The love for our pets has turned their care into a multi-billion-dollar-a-year industry. Not only do we buy them high-end foods and bedding, but we also don’t hesitate to spend on treats and toys. Whenever we enter the store, there’s always something new we must buy for our dear friends.
An item that has gained in popularity in recent years is dental chews. But are they really worth the money?
Check out a vet’s perspective in this March 19 video.
@amirthevetCheck comments ill share the name of the powder for you guys !! #dogs #dogowners #learning #dogadvice #dogteethcleaning #dogteeth #dogdentalhygiene #southafrica
Veterinarian Amir Anwary (@amirthevet) tells us to save our money on those dental chews. Not only are these treats not helping to clean our dog’s teeth, but they also might have a negative impact on their health.
Related: Nifty Hack for Helping Keep a Dog’s Teeth Clean Is a Major Game-Changer
Dangers of doggy dental chews
That’s because manufacturers primarily use cornstarch to make these treats. Amir describes, “Cornstarch is a high-calorie ingredient.” Overweight dogs fed these treats may not lose weight and could potentially gain more. He also reveals that cornstarch is a well-known allergen, so for dogs prone to food allergies, these will only make them worse. Finally, he reports that the starch in these dental chews, when given regularly, can actually be harmful to dental health. Yikes!
Safe ways to keep a dog’s teeth clean
Amir tells us that the best way to keep our dog’s teeth clean is to brush them. However, unless this was a practice we began at a young age, our dogs may not be a fan of this idea. Instead, he found success in using a dental powder. As he explains, this is sprinkled over the dog’s food and helps clean their teeth as they chew. He reports that the powder contains the same beneficial ingredients as the chews but without cornstarch. He reveals it has no known allergies, is calorie-free, and is much cheaper than dental chews.
Tips for brushing a dog’s teeth
It’s essential to use toothpaste made for dogs if you decide to begin brushing. That’s because human toothpaste can sometimes contain sweeteners like xylitol, which can be toxic. Papaya Veterinary recommends cleaning your dog’s teeth and gums in a downward motion. However, unlike humans, they say dogs only need to have the outside of their teeth brushed, as this is where residues accumulate. And it only takes about 30 seconds on each side to get their pearly whites sparkling.
Thankfully, we have options like the powder Dr. Anwar suggested for those dogs who are not fans of having their teeth brushed. If it’s as effective, there’s no need to add any additional stress to our lives.
