easily incorporated into a soft diet.
š” Pro Tip: Always consult with a veterinary nutritionist before committing to a homemade diet. They can help you create a customized recipe that meets all of your dogās nutritional needs while considering their dental condition. Regular checkups are also key to monitoring your dogās overall health on a homemade diet.
Comment 6: āIāve heard that brushing my dogās teeth is the best way to help with dental problems, but my dog hates it. What are some alternatives?ā
Answer: While brushing your dogās teeth is indeed the gold standard for maintaining oral health, itās not always easy, especially if your dog resists it. Fortunately, there are several effective alternatives that can help reduce plaque and tartar buildup, freshen breath, and support dental health without the stress of brushing:
- Dental Water Additives:Ā One of the easiest options is to use aĀ dental water additive, which you simply mix into your dogās water bowl. These additives help reduce the bacteria in your dogās mouth, which in turn slows the formation of plaque and tartar. Brands likeĀ OxyfreshĀ orĀ TropiCleanĀ are designed to be tasteless and odorless, so your dog wonāt even notice the addition, making it a stress-free solution.
- Dental Chews and Toys:Ā If your dog enjoys chewing, look forĀ soft dental chewsĀ designed to clean teeth as they chew. Products likeĀ GreeniesĀ orĀ WhimzeesĀ are not only tasty but also help scrape off plaque while being gentle on the gums. There are alsoĀ rubber chew toysĀ with ridges that act as a sort of toothbrush, massaging the gums and cleaning the teeth while your dog plays.
- Dental Wipes:Ā If brushing is too much for your dog, consider usingĀ dental wipesĀ as an alternative. These wipes are coated with enzymatic solutions that help break down plaque and bacteria. You can gently rub the wipes on your dogās teeth and gums, making this a quick and less invasive option. Look for wipes specifically formulated for dogs, such asĀ Vetās Best Dental Care Wipes.
- Raw Bones (Under Supervision):Ā OfferingĀ raw bonesĀ (never cooked) can help naturally clean your dogās teeth. The action of gnawing on the bone scrapes away plaque, much like brushing. However, always supervise your dog while chewing on bones to prevent choking or splintering, and consult with your vet about the right type of bone for your dog.
- Enzymatic Gels and Sprays:Ā Enzymatic dental gelsĀ or sprays are another hands-off solution. These gels contain enzymes that help break down food particles and bacteria, preventing plaque formation. You can apply the gel directly to your dogās teeth or gums, and theyāll work even if your dog doesnāt let you brush thoroughly. Sprays likeĀ Petsmile Professional Dog ToothpasteĀ can be applied quickly and are effective without the need for scrubbing.
š” Pro Tip: Even if your dog doesnāt tolerate brushing, try to ease them into dental care by starting with something less invasive, like wipes or sprays, and gradually introducing more hands-on methods. Consistency is key, so use whichever method works best for your dog on a daily basis to maintain their oral health.
Comment 7: āHow often should I feed my dog wet food if they have bad teeth? Can I give it daily, or should it be a mix of wet and dry?ā
Answer: For a dog with bad teeth, wet food can safely be given daily, and itās often the preferred option since itās softer and easier to chew. However, whether you stick solely to wet food or mix it with dry food depends on your dogās individual needs and preferences:
- Daily Wet Food:Ā Wet food is a fantastic daily option for dogs with dental issues because itās softer and doesnāt require chewing. Brands likeĀ Hillās Science Diet WetĀ orĀ Purina Pro PlanĀ are specifically formulated to provide aĀ complete and balanced diet, so your dog will get all the necessary nutrients even if theyāre only eating wet food. The higher moisture content in wet food also helps keep your dog hydrated, which is especially important for dogs prone to dental or kidney issues.
- Mixing Wet and Dry Food:Ā If your dog enjoys a little crunch, you can mixĀ softened dry kibbleĀ with wet food to create a more varied texture. Some dogs prefer the contrast between the two, and it can encourage them to eat more if theyāre picky. To soften kibble, add a littleĀ warm water or broth, and then mix it with the wet food. This approach provides the benefits of both wet and dry food while still being gentle on your dogās teeth.
- Portion Control and Frequency:Ā Itās important to pay attention toĀ portion control, especially if youāre feeding wet food exclusively, as it tends to be more calorie-dense than dry kibble. Consult the feeding guide on the label and your vet to determine the appropriate amount based on your dogās weight and activity level. Typically, wet food can be fedĀ two to three times a day, depending on your dogās size and metabolism.
- Dental Care While Feeding Wet Food:Ā One concern with feeding only wet food is theĀ lack of natural teeth cleaningĀ that comes from the chewing action of dry kibble. To counter this, consider supplementing withĀ dental chewsĀ or incorporatingĀ water additivesĀ orĀ enzymatic gelsĀ to maintain oral hygiene.
š” Pro Tip: If youāre switching to wet food due to dental issues, introduce the change gradually over several days to avoid digestive upset. Start by mixing a small amount of wet food with your dogās current food, gradually increasing the amount of wet food each day until theyāre fully transitioned.
Comment 8: āMy dog has sensitive teeth and seems to be losing weight because heās not eating enough. What can I do to help him regain weight without hurting his teeth?ā
Answer: When a dog is losing weight due to sensitive teeth and reluctance to eat, the key is to provide soft, nutrient-dense food thatās easy to chew and packed with calories. Hereās how you can help your dog regain weight safely and comfortably:
- Choose High-Calorie, Soft Food:Ā To help your dog gain weight, opt forĀ high-calorie wet foodsĀ that are gentle on their teeth. Foods likeĀ The Farmerās DogĀ orĀ Merrick Grain-Free Wet FoodĀ are excellent options, as they are soft, nutrient-rich, and provide plenty of calories in smaller portions. These meals are typically made with real meat, which is highly palatable and enticing for dogs with sensitive mouths.
- Add Toppers for Extra Calories:Ā You can boost the caloric content of your dogās food by adding high-calorie toppers such asĀ plain, cooked chicken,Ā pumpkin puree, orĀ salmon oil. These additions not only increase the caloric intake but also add moisture and flavor, making the food more tempting. Just be sure to introduce any new toppers gradually to avoid upsetting their stomach.
- Feed Small, Frequent Meals:Ā If your dog is struggling to eat larger meals due to dental discomfort, try feedingĀ smaller, more frequent mealsĀ throughout the day. This allows your dog to consume more calories over time without the stress of eating a large portion all at once. Offering foodĀ 3-4 times a dayĀ can help spread out their intake and reduce discomfort.
- Warm Up the Food for Better Smell and Taste:Ā Heating your dogās wet food can enhance itsĀ aroma and flavor, which may help stimulate their appetite. Simply microwave the food for a few seconds to warm it up, but make sure itās not too hot before serving. This can be particularly effective if your dog is hesitant to eat due to pain.
- Consult with Your Vet About Appetite Stimulants:Ā In some cases, your vet may recommend anĀ appetite stimulantĀ likeĀ mirtazapineĀ to encourage your dog to eat more. This can be especially helpful if your dog is experiencing significant weight loss. Your vet may also suggest aĀ prescription dietĀ designed for weight gain thatās formulated with higher calorie content.
š” Pro Tip: Monitor your dogās weight regularly by weighing them at home or during vet visits to ensure theyāre gaining weight at a healthy pace. If weight loss continues or if your dog shows signs of pain while eating, consult your vet to rule out any underlying health issues beyond dental problems.
Comment 9: āAre there any specific dental care tips for senior dogs with bad teeth that I should know about?ā
Answer: Senior dogs with bad teeth need a specialized approach to dental care to maintain their oral health without causing further pain or discomfort. Here are some key tips for managing your senior dogās dental care:
- Regular Vet Checkups:Ā One of the most important things you can do for your senior dogās dental health is to scheduleĀ regular veterinary checkups. Senior dogs are more prone to dental diseases likeĀ periodontal disease, and early detection of dental issues can prevent further complications. Your vet can also perform professional cleanings or extractions if necessary.
- Switch to Soft Foods:Ā Senior dogs with bad teeth will often benefit from switching toĀ soft foodsĀ that are easier to chew. Wet food or softened kibble is easier on aging teeth and gums and can help prevent pain during mealtime. Look for wet foods that are specially formulated for senior dogs, such asĀ Hillās Science Diet Adult 7+ WetĀ orĀ Royal Canin Aging 12+.
- Use Enzymatic Toothpaste and Gels:Ā Even if brushing is difficult for your senior dog, you can useĀ enzymatic toothpasteĀ or dental gels to help reduce plaque and tartar buildup. These products work by breaking down bacteria in your dogās mouth, reducing the risk of infection. You can apply these products with a soft toothbrush or your finger to gently rub them on your dogās gums.
- Offer Senior-Friendly Dental Chews:Ā Look for dental chews that are specifically designed forĀ senior dogsĀ with sensitive teeth. These chews are typically softer than standard chews but still help to clean the teeth and massage the gums.Ā Greenies Senior Dental ChewsĀ orĀ Whimzees Dental ChewsĀ for seniors are good options that are easy to chew and still help with dental hygiene.
- Consider Water Additives for Maintenance:Ā If your senior dog doesnāt tolerate brushing or chews,Ā dental water additivesĀ can help keep their mouth clean with minimal effort. These additives are mixed with your dogās drinking water and help fight plaque and bacteria throughout the day. Brands likeĀ OxyfreshĀ orĀ Vetās BestĀ offer gentle formulas that are safe for daily use.
š” Pro Tip: Senior dogs are often more prone to dehydration, so choosing soft, moist foods or adding extra water to their diet can support both their dental and overall health.