Did you know that your dog’s stinky breath may be down to more than that pungent wet dog food he just chowed down? If the odor is constant and has been for a while, it’s more likely his teeth.
Dental issues for dogs can lead to more than just bad breath. They can cause serious health issues that, down the line, impact your pup’s heart, liver, and kidneys. So, being alert to that malodorous smell, identifying the cause, and working with your vet to come up with a solution, is what staying on top of your dog’s health is all about. This includes understanding the potential seasonal effects on your dog’s dental health.
The H20 Connection
You may not realize that throughout the year, your dog’s oral health needs will change. Yes, summer dental healthcare for dogs is different from winter dental care for dogs. And that’s because their water consumption changes. So, let’s take a moment to look at why water intake matters for your dog’s teeth.
Just like humans, dogs drink more water when temperatures climb, and this simple action helps wash away not only food particles but also bacteria that can lead to a buildup of plaque and, down the line, a painful gum disease called gingivitis. In severe cases, when dental care has been completely neglected, they may even develop something called chronic ulcerative stomatosis that requires antibiotics, pain relief medications, and professional dental cleaning.
So, keeping their water consumption up and their mouth well-rinsed and hydrated is critical to their health… and your budget. It’s also a heck of a lot easier to do during those hot summer months, when throats get parched. But what do you do when winter hits, indoor air is drier, and your dog is less interested in drinking water and therefore more vulnerable to dry mouth?
Let’s look at dog dental care in cold weather, which includes how to achieve that optimal pH balance through proper hydration. Encouraging your pooch to drink more liquid when temperatures drop can be easier than you think.
- Try warming your dog’s water to make it more palatable.
- Add something tasty, like bone broth, to encourage consumption.
- Place multiple bowls throughout the house to make drinking easier.
- Consider a pet fountain to draw your pooch over to their water bowl.
While your dog’s saliva may be a natural method of adding oral hydration, experts advise that it’s only slightly alkaline and not sufficient to truly offset bacterial growth. In short, it’s no substitute for proper hydration and dental care.
Let’s Talk Seasonal Allergies
If your dog suffers from allergies related to pollen, dust mites, mold, or yeast (to name just a few of the key seasonal contributors), you’ll want to know more about summer dental health for dogs. Because if this is your dog, it’s likely your sole focus during these times has been on alleviating the constant scratching, sniffling, and sneezing rather than checking out their teeth and gums. In fact, you may not ever have connected the dots between their discomfort and seasonal dental health.
Can allergies cause gum inflammation in dogs? Can your dog’s seasonal allergies affect their oral health? Yes, there is a connection.
You see, similar to humans, these types of allergies will cause throat irritation, inflamed gums, and a tingling sensation that can lead to them rubbing their face along the carpet, across your soft furnishings, and excessive paw licking. All behaviors that can result in a secondary infection around their mouth and nose, which will, of course, cause them to continue rubbing, scratching, and irritating their gums. Yes, it becomes a vicious cycle, but while seasonal allergies cannot be cured, they can be managed.
For dogs that are hypersensitive and have extreme reactions when triggered by allergens, it may be time to consult with your veterinarian to explore whether a prescription for antihistamines or an allergy shot might be effective. While some human medications can be given to your dog, checking with your vet first is a must-do to ensure the type and dosage are appropriate for your pooch.
Now, if you’re not keen on taking the medication route, there are a few things you can do to help settle some of the inflammation and thereby, scratching. Such as:
- Regular baths with soothing soaps to remove pollen from your dog’s fur.
- Anti-bacterial sprays or wipes to help remove a variety of allergens from dirty paws.
- Frequent washing of his bedding and soft toys that might house pollen.
- Room air purifiers and vacuum cleaners that use a HEPA filter to remove dust mites and other allergens floating through the air.
The Importance of Routine
Dogs are creatures of habit and thrive on routine. From daily walks to the timing of their meals, establishing an expectation helps keep your furry buddy feeling calm and confident. But beyond the psychological benefits, there can also be physical benefits – particularly when diet and hydration are in play. And with regular hydration comes good oral health.
Now, we all know how easy it is to fall out of routine when summer travel, winter vacations, and even family visits crop up. And that’s why you need to have a pre-emptive approach to keeping your dog’s water consumption on track and their teeth and gums healthy.
Simple steps such as:
- For car or RV journeys, keep fresh, cool water handy and replenish it frequently. Spill-proof bowls are a lifesaver when it comes to vehicle travel and ensure your dog has continual access to plenty of hydration.
- Boost your dog’s seasonal oral health by including something tasty like our Bernie’s Charming Chompers, which improve gut health and help reduce plaque buildup.
- If away from home, consider packing distilled or mineral water. Chemical additives can differ from region to region and put your dog off their fluids or cause upset stomachs.
- Outdoor entertaining? A fountain-style dispenser ensures your pooch’s water bowl never goes dry – even if you get sidetracked.
Bringing It All Together
What does optimal oral health in your dog look like? It looks like bright white teeth, it smells like fresh breath, and it results in sound, healthy organs that support them living a long, full life. It’s also easy to achieve if you take a consistent approach to ensuring your dog stays hydrated, eats healthy, and enjoys treats that do double duty – meaning they taste great while reducing tartar. But by recognizing how changes in seasonal temperatures and disruptions to his routine can impact your dog’s normal water consumption and taking the necessary steps to offset it, you get a head start on building a healthy routine – both at home and away.
