It's no secret that dog treats are a staple in most households with furry members – after all your pup loves them! But are these treat-giving habits good for our dog’s teeth? Going to the root of the matter (pun intended), let's explore what experts have to say about this hotly contested topic.
The Good
Veterinarians agree that anything you can do to reduce tartar and plaque build-up on your dog's teeth is a good idea. This includes brushing your dog's teeth regularly (daily if possible), feeding them quality kibble, and giving them dental-specific treats and chews. While there is some debate over which types of dental chews are most effective, it's generally accepted that any kind of chew that gets your dog's teeth nice and clean is beneficial. Rawhide bones and dental sticks are all popular choices as they help to dislodge plaque and spread protective saliva.
The Bad
On the flip side, some vets believe that giving your dog too many hard treats can cause damage to its teeth. This is because hard treats can chip or crack a tooth if your pup bites down too hard. In addition, some types of dental chews (like rawhide bones) can splinter and cause serious mouth wounds. So, it's important to be mindful of the type and frequency of treats you're giving your pup. A good rule of thumb is to give them at least 1-2 treats per day.
The Ugly
Unfortunately, even if you're being mindful of the types of treats you give your pup and how often you give them, there's always the possibility that something could go wrong. That's why it's important to closely supervise your pup while they're enjoying a treat and to throw away any treat that shows signs of wear or damage. Better to be safe than sorry!
Conclusion
When it comes to giving your pup dental-specific treats, it's essential to strike a balance between doing what's best for their teeth and not giving them so many hard treats that they end up damaging their teeth.
With anything you feed your pet, keep an eye out to ensure they’re in good health during and after consuming them. Supervise them while they enjoy their treat, look for chips or cracks in their teeth occasionally and make sure to get them seen by your vet if you’re unsure of anything.
It's understood that dogs that chew actively have less plaque build-up and significantly reduced plaque, tartar, and gingivitis. Wild at Heart dog treats promote dental health due to their chewy texture, and you know they’re not going to do any harm due to the completely natural and simple ingredients.
