Dogs are prone to dental problems just like humans. In fact, according to the American Veterinary Dental Society, 80% of dogs will have some form of dental disease by the time they are 3 years old. This can lead to a variety of health problems, including heart disease and kidney failure. That’s why it’s important to choose a food that is good for your dog’s teeth. In this blog post, we will discuss the 10 best dog foods for dental issues in 2022! We’ll also provide reviews and top picks for each food.
Purina Beyond High Protein Turkey, Liver & Duck Pate Canned Dog Food – Best Value
Main ingredients:
Turkey, duck, liver
Protein content:
12% min
Fat content:
11% min
Calories:
421 per can
Purina Beyond Wild Prey-Inspired Grain-Free High Protein Turkey, Liver & Duck Pate Recipe Canned Dog Food is the best food for dogs with existing dental issues for the money. The main ingredients are turkey, duck, and liver. The turkey is a good source of protein, and the duck and liver provide essential vitamins and minerals. This food is also grain-free, which is important for dogs with allergies or sensitivities, but may not be suitable for all dogs.
Cons
Grain-free food is not necessary for all dogs
Pros
High in protein
Great for dogs with grain allergies
Nature’s Logic Canine Duck & Salmon Canned Dog Food – Best Overall
Main ingredients:
Salmon, herring meal, chickpeas
Protein content:
11% min
Fat content:
9% min
Calories:
360 per cup
Nature’s Logic Canine Duck & Salmon Feast All Life Stages Grain-Free Canned Dog Food is the best overall food for dogs with existing dental issues. The main ingredients are salmon and herring meal, which are both high in protein and low in fat. The chickpeas provide a source of fiber, and the calories are 360 per cup. This food is also grain-free, which is important for dogs with allergies or sensitivities. The only downside of this food is the price.
Cons
Expensive
Pros
Grain-free
High in protein
Low in fat
Taste of the Wild Angus Beef Recipe LID Dry Dog Food – Best for Puppies
Main ingredients:
Beef, lentils, chicken fat
Protein content:
27%
Fat content:
15%
Calories:
412 per cup
Taste of the Wild Angus Beef Recipe Limited Ingredient Dry Dog Food is a great food for dogs with existing dental issues or to prevent issues from developing in puppies as they grow. The main ingredients are beef, lentils, and chicken fat, but the limited ingredient food avoids common allergens that you may not know your puppy has. Beef is a good source of protein, and salmon oil in the food provides DHA which helps your puppy’s brain development. The food is also grain-free, but contains lentils which may be linked to heart conditions in dogs, although studies are still ongoing.
Cons
Expensive
Contains lentils
Pros
Contains DHA
High in protein
Limited ingredient
Hill’s Science Diet Adult Oral Care Dry Dog Food – Premium Choice
Main ingredients:
Chicken, pork meal, brown rice
Protein content:
23% min
Fat content:
11% min
Calories:
342 per cup
Hill’s Science Diet Adult Oral Care Dry Dog Food is a great food for dogs with existing dental issues. The main ingredients are chicken, pork meal, and brown rice. The chicken is a good source of protein, and the pork meal provides essential vitamins and minerals. Brown rice is a complex carbohydrate that helps to maintain energy levels. This food also contains added fiber to help reduce plaque and tartar buildup. The downside is that this food is pricey.
ACANA Singles + Wholesome Grains Lamb & Pumpkin Recipe Grain-Free Dry Dog Food is a great food for dogs with existing dental issues. The main ingredients are lamb, pumpkin, and oat groats. The lamb is a good source of protein, and the pumpkin provides essential vitamins and minerals. This food contains wholesome grains to help your dog maintain a well-rounded diet. The only downside is the price.
Cons
Expensive
Pros
High in protein
Vet-recommended
Contains wholesome grains
Nutro Ultra Small Breed Adult Dry Dog Food
Main ingredients:
Chicken, salmon meal, menhaden fish meal
Protein content:
34%
Fat content:
17%
Calories:
386 per cup
Nutro Ultra Grain Free Small Breed Formula Dry Dog Food is a great food for dogs with existing dental issues. The main ingredients are chicken, salmon meal, and menhaden fish meal. The chicken is a good source of protein, and the salmon and menhaden fish meals provide essential vitamins and minerals, as well as DHA and omega fatty acids for brain, skin, and coat health. This food is high in protein but low in calories, so it’s great for helping your small breed pup maintain a healthy weight. The downside is the price and that it’s not suitable for large breed dogs.
Cons
Expensive
Not suitable for large breeds
Pros
High in protein
Low in calories
High in omega fatty acids
Blue Buffalo Wilderness High Protein Grain Free, Natural Adult Dry Dog Food
Main ingredients:
Chicken, turkey meal, duck meal
Protein content:
34%
Fat content:
16%
Calories:
421 per cup
Blue Buffalo Wilderness High Protein Grain Free, Natural Adult Dry Dog Food is a great food for dogs with existing dental issues. The main ingredients are chicken, turkey meal, and duck meal. Chicken is a good source of protein, and this is a high protein food, although some dogs may be allergic to chicken. This food is also grain-free, which is important for dogs with grain allergies or sensitivities, but a grain-free diet is not necessary for all dogs so be sure to speak with your vet first. But, the food is crunchy which aids in dental health for dogs.
Cons
Expensive
Some dogs may be allergic to chicken
Pros
Grain-free
High in protein
Crunchy texture to clean teeth
American Journey Active Life Beef & Garden Vegetables Canned Dog Food
Main ingredients:
Beef, sweet potatoes, peas
Protein content:
12%
Fat content:
11%
Calories:
421 per can
American Journey Active Life Formula Beef & Garden Vegetables Recipe Canned Dog Food is a great food for dogs with existing dental issues and dogs that may have an allergy to other common protein sources such as chicken. The main ingredients are beef, sweet potatoes, and peas. Beef is a good source of protein, and the sweet potatoes and peas provide essential vitamins and minerals, although scientists are still investigating a potential link between peas and heart disease in dogs. But it’s more affordable than other options on the list and the soft food is great for dogs that have a hard time eating dry kibble.
Cons
Contains peas which have been linked to heart disease concerns
Pros
Affordable
Great for dogs with chicken allergies
Vegetables are a great nutrient source
Iams ProActive Health Classic Ground with Chicken & Rice Wet Dog Food
Main ingredients:
Chicken, rice, peas
Protein content:
12%
Fat content:
11%
Calories:
421 per can
Iams ProActive Health Classic Ground with Chicken & Whole Grain Rice Adult Wet Dog Food is a great food for dogs with existing dental issues. The main ingredients are chicken, rice, and peas. This is a wet food, so it’s great for senior dogs or dogs that have trouble eating dry food. It’s also affordable, but like other foods, you may wish to dry a different flavor if your dog has a chicken allergy.
Cons
Contains chicken and peas
Pros
High in protein
Great for dogs that can’t eat hard food
Rachael Ray Nutrish Natural Dry Dog Food
Main ingredients:
Chicken, chicken meal, soybean meal
Protein content:
26%
Fat content:
16%
Calories:
338 per cup
Rachael Ray Nutrish Natural Dry Dog Food is a great food for dogs with existing dental issues. The main ingredients are chicken, brown rice, and peas. Chicken is a good source of protein, although it’s not a good choice if your dog has a chicken allergy. This food is also low in calories so it’s great for helping your dog maintain a healthy weight, and high in fiber which helps to support a healthy digestive system. It’s also affordable, although this is another food that contains peas.
Cons
Uses fillers
Contains peas
Pros
High in protein
High in fiber
Budget-friendly
Types of Dental Problems in Dogs
Dental problems are common in dogs, and they can range from mild to severe.
Gum Disease
Gum disease is an infection of the gums that can cause tooth loss in your dog. Early signs of gum disease include red, inflamed gums.
Plaque Buildup
The most common type of dental problem is plaque buildup, which can lead to tartar formation and gum disease. Plaque is a sticky film of bacteria that forms on teeth, and it can harden into tartar if it’s not removed.
Tooth Loss
Tooth loss is a serious problem that can occur if plaque and tartar are not removed from your dog’s teeth. Tooth loss can also be caused by trauma or infection.
Dental problems are common in dogs, but there are many things you can do to prevent them.
Abscesses
An abscess is a pocket of pus that can form on your dog’s gums or teeth. Abscesses are usually caused by an infection, and they can be very painful for your dog.
Tooth Decay
Tooth decay is another type of dental problem that can occur in dogs. It is caused by a build-up of plaque and tartar on the teeth, which leads to the erosion of tooth enamel. Bad Breath
Bad breath is often an early sign of dental problems in dogs. If your dog has bad breath, it’s important to take them to the vet so they can be checked for dental problems.
Mouth Tumors
Mouth tumors are another type of dental problem that can occur in dogs. Mouth tumors are usually benign, but they can be cancerous.
Preventing Common Dental Issues in Dogs
Dental disease is one of the most common health problems in dogs, and it can lead to a number of other serious health issues. The good news is that there are a number of things you can do to help prevent dental disease in your dog.
Choose a food that is formulated for dental health. Many of the foods on this list contain ingredients that help reduce plaque and tartar buildup, and they also tend to be very high in protein, which helps keep teeth clean.
You should also brush your dog’s teeth regularly with a pet-safe toothpaste. This will help remove plaque and tartar, and it will also help freshen their breath. Finally, make sure to take your dog to the vet for regular checkups, and have their teeth cleaned professionally every year or two.
Food that Helps Prevent Dental Issues
In addition to foods for dogs with existing dental issues, there are also foods that help prevent dental problems. These foods typically contain ingredients that help reduce plaque and tartar buildup.
Ingredients to Look for in a Food That Helps Prevent Dental Issues
When choosing a food to help prevent dental problems, there are a few key ingredients to look for. First, choose a food that is high in protein. Protein is essential for strong teeth and gums. Second, choose a food that contains added fiber. Fiber helps to reduce plaque and tartar buildup. Finally, choose a food that is high in antioxidants. Antioxidants help to reduce inflammation and support oral health.
Fiber – helps reduce plaque and tartar buildup
Protein – helps keep teeth strong
Vitamins C and E – antioxidants that help protect against gum disease
Omega-fatty acids – help reduce inflammation
Which Breeds Are More Prone to Dental Issues?
While all dogs can benefit from a food that helps prevent dental problems, some breeds are more prone to dental issues than others. Breeds that are more prone to dental problems include:
Poodles
Labradors
Bulldogs
Boxers
Yorkshire Terriers
If you have one of these breeds, it’s especially important to choose a food that will help reduce plaque and tartar buildup. Fortunately, there are many great options available.
Signs of Dental Problems in Dogs
The most obvious sign of dental problems in dogs is bad breath. If your dog has bad breath, it’s a good idea to take a look at his teeth and gums. You may also see a yellow or brownish buildup on your dog’s teeth. This is called plaque, and it’s the first stage of dental disease.
If plaque isn’t removed, it will eventually harden into tartar. Tartar is much harder to remove, and it can cause gum inflammation and bleeding. If you see tartar on your dog’s teeth, it’s important to take him to the vet so he can be checked for dental disease.
Other signs of dental problems in dogs include:
Drooling
Pawing at the mouth
Rubbing the face
Loss of appetite
Weight loss
If you notice any of these signs, it’s important to take your dog to the vet so he can be checked for dental disease.
What Is the Best Way to Prevent Dental Problems in Dogs?
The best way to prevent dental problems in dogs is to brush their teeth on a regular basis. You should also take your dog to the vet for regular checkups and cleanings. In addition, feeding your dog a food that helps prevent plaque and tartar buildup can also be helpful.
Does Pet Insurance Cover Dental Care?
Most pet insurance policies will cover at least a portion of the cost of dental care. However, it’s important to read the fine print of your policy to be sure. Some policies have exclusions or limitations on what they will cover.
Do Dogs Get Dental Surgery?
Dental surgery is sometimes necessary for dogs with advanced dental disease. The most common type of dental surgery is a tooth extraction. This is typically done when the tooth is too damaged to be saved. Other types of dental surgery include root canals and gum surgery.
Do Dogs Need Dental Cleanings?
Yes, dogs do need dental cleanings. Just like humans, their teeth can build up plaque and tartar over time. If this isn’t removed, it can lead to gum disease and other serious problems. Dental cleanings are typically done under anesthesia, so your dog will be asleep during the procedure.
How Do I Brush My Dog’s Teeth?
Brushing your dog’s teeth may seem daunting, but it’s actually fairly simple. You’ll need to purchase a dog-specific toothbrush and toothpaste. You can find these at most pet stores. To brush your dog’s teeth, simply put some toothpaste on the brush and gently brush their teeth in a circular motion. Be sure to get all of their back teeth as well.
Final Thoughts
Dental problems are common in dogs, but there are many great foods available that can help reduce plaque and tartar buildup. If you have a dog with dental problems, be sure to talk to your vet about the best food for your pet. Brushing your dog’s teeth on a regular basis is the best way to prevent dental problems. However, if your dog does have dental problems, there are many great foods available that can help reduce plaque and tartar buildup.
Picking the right food for your dog can be tough, but it’s important to choose a food that meets all of their nutritional needs. The good news is that there are many great options available. In addition to feeding your dog a healthy diet, brushing their teeth regularly, and taking them to the vet for regular checkups and cleanings can help make sure your pet’s smile stays bright and healthy for years to come.
Remember, the best way to prevent dental problems is to start early. So, if you’re looking for a food that will help keep your dog’s teeth healthy, make sure to choose one of the options on this list. Your dog will thank you for it!
