Dental care and ageing dogs
Teeth are easy to forget until something goes wrong. In older dogs, dental problems are common, and they can affect comfort, eating and general wellbeing. Good news: regular care makes a difference.
Why teeth matter more with age
Plaque builds up on teeth over time. If it is not removed, it hardens into tartar. Gums can become inflamed, and in more serious cases teeth can loosen. Vets often describe dental disease as one of the most common problems seen in adult and older dogs, and small breeds are commonly discussed as more prone to it.
Dental pain is easy to miss. Dogs rarely cry about it. Instead they may eat differently, or simply seem a little flat.
Signs to look for
Owners commonly notice:
- Bad breath that is more than “dog breath”.
- Yellow or brown build-up on teeth.
- Red, swollen or bleeding gums.
- Dropping food, or chewing on one side.
- Pawing at the mouth.
- Reluctance to eat hard food or play with chew toys.
- Drooling more than usual.
- A broken or loose tooth.
If you see any of these, book a vet visit. A vet can look inside the mouth and advise on next steps, which may include a professional clean under anaesthetic.
Brushing: the gold standard
Daily brushing is widely regarded as the most effective home care. It sounds ambitious, but many dogs learn to accept it.
- Use a dog toothpaste. Human toothpaste is not suitable, as it can contain ingredients that are harmful to dogs.
- Start slowly. Let your dog lick the paste from your finger.
- Touch the teeth and gums gently for a few seconds.
- Move to a soft brush or finger brush.
- Brush the outer surfaces, where most plaque builds up.
- Keep sessions short and calm, and give praise.
Even a few times a week is better than nothing.
Other options
If brushing is not possible, some products may help, though most are not as effective:
- Dental chews. Some are designed to reduce plaque. Look for products with a recognised approval, and count the calories.
- Dental diets. Special kibble with a texture designed to clean teeth.
- Water additives and gels. Some owners use them as an extra.
Avoid very hard items such as bones, antlers or hard nylon, which can break teeth. If you cannot dent it with a fingernail, it may be too hard for your dog’s teeth.
Professional cleaning
Many vets recommend regular dental checks, and cleaning when needed. For older dogs, anaesthesia carries more consideration. Your vet will usually discuss pre-anaesthetic checks and weigh benefits and risks for your dog. Do not skip a needed clean from fear alone. Talk it through with your vet.
Eating comfortably
If your dog has sore teeth:
- Try softened kibble or wet food while waiting for the vet.
- Offer smaller, softer pieces.
- Avoid hard treats.
Weight loss is a sign to take seriously. See our guide on senior dog nutrition for more on feeding.
Teeth and the rest of the body
Vets often mention that oral health connects with general health, so keeping the mouth comfortable is part of overall care. We will not make bigger claims than that. The simple message is that a healthy mouth makes eating easier and life more comfortable.
Where supplements fit
A daily supplement is not a substitute for brushing or dental care. PAWER Daily is a complementary feed for dogs, not a dental product and not a medicine, and it does not treat or prevent any disease. If you are considering a daily routine for your dog’s everyday health and energy, dental checks come first, since pain in the mouth can affect appetite and mood.
Build a dental routine
- Check your dog’s mouth monthly. Lift the lips and look at gums and teeth.
- Brush as often as your dog allows.
- Choose safe chews, and count calories.
- Book a dental check at your yearly or six monthly vet visit.
- Act early when you notice changes.
Small, steady habits protect your dog’s comfort. And if your dog hates the brush, start again with patience. Many dogs get used to it over a few weeks.
What to do next
If you are thinking about adding a daily routine for your dog’s everyday health and energy, here is how to see what PAWER is and what it is not. It is a complementary feed for dogs, not a medicine, and your vet comes first if your dog takes medication or has a condition.
General information for pet owners. Not veterinary advice.