Written and reviewed by Dr Jill McMaster BVM&S MBA MRCVS, Veterinary Surgeon and in-house expert at BorrowMyDoggy
Dental disease is a common problem found in our pooches, with the American Veterinary Dental Association, finding that an ast-hounding 80% of dogs have some state of dental disease from when they are 3 years old!
So what can you do to improve your dog’s dental health? Brushing is the best option, but it’s not always practical, so another option you have is to feed your dog a dental diet.
These complete foods are given like any other dry food at meal times, and can reduce plaque build up on existing dental disease. Where they tend to work best is to prevent dental disease, or to prevent problems coming back after veterinary dental work.
What to look for in a dental diet?
- If you are interested in putting your pet on a dental diet, your veterinary practice is the best place to start. They can advise you on the best options available for your pooch.
- Be sure to check ingredients on any new food. If you know there is an ingredient that doesn’t agree with your dog, be sure to avoid it.
- If you are changing diet it’s supaw important to make any changes slowly, over about a week, by mixing a small amount of the new diet in with the old, a little more every day, until you have completely moved over. This allows you to stop or slow down the change if your pooch gets an upset stomach or any other reactions which you should discuss with your vet.
- What is your dog’s current dental health like? If your dog has extensive dental disease, a dental diet may not be suitable, and it likely won’t fix all their dental problems. Instead you should speak to your vet, who should be able to assess your dog’s oral health and advise on treatment and diet.
Here are some dental diets that are currently available in shops and online, for advice on all diets, including veterinary prescription diets, contact your veterinary practice (Prices based on 20kg dog):
Hill's Science Plan Medium Breed Adult Dog Food: Oral Care
Price - £1.21 per day (for a 20kg dog)
What we love -
- States it has clinically proven kibble technology to reduce plaque & tartar build up
- Vitamins and minerals to support skin and coat health, and the immune system
- Money back guarantee
Best for -
- Dogs from 1 year old
- Breeds prone to dental disease
Eukanuba Senior Small & Medium Breed - Lamb & Rice
Price - £0.69 per day (for a 20kg dog)
What we love -
- Specially designed kibble shape that help to support long-term dental cleanliness
- Antioxidants and fatty acids to support the immune system, skin and coat
Best for -
- Dogs over 7 years old
- Sensitive stomachs as it contains highly digestible ingredients
Royal Canin Dental Care
Price - £1.69 per day (for 20kg dog)
What we love -
- Special teeth-scraping texture of the kibble to reduce plaque
- Helps to reduce the formation of tartar
- Subscription service available
Best for -
- Dogs over 1 year old
- Dogs prone to dental disease
This article is for information only, and should never replace any advice, diagnosis or treatment from your veterinary surgeon. Always contact your local vet or out of hours vet without delay if you have any concerns about your dog.
