Ever wondered how to keep your dog’s teeth clean and pain-free? Dr Innis Cloete, from Kingsway Veterinary Centre, shared expert advice with Bec and Asa, diving into all things doggy dental. Here’s what every pet owner should know.

Why Your Dog’s Dental Health Matters

We all love that puppy grin with sparkling white teeth. But over time, diet and domestication take a toll.

“Dogs don’t chew enough to keep plaque at bay,” explained Dr Cloete. “It builds up and hardens like concrete.”

This hard plaque traps bacteria, leading to gum infections, pain, and eventually, tooth loss.

But My Dog Isn’t Complaining…

Dogs are tough when it comes to dental pain.

“You can have dogs with severely infected mouths showing almost no signs,” said Dr Cloete. “Sometimes all owners notice is bad breath.”

In fact, many pet owners only realise something was wrong after treatment.

“99.9% come back saying, ‘It’s amazing the difference!’” he added.

How to Check Your Dog’s Teeth at Home

Good dental care starts at home, and it’s not complicated.

“Every pet owner should be able to lift their dog’s lips and check their teeth,” said Dr Cloete.

Start young, at around 12 weeks, so they get used to it. Look for signs like tartar buildup, broken teeth, or inflamed gums.

Check once a week, think of it as a mini health inspection.

What About Vet Visits?

You don’t need to wait for a problem. Dr Cloete recommends regular vet check-ups.

“At our clinic, we offer free dental checks every six months,” he said.

These visits help spot early signs of decay, even if your dog seems fine.

Daily Habits That Help

While brushing is ideal, there are other ways to protect your dog’s teeth.

“There are chews, special kibble, and even dog mouthwash,” said Dr Cloete.

He recommends hard kibble and daily dental chews. Some foods even break down plaque as your dog eats.

“The key is to be proactive,” he added. “There’s a lot you can do at home to avoid invasive treatments.”

From brushing to check-ups and the right food, a little effort now can save your dog from pain, and you from big vet bills.

Listen to the full conversation below.