When it comes to your dog’s health, dental care is just as essential as nutrition, exercise, and training. Yet, dental disease is one of the most overlooked health issues in dogs - by the age of three, over 80% of dogs already show signs of periodontal disease (Wiggs RB, Lobprise HB. Periodontology. In: Veterinary Dentistry: Principles and Practice. Philadelphia: Lippencott-Raven; 1997:186-231.) That’s not just a problem for fresh breath—poor oral hygiene can lead to serious infections, difficulty eating, and even impact your dog’s heart and kidneys.

Smaller dog breeds, like Poodles, Yorkshire Terriers, Chihuahuas, and Dachshunds, as well as brachycephalic (short-faced) breeds like Boxers, Bulldogs, French Bulldogs, and Shih Tzus, are more prone to dental disease. (Dog Breeds and Dental Disease) 

At Devil Dog Pet Co., we believe in extreme ownership, and that means taking responsibility for your dog’s well-being - including their dental health. Too often, dog owners don’t think about their dog’s teeth until there’s a painful problem - but just like in humans, prevention is key.

Here’s why prioritizing your dog’s dental health matters, and we’ve included some helpful dog wellness tips to keep their teeth strong, clean, and pain-free.

1. Prevent health issues before they start

You might not realize it, but your dog’s oral health directly affects their overall health. Plaque buildup turns into tartar, which leads to gum disease, painful infections, and inflammation that can spread throughout the body.

"Bad oral health is bad health... it's directly correlated to disease." – John, Devil Dog Pet Co.

Did you know?

• Bacteria from dental infections can enter the bloodstream and contribute to heart disease, kidney damage, and systemic inflammation.
• According to the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA), advanced gum disease can have serious long-term effects on a dog’s overall health and well-being.
• Periodontal disease affects 9 out of 10 dogs at some point in their life.

How to prevent health issues:

• Brush your dog’s teeth regularly with a pet-safe toothbrush and toothpaste. While brushing is ideal, many dogs can maintain good dental health with the right chews.
• Use natural dog chews like bully sticks, himalayan yak chews, and elk antlers chews for dogs to help scrape plaque naturally.
• Schedule professional vet cleanings to catch issues early.
  

2. Ensure your pup can eat pain-free

Imagine trying to eat with a severe toothache - it wouldn’t be enjoyable, right? The same goes for your dog.

Untreated dental disease can lead to painful inflammation, broken teeth that make chewing difficult, and malnutrition when eating becomes uncomfortable. Pain and discomfort can also lead to your pup being grumpy and snappy.

How to prevent it:

• Watch for signs of discomfort — drooling, reluctance to eat, or pawing at the mouth.
• Provide dog chew options that gently scrape away plaque. To find the right chews for your dog, see our blog post “Choosing the right dog chew size for your pup.”
• Avoid synthetic or artificial chews that can be too hard and risk breaking teeth.
  

Best dog chews for teeth:

• Elk antler chews – Long-lasting and help clean teeth naturally.
• Yak chews – A tough, natural chew that helps clean teeth and keeps dogs engaged.
• Bully sticks – Safe, digestible, and great for scraping tartar.
• Himalayan dog chew, a long-lasting and natural dental treat – Hard enough to clean teeth but soft enough to be safe.

3. Enjoy fresher breath and improves hygiene

Let’s be honest—bad dog breath can be unbearable (nobody likes stinky kisses). But beyond being unpleasant, it’s often a warning sign of underlying dental disease. Nearly half (47.7%) of dog owners have reported their pets experiencing halitosis (bad breath) to some degree, and 37.3% have noticed the presence of dental calculus.

Regular dog teeth cleaning helps eliminate odor-causing bacteria and prevents infection. Dog chews for dental health act as natural toothbrushes by removing plaque while satisfying your dog’s chewing instinct.

• How to freshen your dog’s breath naturally:
• Brush their teeth with dog-friendly toothpaste.
• Offer chews that fight bad breath by preventing plaque buildup - like antler chews.
• Focus on a healthy diet — cheap kibble and sugary treats can contribute to dental problems.

A clean mouth = fresher dog breath and happier cuddles!

4. Prevent expensive vet bills

Dental issues can quickly turn into costly medical problems if left untreated. To prevent costly vet bills, start dog teeth cleaning and overall dental care early, use dog chews dental options daily, and schedule regular checkups to catch problems before they escalate.

Cost comparison:

• Preventative care (brushing + chews): $5 - $30/month
• Vet dental cleaning: $300 - $700 per visit
• Tooth extraction due to neglect: $1,000+ per tooth
  

Wouldn’t you rather spend a little now on prevention instead of thousands on avoidable health issues?

"Chews are one huge way that dogs can maintain their teeth for a very long time." – John, Devil Dog Pet Co.

5. Strengthen your relationship with your dog

"Your dog’s dental care is another way to show them love." – Devil Dog Pet Co

Your dog may not love having their teeth brushed at first, but making it a positive experience can strengthen your bond.

How to make dental care a bonding experience:

• Use gentle, positive reinforcement (treats, praise, belly rubs).
• Let them chew after brushing — reward them with natural dog chews!
• Make it a daily habit — dogs thrive on routine!

Daily dog health tips for a healthy smile:

• Use safe & effective dental dog chews – Devil Dog Pet Co.’s naturally sourced elk antlers, yak chews, and bully sticks help remove plaque while keeping your pup entertained.
• Avoid harmful toys – Skip tennis balls; they contain abrasive materials that wear down teeth over time.
• Brush if possible – Even if it’s just once a week, it makes a difference!
• Schedule vet check-ups – Some dogs may need professional dental cleanings for deeper plaque removal.
  

Take action today: keep your dog’s teeth healthy with plaque-fighting chews

Dental healthcare is another part of responsible dog ownership. One in every eight dogs (12.5%) suffers from dental disease each year. Whether your pup is a young chewer or a senior dog needing extra care, the right dog chews and daily habits make all the difference.