Training isn’t just about your dog learning basic commands and obedience, their health is equally as important to having a Perfect Dog For Life. While taking your dog to the vet for regular check-ups is key, there are many things owners can do themselves, at home, to help ensure you are on top of your dog’s health.

For instance, have you looked in your dog’s mouth lately? Did you know that puppies only have 28 teeth, while adult dogs have 42 teeth?

By age 3, 80% of dogs will have some form of dental disease. Without proper care that dental disease can not only affect their eating habits and cause chronic pain due to eroded gums and tooth and bone loss, but it can also lead to more serious health conditions like being at a higher risk for heart, kidney, and liver disease.

A part of good health is making sure to check your dog’s mouth for signs of dental disease. Has your dog been experiencing bad breath lately? Do they have red, bleeding or swollen gums? Are their tooth roots exposed or do they resist having their mouth handled? Have they lost weight, have trouble eating or perhaps they seem to be chewing on only one side of their mouth? If you answered yes to any of these questions, your dog may have the start of dental disease.

To determine if your pet does have dental disease or to learn about prevention, you should always talk with your veterinarian, and have them examine your dog’s mouth to determine if treatments are needed or if you can work together to develop a healthy in-home prevention and care plan.

A simple change in diet, such as a quality dental diet food that scrubs the teeth while they chew can improve dental health. Selecting chew toys like rubber balls or rubber toys that dog treats can be hidden inside so your dog has to chew them to get out the treat. And, just like humans, brushing your dog’s teeth daily is a great way to promote oral health. This can also be a part of their dog training, to have their mouth handled while staying in their sit command. Most importantly, though, don’t skip trips to the vet for the regular check-ups and cleanings.

Providing good oral hygiene is vital and can add 2 – 4 years to your Perfect Dog For Life

If you have any questions about choosing your Perfect Dog For Life, or would like more information about our private dog training, e-collar training, K9 distraction training or puppy training please visit us at www.perfectdogforlife.com.

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