Dogs love a little PDA. But there are kisses you lean into, and then there are kisses you subtly dodge while pretending to tie your shoe. If you’re a dog parent, you already know which ones we’re talking about.

So, along with walks in the rain, cosy blankies, and letting them take your side of the bed, brushing their teeth should be added to the list of acts of service. Pet dental care might not feel romantic, but it’s one of the clearest ways to show your dog you care. While a little “dog breath” feels normal, persistent bad breath is often the first red flag of a much bigger health issue. Caring for it early is part of loving them (and having wholehearted dog insurance means you don’t have to choose between their health and your budget).

Trust us – ignoring it doesn’t make it go away. It just makes cuddle time complicated.

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Why pet dental care matters for fresh-kiss moments

So, why does your dog have bad breath? Spoiler, it’s not the kibble! Just like humans, dogs and cats get plaque and tartar buildup from leftover food, bacteria, and minerals in their saliva. Over time, this buildup hardens, irritates the gums, and can lead to dental diseases such as gingivitis and periodontal disease, pain, tooth loss, and even systemic illness.

In fact, it is the most commonly diagnosed condition in pets, and it often starts quietly with breath that makes you lean back instead of in.

  • Industry studies show that around 80% of dogs and 70% of cats over the age of three have some form of dental disease
  • And that two out of three dogs suffer from halitosis (a severe form of bad breath).

If left untreated, those bacteria don’t just stay in the mouth. They can travel through the bloodstream and affect the heart, liver, and kidneys.

 

How to get rid of your dog’s bad breath

Here’s the good news: pet dental care works. And it’s way less intense than you may think. Consistent, simple habits like daily or regular dental care with products designed for pets and occasional vet check-ins, can:

  • Freshen breath
  • Reduce plaque and tartar
  • Prevent painful dental disease
  • Protect your pet’s overall health.

Which means fewer vet emergencies and way more kissable moments.

 

Understanding pet dental health: Signs of dental problems in pets

Your pet can’t say, “Bestie, my gums hurt.” But they do show signs if you know what to look for. Persistent bad breath may be the big headline, but it’s not the only clue. You should also watch for:

  • Drooling or pawing at the mouth
  • Red, swollen, or bleeding gums
  • Yellow or brown buildup on teeth
  • Difficulty eating or dropping food
  • Preferring soft food over crunchy treats
  • Behaviour changes.

Dental pain often hides behind small changes. So if you notice these signs, act sooner rather than later.

 

What you can give your pet for bad breath

Pet dental care isn’t a one-and-done thing – it’s a combination of small, smart habits. Helpful tools include:

  • Dental chews and treats
  • Oral rinses and gels
  • Dental water additives
  • Natural dental powders
  • Pet-safe toothbrushes and toothpaste.

The goal is to reduce bacteria daily so plaque doesn’t get comfortable. Natural dental products are especially popular because they’re gentle, effective, and easy to use every day.

 

Daily pet dental care routine

When it comes to pet dental care, you need to think less “deep clean” and more “daily maintenance.” Brushing, just like in humans, is the main MVP. Brushing consistently stops plaque before it hardens, reduces gum inflammation, minimises the need for sedated cleanings and saves you money in the long term.

No… they won’t love it at first. Start slow:

  • Use pet-specific toothpaste only (never human toothpaste)
  • Brush gently in small circles
  • Focus on the gum line
  • Even a few times a week helps.

Pair that with dental powders or water additives, and you’ve got the makings of a routine that’ll work wonders.

 

Professional pet dental cleaning

So, now that you’re a pro at brushing your dog’s teeth at home, it’s worth remembering that great dental care doesn’t stop there. The ultimate dental care dream team is a mix of daily home care, regular vet check-ups, and the occasional professional clean when needed.

Veterinary dental cleaning:

  • Removes hardened tartar
  • Assesses hidden issues under the gum line
  • Often requires anaesthesia.

Though effective, they’re also costly and not something you want to do often if you can help it.

How often should dogs get teeth professionally cleaned?

It depends on breed, age, diet, genetics, and home care routine. Some dogs need cleanings every year. Others, far less often, especially with good daily dental habits.

When to see a vet?

If your pet shows pain, bleeding gums, or struggles to eat, it’s time to call the experts.

 

Bad breath in dogs FAQs

Is bad breath ever normal?
No. It’s common, not normal.

Can dental disease really affect organs?
Yes. Mouth bacteria can impact the heart, liver, and kidneys.

What’s the easiest first step?
Start small. Dental chews. Water additives. Consistency beats intensity.

 

Pet dental insurance and preventive support

Pet dental care isn’t about perfect teeth. It’s about comfort, health, and those close-up moments you don’t flinch from. Pet insurance can help soften the blow by covering:

  • Dental illness
  • Extractions
  • Some cleaning-related procedures (depending on your plan).

It turns dental care from “Yikes, how much?” into “Okay, we’ve got this.” Preventive care can go a long way in avoiding bigger dental bills later on. That’s where Pet Wellness Benefits come in: a simple add-on that helps cover routine care and keeps small issues from turning into expensive ones. It includes cover for dental check-ups, vaccinations, parasite control, grooming, elective sterilisation, microchipping, and more, and is available on Vital, Elite, and Deluxe plans. If Wellness Benefits aren’t part of your plan yet, you can add them anytime via the Manage Portal.

When dotsure.co.za cover helps most

When:

  • Dental disease sneaks up
  • A cleaning becomes urgent
  • Extractions are needed.

And if you’ve got multiple mouths to smooch and want to keep them all smelling great, don’t worry – we’ve got you covered with a multiple pet insurance discount of 15%. So today for pet dental care cover that keeps kisses sweet, tails wagging, and cuddle time stress-free.  today.

 

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