I started using Purina Dentalife Dog Chews last year after my Amazon Fresh account recommended them during a routine shopping visit. As an evidence-based pro-veterinarian pet journalist, I don’t purchase or recommend dog products unless they have some legitimate science to back up their marketing claims.
See, I’m tired of being sold to. I know you are, too. I understand the conflict here, as I’m using this blog post to promote a product that I wholeheartedly believe in. Hear me out on this one.
Purina Dentalife caught my attention because of the price. I have big (ok, GIANT) dogs that can put away a dental chew like nobody’s business. Affordability matters and Dentalife is very reasonably priced.
YES! I will not purchase any oral care product for my dogs unless the VOHC approves it.
The Veterinary Oral Health Council (VOHC) is an organization that evaluates the dental health benefits of pet products, particularly dental treats, chews, and oral hygiene products like toothpaste and mouth rinses.
It was founded to help pet owners identify products that are effective in reducing the accumulation of dental plaque and tartar in dogs and cats. Products that meet the VOHC’s standards for efficacy in reducing plaque and tartar buildup receive the VOHC Seal of Acceptance.
This seal serves as an indication to pet owners that the product has undergone rigorous testing and has been shown to contribute to good oral health in pets when used as directed.
Do Dogs Like Purina Dentalife Chews?
My dogs love them and will jump through hoops to get their daily dental chew from me.
To be fair, my dogs will also eat bunny poop. So I find their tastes to be questionable!
Knowing this, I turned to Amazon to check out some reviews on Dentalife, to see if other pet owners had the same experience.
Here are a few quotes from Amazon & Chewy Reviews:
“My dog loves these things. If she doesn’t chew on these daily her breath is unbearable! Nice size package for the money.”
“They seem to help with his tartar buildup and they both seem to love them they run right over to the cupboard where I have them.”
“Our dogs run straight to the counter for their DentalLife sticks as soon as they’re done eating breakfast.”
Purina Dentalife Dog Chews
These VOHC-approved dental chews have been clinically proven to reduce tartar buildup by 57%.
The VOHC seal of approval is a green flag for these chews, as that seal can only be obtained by companies that prove their product with rigorous trials.
In my own experience, yes, they do work. I was pleasantly surprised that even my gunky mouth dog (we all have THAT dog, am I right?) had clean teeth after just a few days of chewing on these.
The chewy texture scrapes their teeth as they bite into it. This helps to remove slime, buildup, and gunk around the gumline including damaging and unsightly tartar.
Like most pet owners, I’m not perfect. The truth is, I don’t always get around to brushing my dog’s teeth every single day (like we are supposed to).
I can say from personal experience that these chews not only help my dogs have fresh breath, but they work pretty well to remove gunk from their teeth and keep their mouths clean.
Of course, if your dog has serious dental problems, lots of build-up, and bad teeth, I recommend starting with a sedated cleaning with your veterinarian. No dental chew on the market is going to help that situation! However, these are phenomenal for maintaining good oral health once established.
Are Purina Dentalife Safe to Feed Dogs?
Purina Dentalife dog chews are made in the U.S.A. with carefully sourced ingredients. The proprietary shape and texture are effective at removing tartar from a dog’s teeth, and the chews are digestible (so unlike rawhide and bully sticks, you don’t have to worry about obstructions).
Unfortunately, Great Danes, like many larger dog breeds, have shorter lifespans compared to smaller breeds. In this blog, we’re going to explore the key factors that can contribute to helping your Great Dane live longer and have a healthier and more fulfilling life.
From nutrition and exercise to healthcare and lifestyle choices, we’ll delve into the strategies and insights that can make a meaningful difference in prolonging your Great Dane’s life and ensuring you have many more years of joy and companionship together.
How to Make a Great Dane Live Longer
Why Do Great Danes Have Short Life Spans?
Before we can understand how to help our Great Dane dogs live longer, healthier lives we have to understand why Great Danes have short life spans in the first place.
There are 6 main reasons that Danes lives tend to be cut short:
Orthopedic issues, including hip dysplasia
Being overweight
Bloat
Heart Disease (DCM)
Cancer
Genetics
I placed genetics last on the list, because every single reason in the list before it can also be caused by genetics. That’s a big one, and speaks to the reasons why choosing an ethical breeder is so important.
The good news here is that there are many things you can do to extend your Great Danes lifespan!
Observations about Great Danes that Live a Long Time
A quick glance around social media and at dog shows, there are a few key things seen among Great Danes who live long, healthy lives.
When we see an older (8 years +) Great Dane that is still going strong, we most often see some combination of the following:
A dog with good genetics, from proven pedigrees
Excellent body condition score; not overweight (this is really important)
Sound, stable temperament, free of fear, stress, and aggression
Excellent structure, feet, and angulation (which is genetic but also can be related to early puppy nutrition)
Trimmed nails & clean teeth
Well tempered dogs that received training and enrichment throughout life
Pet parents who trust their veterinarian, keep their dog active, and feed an appropriate diet
Genetics play a huge role in temperament, overall structure, cancer risk, bloat risk, and heart disease. Of course, not all Great Danes are given exceptional genetics. Knowing that, there are still things that can be done to help your Great Dane live longer!
Great Dane puppies should be fed a well-researched large or giant breed puppy food from a company who employs veterinary nutritionists, until age 2. This is the most current, science-backed recommendation available, which promotes proper bone growth, joint development, and structure.
If you aren’t sure what brands or formulas to choose, our popular Great Dane Puppy Food post will get you started.
For adult dogs over the age of 2, continue onto a grain-inclusive adult formula that contains a meat meal, and add balanced canned or fresh toppers. The addition of carefully selected wet foods can decrease the risk of bloat! If the toppers are unbalanced, do not allow them to exceed more than 10% of the daily intake of food.
Here is our list of Great Dane foods that promote health, wellness, and longevity. These brands are commonly fed by veterinarians and to the top show and sport dogs, for a reason:
Check out THE GIANT DOG FOOD PROJECT to compare brands and values.
Heart Disease in Great Danes
DCM (Dilated Cardiomyopathy), AKA Heart Disease or congestive heart failure is one of the top reasons why Great Danes don’t live long. Many Danes with DCM will show very little signs and may suddenly collapse one day, or die while undergoing surgery.
This horrible disease is primarily genetic. It is passed down through the pedigree.
When purchasing a puppy from a breeder, verify that both parents received OFA heart echocardiograms. The results of those tests will be available at www.ofa.org and if it isn’t? Run. Your breeder is unethical and may be passing heart disease onto the puppies.
DCM can also be caused by unbalanced dog food. This is commonly a problem with kibbles that contain a lot of peas, lentils, potatoes, chickpeas, and garbanzo beans, as well as any diet that is not correctly formulated in some way.
Because Great Danes are already genetically prone to DCM, feeding a low-quality (commonly grain-free) diet effectively increases their risk of dying suddenly from heart disease.
Great Danes should have a defined waist and may even show a few ribs. They should be graceful, powerful, and athletic. Not stocky, droopy, slow, or heavy.
Excess weight on your Great Dane increases their risk of joint disorders and pain, heart disease, diabetes, and complications during anesthesia and surgery. An overweight dog that experiences a health emergency (such as bloat) is less likely to survive, too.
Talk to your veterinarian about helping your dog lose weight and gain muscle!
Bloat (also known as GDV or Gastric dilatation and volvulus, aka ‘bloat and torsion’) is an emergency that will affect 1-in-4 Great Danes on average. When bloat occurs, the stomach fills up with gas, fluid, or air and then may twist over itself (torsion). Torsion is both painful and deadly.
Fixing this requires expensive emergency surgical treatment and many dogs (especially those with heart disease, obesity, blood clotting disorders, or other serious health issues) do not make it out alive.
Don’t let these statistics scare you, however! There are things you can do to reduce the risk of bloat and torsion so that your Great Dane can live longer.
FACT: Studies have shown that moderate exercise after meals might decrease the risk of bloat by as much as 50%! This goes against everything we’ve been taught. Read more HERE.
Bloat is, as most things, primarily genetic. When choosing a breeder, verify that there is no history of bloat, poor gut health, or bad temperaments in the last several generations.
Consider a gastropexy; this life-saving and simple procedure results in better outcomes for Danes that bloat.
Feed a quality kibble that contains meat meal, and offer 2-3 small meals each day topped with some kind of balanced canned, fresh, or raw food. Encourage slow, stress free eating.
Orthopedic Disorders in Great Danes
Another reason why Great Danes have short lifespans is because they suffer, unfortunately, from orthopedic disorders.
Nutrition, especially in puppies, plays a huge role here but so do genetics and exercise.
Great Danes nails should be trimmed at least twice each month. We recommend a Dremel tool. Overgrown nails lead to pain and joint damage.
Wobblers disease is an unfortunately common disorder in Great Danes that leads to painful and debilitating mobility issues. Read more about wobblers HERE.
IMGD, hip dysplasia, flat feet, and poor overall conformation also have genetic roots that must be addressed by thoughtful, careful breeding practices as well as appropriate movement and strength building.
For dogs with structural and orthopedic issues, working with a canine physical therapist and a veterinarian is a must.
Do not purchase puppies from breeders who are breeding dogs that don’t meet the written structural standard for Great Danes. These breeders are genetically perpetuating structural problems that debilitate Great Danes and shorten their life span.
Cancer in Great Danes
Unfortunately, Great Danes are susceptible to certain types of cancer, including osteosarcoma.
Osteosarcoma is a bone cancer that often appears suddenly and often requires amputation and treatment or euthanasia.
There are many theories about what causes cancer in dogs (such as dog food or vaccines), however, these theories have never been proven or founded.
It is understood, however, that cancer is primarily a genetic disorder.
Some dogs are at higher risk than others; for example, early spay and neutering has been correlated in studies with an increased risk of osteosarcoma, hemangiosarcoma, lymphoma, and mast cell tumors.
Some researchers have also theorized, but not yet fully studied, that there may be a link between excess calcium intake and overfeeding in puppyhood to dogs that develop brittle bones and bone cancers later in life.
We recommend keeping Great Danes intact until 18-24 months, if possible, and feeding an appropriate large or giant breed puppy food with well-controlled calcium levels to dogs under the age of 2. Never feed any food with more than 1.2% calcium.
Excess calcium is damaging to bones during growth, and damaged bones are more prone to disorders such as arthritis, bone cancer, and wobblers disease.
Cost of Great Dane Ear Crop
Help Your Great Dane Live Longer by Reducing Stress
Stress and anxiety are not healthy for humans or dogs.
Studies show that increased levels of cortisol and adrenaline can contribute to a shorter life span by weakening the immune system and causing problems with the heart, gastrointestinal, and endocrine systems.
Dogs that are chronically stressed are going to be more susceptible to health problems of all kinds.
Here are some signs that your dog is stressed or anxious:
Pacing, whining, crying
Destructive behavior
Drooling, panting
Ears pinned, hunched body language
Timid or fearful behaviors
Growling, nipping, and aggression
Depression
Reduce your dogs stress by making sure you offer plenty of exercise and enrichment. This may mean changing your routine and habits to alleviate boredom and get your dog doing more.
Our E-Collar training guide is a popular resource for helping anxious Great Danes get safely off-leash and exploring the world.
You can also reduce stress by using enrichment toys such as the West Paw Toppl Toy. Stuff it with soaked kibble or canned food and freeze before serving.
Talk to your veterinarian about supplements and calming care for dogs that are stressed by fireworks and loud noises, too. This calming probiotic may be an excellent choice for your dog.
Work with a modern, positive balanced dog trainer on confidence building and socialization. A scent work class may be just the ticket!
Avoid outdated training techniques (alpha/dominance, Cesar Milan, ‘police dog training’, etc.) which use a lot of intimidation and stress to shut behaviors down.
Final Tips to Extend a Great Danes Lifespan
Here are a few final tips.
See your veterinarian, regularly. Complete a full blood panel every year so that developing health problems (such as thyroid disease, liver and kidney problems, or diabetes) can be addressed early.
Before surgery, pay the extra money for a full exam, blood work, and health screening.
Keep your dog up to date on flea and tick prevention. Reactions to preventatives are typically minor and happen much less often than the rate at which dogs catch nasty diseases from parasites; you do not want to put a Dane through heartworm treatment!
Happy New Year, Dane lovers! It’s time to make our list of 2023 Resolutions and this year I’m calling it “Do Better for Danes”. Here are 10 dog-inspired resolutions for all of us!
Pick one or pick them all, what resolutions do you have in 2023 to do better for your Dane?
#1 – Sparkly, Healthy Gnashers!
Did you know that dental problems in dogs are not only incredibly painful, but they can lead to tooth loss, heart disease and infections, too?
Resolve to keep your pups teeth in top shape this year. Daily brushing can go a long ways towards keeping gunk and bacteria at bay.
With lots of positive reinforcement and yummy toothpaste, even the most resistant dog can learn to tolerate teeth brushing!
Read here to learn more about veterinary dental cleanings, which are the gold standard for dogs and a great place to get started if your dental maintenance is a little behind.
Overgrown nails on Great Dane Dogs lead to pain, arthritis, joint damage, breakage, and changes to the way the dog moves and walks.
If the nails touch the ground, it’s time for a pawdicure!
Of course, some dogs are incredibly resistant to this process. For those dogs, veterinary advice is a must. Daily positive interactions with nail trims (even if just seeing the nail tool in exchange for a treat) is a step in the right direction, too!
We prefer to keep our Danes nails short and round, the same style seen on show dogs. Short nails are written into the breed standard because they are best for orthopedic health.
Allow your dog to get dirty and play in the mud, too! Exposure to the environment helps build the immune system and allows their coat to do the job it was made to do.
If your dog has a dull coat and chronically itchy or problematic skin, it’s time to see a veterinarian. They may be able to refer you to a veterinary nutritionist, internest, allergist, or dermatologist so you can get to the root of the issue.
Cost of Great Dane Ear Crop
#4 – Healthy Weight
Of course, in humans “diet culture” and “weight loss resolutions” have become a toxic and dangerous space. For dogs, however, it’s a different story.
Humans can be a size 18 or a size 2 and still be incredibly healthy either way. We are not dogs; we have different needs and a much different build. We also have much more control over the food we are fed.
Dogs unfortunately cannot control their diet.
Great Danes that carry extra weight will, on average, shorten their lifespan by around 2 years.
It is never good to bulk up a Great Dane in the interest of making them heftier, bigger, or more robust. Great Danes are actually a lean, athletic breed and seeing a rib or two is not only normal, but desirable.
If your Great Dane needs to lose weight, talk to your veterinarian about a balanced weight-loss diet and appropriate exercise.
#5 – Boredom Busters
Did you know that many behavioral problems, including separation anxiety, are a direct result of boredom?
Destruction, whining, pacing, barking, laziness, and even reactivity can be brought on by, or worsened in dogs that are well…bored. Resolve this year to alleviate boredom in your dog. Give them the best life possible with natural enrichment opportunities.
Most dogs do not receive enough exercise or enrichment. In most cases, a walk on pavement, toys, a yard, and another dog are not nearly enough.
Here is a list of things you can do to bust boredom in your dog (and better their social, obedience, and separation skills in the process!)
Feed meals from puzzle feeders, such as the Kong Wobbler
Fill your pocket with kibble or small treats (like these Ziwi Peak bites) and use them throughout the day to teach new skills and tricks such as stay, heel, spin, and look.
Visit a cafe or pet-friendly store and work on your obedience skills and positive socialization
With proper exercise and socialization, many people are surprised to find that a lot of nuisance behaviors are greatly minimized, if not eliminated. Enrichment is fun and a great opportunity to bond with your dog, too!
#6 – Get Off-Leash, Finally!
We believe that Danes should be off-leash as much as possible.
Their giant bodies and joints are susceptible to damage which can be made worse by the restrictions and pressure from harnesses, head collars, and collars…especially if they lunge or pull a lot!
Of course, teaching a solid loose-leash walk is 100% necessary. However, when possible, Danes should be allowed to move as naturally and freely as much as they can.
Enter the modern E-Collar. This is the only tool on the market that is more gentle than a Gentle Leader, and allows complete, unrestricted freedom of movement.
If your Great Dane will come when called from 10-20 feet away in a low distraction environment, your Dane can be E-Collar trained and reliably off-leash within weeks.
Interested in learning more? We have a ton of resources on this topic.
Did you know that some of the best dog foods available for your Great Dane are not actually the most expensive or fancy ones?
Marketing has taught us to equate fancy, unregulated terms such as “holistic” and “super-premium” with better nutrition. These things are often nothing more than marketing schemes meant to separate your money from your wallet.
This year, we encourage the Dane community to ditch food shaming.
If you want the best nutrition for your Great Dane, skip the boutique foods and look towards science and research, instead. There are proven options available at all price points, and because they are fully complete and balanced, no expensive unbalanced toppers are needed.
I recommend a large or giant breed food from tried and true brands such as Purina, Royal Canin, or Eukanuba for Great Danes. Hill’s or Iam’s are great, too. Purina One Large Breed is a solid, budget-friendly option, for example.
Minced or blended fruits and vegetables from your kitchen (less than 5% of the diet)
Raw turkey necks or chicken paws (for dogs that know how to crunch them up properly, 1 each week)
Still unsure about what to feed your Great Dane and why? Check out Tufts University Petfoodology blog for science-backed nutrition information that is not motivated by affiliate links or sales.
Above All, in 2023…
Let’s all do better for Danes.
We’re going to support ethical breeders and ethical rescues…and make it socially irresponsible for breeders and rescues to be anything less.
We’re going to talk to our veterinarians, and learn to trust them. After all, they want our dogs to thrive.
We want to get our dogs out more. Moving, living their lives, being spoiled rotten. Snuggled up with us, running beside us, and being our faithful, healthy companion for as many days on Earth as we are given with them.
What resolutions do you have for your Danes in 2023? Share them below!
If you are looking for the best dog chews recommended by vets, we’ve created a handy guide for you! Not all dog chews are created equal.
Some cause obstructions, others break teeth, and some have questionable quality. Vet-recommended dog treats and chews will always be safer for your pet, and more beneficial, too.
If you’re like most dog owners, you are always on the lookout for new and interesting ways to keep your pup entertained…but you want to keep them healthy, too, right?
In this post, we will cover:
The differences between dog chews that veterinarians will recommend and those that they won’t
Bones that are too hard and may chip teeth
Chews for aggressive chewers
Dental chews for dogs
Veterinary-recommended brands of dog chews and enrichment toys
Signs of a Quality Dog Chew
Chewing on bones is a natural, enriching, and satisfying behavior for dogs that helps to keep their teeth clean. You will notice that most dogs are very calm and happy when chewing on something!
Some dog chews, however, can be bad for your dog’s health. They may be a choking hazard or can result in broken teeth, obstructions in your dog’s stomach or intestines, or other health problems.
Unfortunately, the pet industry is huge and driven by a lot of marketing. Many companies are selling things that are not safe for your dog.
When choosing a vet-recommended dog chew, it’s important to look for signs of quality that will help you avoid these hazards.
VOHC Dental Health Label
The V.O.H.C. (Veterinary Oral Health Council) is an important organization that tests and certifies products for dental health.
If you see the VOHC label on a product, you can be sure that it is effective at reducing tartar and plaque buildup on teeth. Veterinarians highly recommend VOHC-labeled dental treats to help combat dental disease and promote healthy gums.
Dog Chew Materials
Dog chews come in a variety of materials including:
Natural bones
Animal products such as rawhide or bully sticks
Antlers and horns
Natural ingredients such as corn, wheat, or oats
Sheep, goat, or cow’s milk
Nylon and rubber
Biscuits and hard biscuits
Each type of dog chew has its own benefits and drawbacks, so it is important to do your research before choosing one for your dog.
Aggressive chewers, for example, should not be given treats that are easy to break down into large chunks, or treats that can cause them to crack their teeth.
Some chews are edible, while others are not. Rubber, nylon, and antlers are all non-edible, while rawhide, bones, bully sticks, and biscuits are edible.
There are pros and cons to both types of chews.
Edible chews are more appealing to dogs since they can be eaten. Most dogs will be more likely to chew on them, which is important for mental stimulation and keeping teeth clean.
Edible chews can pose a choking hazard or obstruction risk if they are not properly digested, and can also lead to weight gain if your dog consumes too many of them.
Non-edible chews, on the other hand, are not as appealing to dogs since they cannot be eaten. However, they may be less likely to cause obstructions or fractured teeth, and can often be reused again and again.
Safe Chews for Dog’s Teeth
Most veterinarians agree that no matter what kind of chew you choose for your dog, it should never be so hard as to cause teeth to crack, fracture, or wear down.
A good rule of thumb is that you should be able to dent the chew with your thumbnail. If you can’t, the chew may be unsafe for your dog.
We go into detail about each of our top picks below!
The best vet-recommended chews will stand up to aggressive chewers, be safe to eat (with supervision), will be less likely to damage teeth, are a tasty treat, and will be enriching and engaging to your dog.
Virbac C.E.T. Rawhide Chews
Not all rawhide dog chews are created equal. A lot of rawhide is imported and may not be up to the same safety standards.
Virbac C.E.T. Rawhide Chews are made with high-quality beef hide, which is more digestible than rawhide, and then treated with enzymes. They are approved by the V.O.H.C. (Veterinary Oral Health Council) for cleaning teeth.
We do not recommend any kind of rawhide-type chew for dogs who guard, hoard, or gulp. They must be encouraged to calmly gnaw and chew C.E.T. rawhides, never to swallow large pieces.
This will help strengthen their jaw muscles and provide oral health benefits. Unlike most other rawhide products, the Virbac C.E.T. is considered by veterinarians to be a safe chew for many dogs.
We do not recommend these chews for dogs who will swallow large chunks. These should be used by dogs who like the process of gnawing, not gulping.
Raw, slightly frozen turkey (or chicken) necks (with the meat on) can help clean your dog’s teeth. Dogs love them, too!
When choosing to feed ANY kind of raw food to your pet, you must be aware of the very real risk of bacterial contamination.
Raw turkey necks are not necessarily good for dogs who don’t typically eat raw food, and they must be offered with supervision to dogs who are also taught to crunch them up slowly. Good hygiene practices here are also a must!
It’s important to note that turkey necks are considered food and must be calculated as part of your dog’s diet and calorie or nutrient intake. Don’t overfeed. They are a treat to use sparingly.
Some veterinarians will recommend raw bones, some will not. Talk to your veterinarian! They see 100’s of pets every month and know what typically results in ER visits and digestive issues.
It’s no secret that we love West Paw chew toys for dogs, and this is one of my personal favorites!
The West Paw Qwizl is a great option for dogs who like to chew and play fetch. It’s made of durable rubber, so it will hold up to aggressive chewers and large dogs.
It’s also bouncy and fun, making it a fantastic and fun toy for interactive playtime. The Qwizl can be filled with treats or dog-safe peanut butter, which can make it even more appealing to dogs as they attempt to lick, gnaw, or chew the goodies out.
You can even use it as a bully stick holder!
The soft texture is less likely to cause tooth fractures and the whole thing is dishwasher-safe.
West Paw chews and dog toys are made in the USA and are backed by a 100% satisfaction guarantee. They are also non-toxic, safe for dogs, and eco-friendly. 10/10!
No dog chew blog would be complete without mention of the Kong Classic dog toy. It’s a vet-recommended chew toy that is perfect for dogs who like to chew and play fetch.
The Kong Classic is made of durable rubber and can be filled with treats, dog food, or peanut butter. It’s also dishwasher-safe.
Kongs are great for interactive playtime and can help keep puppies and dogs busy! We highly recommend them for crate training, puppy training, and teaching active dogs to settle in the home.
Choose the red version for average chewers and the black one for tough chewers and always choose the largest size possible for your breed/dog.
They were proven to help reduce plaque and tartar buildup on teeth, and dogs love them! Vet-recommended dog chews like Pro Plan Dental Chewz will keep your dog busy and contribute to good oral health, too.
As always, supervise your dog while they are enjoying these!
Whimzees are made of all-natural vegetarian ingredients and are also V.O.H.C.-approved. They come in fun shapes and sizes, and dogs love them!
Whimzees are a great way to keep your dog’s teeth clean and help reduce plaque and tartar buildup to keep your dog’s mouth fresh and healthy.
As an added bonus, they’re also low in fat and calories. Supervise your pet; if they get large chunks off, this may not be the dog chew for them. For giant breed dogs, these may not be large enough. You know your pet best.
BeneBones are synthetic nylon non-edible chew that is flavored with real food ingredients like chicken, bacon, and peanut butter.
They are durable and last longer than most natural bones and can be a good outlet for dogs who like to chew often.
However, they are not necessarily great for teeth (as they are not very soft) and can cause wear if used excessively. Keep usage to a minimum, and make sure to pick chews in a variety of different types to keep your dog busy and engaged.
Using the same type of dog chew each day (especially the nylon ones) is not a healthy habit and not vet-recommended, either.
Raw marrow bones are a single-ingredient natural product. Not all veterinarians approve of these, however, some do. Talk to your veterinarian before offering marrow bones to your dog.
Raw bones can be very messy, so if you decide to offer them, do so outside or on an easy-to-clean surface. They can also splinter, so it’s important to supervise your dog while they are chewing on them.
For Great Danes, we recommend long beef or bison marrow bones, offered frozen. Don’t allow your dog to have them so long that they eat a ton of marrow at once! This can cause digestive upset. Additionally, monitor your dog.
A dog who is using a marrow bone appropriately will be scraping their teeth on it, not trying to crunch it up. If your dog is doing more with the bone than trying to get the marrow out or scraping their teeth on the sides of it, it’s time to take it away.
Once your dog has emptied the bone of marrow, throw it out. At that point, the bone itself will have become more brittle and will be more likely to fracture.
Here is our list of dog chews that your dog should not have access to:
Mass market rawhide (not approved by the V.O.H.C.)
Horns or antlers, (such as elk antlers) that can crack teeth
Any chew that your dog aggressively chomps and easily breaks large pieces off of
Cooked bones of ANY type
Rope toys (great for tug, unsafe for chewing on!)
Smoked and meaty ‘dog bones’, including knuckles, (like the kind you might see in the grocery store)
Smoked pig ears, hooves, and similar type dog chews you might find at the farm store (can cause an obstruction)
Dog Chew Best Practices
Follow the manufacturer’s instructions when using V.O.H.C.-approved dental chews and dog treats. Most will say they can (or should) be offered daily.
When offering dog chews that might splinter or cause an obstruction (such as C.E.T. rawhides, raw turkey necks, bully sticks, or raw marrow bones), supervise your dog as much as possible!
Some non-edible chew toys are the safest option for crate training when you might not be actively supervising your dog, assuming they aren’t prone to shredding and gulping. Make sure to choose the correct size toy for your dog.
Never give chews, including ‘tough’ ones, to dogs that are prone to getting large pieces off or swallowing non-edible items such as rubber, nylon, or fabric.
Dog Dental Health
It’s also important to note that VOHC dental chews are NOT a replacement for daily teeth brushing and professional dental cleanings by your veterinarian.
Your dog’s gums or teeth may wear down unevenly if they are offered too many of the same kind of chew or if they favor one side. This is especially true for aggressive chewers!
Encourage variety and different textures as much as possible when offering dental treats or other dog bones.
This question requires a blog post just on its own, but it’s important to touch on!
Some dogs become very possessive and even aggressive when it comes to their food, especially bones and high-value treats. This is a survival instinct that stems back to the days when dogs were wild!
Signs that your dog is resource-guarding and insecure include:
Ears pinned
Stiffness
Hovering/covering it up
Burying it
Low growls
Shaking when you approach
Belly-up posture
Snarls, snaps, and bites
Dogs in the wild had to protect their food from other animals, or they would simply starve to death. If your dog is showing signs of fear or aggression while chewing on a bone, it’s important that you understand why it’s happening.
It has absolutely nothing to do with dominance or ‘alpha’ behavior. As a matter of fact, resource guarding is a sign of insecurity.
The worst thing you can do is take bones or treats, hover, pester, annoy, scold, hit, or punish your dog for guarding its chew toy.
Because it is such a dangerous behavior, it’s important to monitor the interactions that you and especially your children have with a dog who is prone to this.
To begin eliminating it, prevent the behavior by not provoking it in the first place. Give your dog a safe, quiet space to work on their chew, and respect their space so they can do so in peace.
Never allow children to mess with your dog’s bone, food, crate, toys, or bedding, especially while they are actively using those things!
Over time, you can reduce the behavior and change your dog’s mental state by proving to your dog that when you approach, GOOD things happen! Calmly walk by with a gentle, non-threatening posture, drop a bite of chicken, and leave.
After a few repetitions, your dog will begin to feel less stressed that you are about to take their valuable dog treats. With time, your dog will be happy to see you near its bone and will no longer feel insecure, making the whole process safer and less stressful for all.
Today I’m sharing 5 great reasons to have your dog’s teeth cleaned by a veterinarian!
Dental health is important for both humans and dogs. Just like us, dogs can suffer from oral diseases, tooth decay, and gum disease if their teeth aren’t cleaned on a regular basis.
The American Veterinary Dental College recommends that all dogs have professional teeth cleaning at least once a year.
I’ve also just been through this with 3 dogs (yes, three!) and have some tips and advice to share.
It’s normal to feel nervous about putting your dog under anesthesia, especially when you don’t know what to expect. I’m going to clear that all up for you today!
How Often Should I have my Dog’s Teeth Cleaned by a Veterinarian?
The short answer is: it depends. Factors affecting how often your dog needs a teeth cleaning include their age, breed, and overall oral health.
Your veterinarian can help you determine how often your individual dog should have a professional dental cleaning.
Some dogs require more frequent cleanings than others, even if you are diligent about brushing at home!
Your dog’s teeth may look clean and healthy on the surface, but there could be problems lurking below the gum line.
A big part of a veterinarian’s job is to prevent problems before they start, and one way to do that is by taking dental x-rays.
These are done as part of the dental cleaning, while the dog is sedated.
Dental x-rays allow your veterinarian to clearly picture your dog’s teeth, gums, and the bones that support them. This is important because many dental problems (such as tooth decay or infection) can’t be seen with the naked eye.
If your veterinarian finds anything concerning on the x-ray, they will call you to approve additional treatments (while your dog is still under anesthesia).
In my case, one of my three dogs had decay below the gum line in one tooth. Brushing would never have caught it, and it wasn’t visible to the naked eye.
I approved a tooth extraction over the phone, which added about $75 to my total expense for the procedure.
Dental disease is one of the most common diseases in dogs, affecting over 80% of dogs by the time they’re three years old.
That’s why it’s so important to have your dog’s teeth cleaned on a regular basis – to prevent problems before they start, and to catch any early signs of dental disease.
A professional teeth cleaning will remove tartar and plaque above and below the gum line, which you can’t do.
Diseased teeth in your dog’s mouth can lead to serious health problems, including infection, tooth loss, and even damage to the heart, liver, and kidneys.
That’s why it’s so important to have your dog’s teeth cleaned on a regular basis – not only for their dental health but for their overall health as well.
If your dog has dental disease, they’re likely in a lot of pain. Dogs hide their pain well, and it’s easy to miss the subtle signs.
A professional teeth cleaning will relieve that pain and help your dog feel (and act) normal again.
My dog that had to have his tooth pulled had become growly and noisy when being petted by strangers. This is not like him, he loves people! He wasn’t being aggressive, he was talking a lot, though.
Following his dental procedure, that behavior went away. He’s back to being his sweet, loving self.
Your dog may be in intense pain, but has no way to tell you. It can be easy to miss!
As an added bonus, a veterinary dental cleaning = fresh breath!
No more stinky dog breath caused by slimy, gunky teeth. This is good for you and your dog (who no doubt does not want to live with that nasty bacteria stinking up their mouth every day).
Veterinary Teeth Cleaning vs. Sedation-Free Cleanings
Many boutique pet stores and dog training facilities offer clinics where you can have your dog’s teeth cleaned without sedation.
I have never done this, but I can see how it would be appealing – less expensive and no anesthesia risks.
However, from what I’ve been told by my veterinarian (and many others), these types of cleanings are not as thorough and may even be bad for your dog’s dental health!
Not to mention, they are more stressful for your dog as they are awake and aware of what is happening. This type of cleaning cannot address hidden decay or bacteria below the gum line, either.
Do veterinarians recommend sedation-free teeth cleaning?
Veterinarians do not recommend sedation-free teeth cleaning.
Having your dog’s teeth cleaned under anesthesia will be MUCH less traumatic for your dog, even though ‘sedation-free dentistry’ is marketed as a ‘gentle’ alternative that sounds appealing to nervous dog owners.
Think about this for a moment: many humans require sedation for even basic dental work. We are often nervous about dental work, even though we have much more control over the process and our understanding of it than dogs do!
To put this bluntly, sedation-free dental cleanings for your pet’s teeth are NOT necessarily gentle, humane, or stress-free. Even if they were, they only address the plaque and tartar on the visible part of the tooth, not what is below the gum line. Periodontal disease may very well still be a major problem for your dog.
This is all, of course, assuming that your dog is an ideal candidate (is in good health and does not have a fractured tooth or excessive decay) and doesn’t wiggle, struggle, or stress during the procedure.
Even if your dog is a perfect candidate, after you pay $300 to have your dog’s teeth cleaned without anesthesia, your dog will still have bacteria lurking, ready to grow, and continuing to cause bad breath and decay.
Yikes.
Many dogs require more care to remove tartar build-up and dental plaque than can be provided by anesthesia-free dentistry, costing you more in the long run for proper dental care.
Once you’ve decided to get a dental cleaning for your dog, it’s time to prepare! Knowing what to expect will make the process much smoother and less stressful for both of you.
Dog Dental Surgery Pre-Op
It is very important that your veterinarian do a physical exam and bloodwork prior to dental surgery.
This is necessary to check for any underlying medical conditions that could cause problems during anesthesia. Do not skimp on blood work!
Your veterinarian will also perform a quick, easy dental examination to assess your dog’s overall dental health and to make sure that there are no obvious problems that need to be addressed prior to anesthesia.
Contrary to popular belief, old age does not mean that a dog shouldn’t have anesthesia! Many times, the benefits of regular dental cleanings far outweigh any risks associated with general anesthesia.
Your veterinarian will provide you with information regarding their protocols. Most of the time, they will request that your dog has no food for a period of time prior to the professional cleaning.
This is because anesthesia can cause vomiting, and they want to avoid any risk of your dog aspirating (breathing in) food or water.
Your veterinarian or a technician will also go over the risks and benefits of the procedure with you. You will leave your pet with the veterinarian for the procedure, and depending on how your veterinary clinic operates your pet will likely be with them for most of the day.
When it’s time for your dog to undergo the procedure, the veterinarian will perform a last-minute pre-op exam and review notes about your dog.
Veterinary technicians will monitor your pet’s vital signs and following x-rays, the veterinarian (or a highly trained technician) will perform the dental cleaning. They will review the x-rays, and look for signs of periodontal disease and fractured teeth. They will also remove plaque and tartar and polish the teeth.
If extractions are needed, the veterinarian will perform those as well as look for any other dental issues that might need to be addressed.
Following dental procedures, most dogs need several hours to move the anesthesia out of their system.
They may be nauseous, tired, or unstable when you first get home. While your pet is recovering it is helpful to keep them calm and follow the instructions that your veterinarian gave you for medications, food, water, and rest.
Most pets are up and moving fairly quickly. By the next day, you’d never know they’d had a professional dental cleaning (other than their shiny, clean, beautiful new teeth)!
If your dog had one or more teeth removed, it may have stitches and will have to be on a soft diet for at least 7 days. Your veterinarian may also have prescribed antibiotics and pain medication.
Most veterinarians will recommend a follow-up visit, in this case, to make sure that everything healed up correctly.
They will also discuss best practices for home care, including how to prevent periodontal pockets and the buildup of plaque and tartar, so that your investment in dental cleaning pays off.
It is important to brush your dog’s teeth regularly, just like you brush your own!
Bad breath is just one sign of poor dog dental care, not to mention tartar buildup. Most pet owners, unfortunately, don’t spend enough time on this important aspect of pet health and their dog’s well-being.
So how should you take care of your dog’s teeth?
You can use a special dog toothbrush and toothpaste, or there are even finger brushes that you can slip over your finger to help make the process easier.
Most dogs are receptive to this process, but if your dog isn’t, we’ve included some training tips below.
There are a few things to keep in mind when brushing your dog’s teeth:
-Start slowly and build up to longer brushing sessions.
-Be gentle! There is no need to force or scold your dog.
-Use round, circular motions and try to give attention to each tooth.
-Make it a positive experience by using lots of calm, loving praise.
-Be gentle with your dog’s mouth.
If you’re not sure how to get started or have a resistant dog, your veterinarian and a great dog trainer can show you how to brush your dog’s teeth properly.
PRO TIP: when addressing puppy biting with your young dog, never use harsh handling techniques such as tapping, pinching, hitting, thumbing, or gagging. These dated training methods encourage puppies to resist having hands near their mouths, which you need to be able to do for safety, exams, and good dental health!
For some dogs that are particularly prone to issues with oral health, a veterinary dental diet can go a long way toward keeping their mouth healthy.
These diets are specially formulated to help reduce tartar buildup and keep your dog’s teeth healthy. They typically require a prescription. Here are some great examples of dental diets:
In addition to a good diet, and regular dental cleanings, there are many different types of dental chews available that can help reduce plaque and tartar.
Always supervise your dog when offering dental chews. Do not offer them to dogs that chew quickly and swallow large pieces. Additionally, do not offer chews to dogs that are too small or too large for their size.
Look for dental treats that come with the V.O.H.C. seal of approval! Here are some popular options:
Never use human toothpaste to clean your dog’s teeth. Human toothpaste often contains xylitol, which is toxic and deadly to dogs. Not only that, the mint flavor may be off-putting to your dog.
Dog toothpaste typically comes in pet-friendly flavors such as pork or chicken, and should be approved by the V.O.H.C. (this information should be on the package).
They will typically be formulated with enzymes and cleaners that target the kind of gunk and tartar buildup that dogs are most prone to.
If you have a puppy, practice a gentle oral exam daily so that your puppy gets used to it. As before, never use harsh handling techniques which can build resistance to the process!
Brushing your dog’s teeth should be part of your routine, several times a week. Daily is ideal, but we all know how tricky that can be (especially if you have multiple dogs!).
Chews and an appropriate diet can really help prevent tartar accumulation, however, regular veterinary dental cleanings (with anesthesia) and a thorough oral exam should still be performed yearly.
Do you have any more questions about periodontal disease and the process of dental cleaning using general anesthesia?
Leave a comment below! We also recommend Ask a Veterinarian on Facebook, check them out.
