03 Jul What is the Best Dog Food for Dental Health?
There are many things to keep in mind when you’re a pet owner. Walking down the pet aisle can be overwhelming with so many options for chew toys, leashes, beds and more. We want to be certain that we are making the right choice for our pets, but what does that mean? Choosing food that promotes dental health is a decision you don’t want to leave to chance. When it comes to choosing the best dog food for dental health, our team at Animal Dental Care and Oral Surgery in Loveland has done the research so you don’t have to!
Isn’t dry food enough?
Dogs are prone to having various dental problems such as: plaque, gingivitis, tooth decay, and more. They also have the overriding survival instinct to eat regardless of their potential oral discomfort. Poor oral hygiene creates a buildup of harmful bacteria that can enter your pup’s bloodstream and cause kidney, liver, or heart disease.
A commonly accepted myth is that kibble is beneficial for dogs’ teeth—as they chew, the dry kibble helps scrape off plaque from the gum lines. However, although some crunchy kibble can aid in scraping plaque from the teeth, it can be ineffective below the gumline, where plaque and tartar cause the most harm. When choosing between wet or dry food, know that it is okay to choose dry food, but don’t choose it on the assumption that it is better for your dog’s teeth. Choosing high-quality dog food for dental health, in addition to regular brushing, is how you can ensure the gold standard when it comes to dental care for your dog.
What nutrients should you look for?
Be sure to read the ingredients carefully, as some dog foods can contain sugar and carbohydrates, along with other additives that do not promote oral health. A nutritious, high-quality diet affects oral health by maintaining the tissue’s integrity, metabolizing plaque and bacteria, stimulating saliva flow, and coming into direct contact with the teeth and gums. Make sure to look for foods containing the following, as well as the Veterinary Oral Health Council (VOHC) seal of approval:
- Fatty acids—Not only are fatty acids beneficial for joints, they can also help manage periodontal inflammation.
- Antioxidants—Antioxidants are important to your dog’s dental health as they promote healthy periodontal tissues.
- Probiotics—Probiotics allow healthy bacteria to form in the mouth which will balance out harmful bacteria that cause inflammation and lead to periodontal disease.
Contact us today!
Implementing a diet that promotes dental health as well as regular brushing and appropriate chew toys will help your pet have a great smile as well as live a longer and healthier life. If you have any questions or concerns about the best dog food for dental health, call Animal Dental Care and Oral Surgery in Loveland at (970) 614-4307 or contact us online today.
Image by: mattycoulton from Pixaby (4/2020)