How Can I Tell If My Dog Has Gum Disease

One of the more common dental diseases that dogs suffer from is gum disease. Gum disease refers to an infection that attacks the gums and around the teeth. The common symptoms are red patches, a swollen mouth, and bleeding. The infection can spread to the jaws and bones of the dogs, causing pain and loss of appetite.

But before it leads to an emergency situation, it is important to know the signs of gum disease.

4 Ways to Tell Your Dog has Gum Disease

Look at the color of your dog’s teeth.

You can tell your dog has gum disease if his or her teeth are discoloured, or even turning black. Your dog’s gums may also appear red and swollen. This is a sign of inflammation or infection. Look for signs of swelling and redness around the gumline and loose teeth. As soon as you notice these signs, schedule an appointment with your veterinarian. Gum disease is often a silent killer, so it’s important to catch it early.

Check their breath.

If it smells like something other than normal dog breath (which is generally not pleasant but not necessarily noticeable), your dog may have gum disease. The most common sign of gum disease is bad breath. Bad breath can be caused by a number of factors, including bacteria and plaque buildup on your dog’s teeth. If you notice that your dog has unusually foul-smelling breath, it may be time for a trip to the vet.

Take note of your dog’s eating behavior.

Eating less? If your dog is eating less, it could be a sign of gum disease. Some dogs will eat generally until they have to “chew” their food with their back teeth — which isn’t possible if those teeth are damaged. If your dog suddenly stops eating and drinking, or if you notice that he’s having difficulty chewing and swallowing his food, bring him in for an appointment right away. This could lead to malnutrition and a host of other health issues.

Finally, if all else fails, ask your vet!

If you suspect that your dog has gum disease or another oral health issue, make an appointment with your veterinarian. It’s important to have the teeth checked by a professional so that your dog can be properly diagnosed and treated.

It’s Happy Oral Health to Your Dog Day!

Dental hygiene for dogs is just as important as it is for humans. The mouth should be inspected regularly, and your vet can help you to determine if your pet needs a toothbrush or just a little extra love and attention from you!

Our team of professional Exceptional Pets Mesa dog walkers will make sure your dog gets the necessary dental care that he or she needs, and we can help you to make sure your dog’s teeth stay healthy.

Book an appointment today and let us help you care for your furry friend.