The Royal Veterinary College recommends brushing your dog’s teeth as the best home remedy for combating gum disease and controlling plaque. However, according to a recent survey, 56% of owners rarely or never brush their dogs’ teeth, while only 7% claim to brush their dogs’ teeth daily. This has given rise to the ‘chew epidemic’, with four in ten owners saying they rely on dog chews as a replacement for tooth brushing. Ryan Whitman, Nutritional Lead and dog nutrition expert at Fish4Dogs explains why it’s essential to establish a full bedtime dental routine for your dog, which includes giving them chews AND brushing their teeth. What are the benefits of dental chews? Studies have shown that by the age of two, 80% of dogs already suffer from some form of dental disease. This occurs five times more often in dogs than in people, due to the lack of brushing and dogs’ mouths being more alkaline, promoting the formation of plaque. Chewing is a good way to promote healthy dental care. The mechanical action of chewing can help promote saliva production, which naturally washes away food particle and bacteria. Meanwhile, the abrasive texture of many chews is good for removing tartar and plaque buildup. Veterinary experts state that having the right chews is key. Anything too hard, such as antlers, bones, or hooves, may cause damage, and anything high in calories, sugar, or salt could result in additional weight or health problems. Soft chews, like dried fish skins, are preferable, as they are lower in calories and have the perfect texture…
