How To Check Your Dog's Teeth

Overview

• Dental disease is a common problem in dogs, especially as they get older.
• By checking your dog’s mouth regularly, in between vet appointments, you’re likely to spot any developing problems early.
• It’s essential to make mouth checks a positive experience, so your dog isn’t worried about it.

Step-by-step guide to checking your dog’s teeth

The best way to get your dog comfortable with having their teeth checked is through reward-based training – which simply means making it a positive experience that they associate with rewards.

You’ll need to train them over a few short sessions, at their own pace, using high-value (yummy) treats. Start as young as possible, but don’t worry, it’s never too old to teach an old dog a new trick!  

• Begin by touching your dog’s lips (on the outside) and rewarding them with a treat.
• Once they are totally comfortable with this step, start lifting their lips, and rewarding them afterwards.
• Once they are happy with their lips being lifted, start gently touching their teeth and gums, not forgetting to reward them afterwards.
• If they appear worried at any point, stop, give them a break, and at the next session, take it a bit slower. Only ever progress to the next step once they are completely comfortable.
• Once your dog is happy with these steps, you can fully examine their mouth – but don’t forget to keep rewarding them throughout.

Step 1 – Check their gums

• Gums should be salmon pink in colour
• There shouldn’t be any:
  • Redness
  • Ulcers
  • Bleeding
  • Lumps
  • Visible tooth roots
• Check all the way to the back, and don’t worry if you come across any healthy-looking black or grey patches – this will be their natural pigment (gum colour).

Step 2 – Check their teeth

• Gently touch each tooth to make sure it’s not wobbly, cracked, or painful.
• Make sure none are missing, and if they’re an adult, make sure they don’t have any baby teeth left.
• Keep an eye out for tartar, which is a hard brown substance that can build up and cause problems.

Step 3 – Check their breath

• Finally, give your dog’s breath a sniff. It obviously won’t be minty fresh, but it shouldn’t be too stinky!

If you notice any signs of a problem with their teeth, gums or breath, book an appointment with your vet.

FAQs

Published: August 2022