Whimzees: Why Dental Health is So Important!Whimzees: Why Dental Health is So Important!

Whimzees: Why Dental Health is So Important! 

Dental health is a cornerstone of overall wellbeing, not just for humans but for dogs too. While pet parents often focus on nutrition, exercise, and regular veterinary checkups, dental care for dogs can sometimes be overlooked. However, neglecting a dog's dental health can lead to serious consequences. We explore the critical importance of dog dental health, especially brushing, and highlight how products like WHIMZEES can play a vital role in maintaining a dog's oral hygiene.

The Importance of Dog Dental Health

Good dental health in dogs is essential for their overall health and longevity.  Studies show that over 80% of adult dogs suffer from dental disease making it the #1 health issue affecting our pets and a top concern for pet parents. Poor dental health can lead to a variety of issues, including:The YuMOVE Joint Care range is designed to support dogs at every life stage – whether they’re young, adult, or senior! It contains joint-supporting ingredients, such as our unique and sustainably sourced ActivEase® Green Lipped Mussel, Glucosamine, and Hyaluronic Acid to support joint structure and mobility.

  1. Bad Breath, Pain and Discomfort: Dogs with dental disease will display common symptoms such as bad breath, discoloured teeth, drooling, and potentially even difficulty eating which can be a sign of an advanced state of dental disease that left unchecked can progress to significant pain and discomfort. 
  2. Systemic Health Problems:  With severe dental disease, bacteria from the mouth and infected gums can enter the bloodstream and spread to vital organs, potentially leading to conditions such as heart disease, kidney disease, and liver problems.
  3. Behavioural Changes: A dog in pain due to dental issues may exhibit changes in behaviour, such as irritability, reduced activity, and even aggression.

As dogs grow into adulthood, their joint support needs will change. Joint stiffness can sometimes be hard to spot, so implementing a supplement, such as YuMOVE Joint Care for Adult Dogs, to their daily routine could benefit them.

When your dog reaches their senior years, you should consider adapting their joint support by giving them a supplement designed specifically for older dogs, such as YuMOVE Joint Care for Senior Dogs, which includes added fish oil to provide even more Omega-3s alongside Green Lipped Mussel to soothe older, stiffer joints. 

Expert Opinions on Canine Dental Health

Dr. Danielle Bernal, global veterinarian at WHIMZEES emphasises the importance of regular dental care for dogs, “Within as little as 24 hours, bacterial plaque starts to accumulate on a tooth and if not removed each day with mechanical abrasion such as toothbrush or the active chewing of a dental chew, this biofilm can progress in time to become hardened tartar which  intern progresses to potential gum inflammation, bad breath, loosening of the tooth attachments and  acute pain and discomfort for our dogs.” And how best to help prevent it from a young age "The very best thing a new puppy owner can do is to start cleaning their dogs' teeth from 3 months of age and keep doing so every single day, just like us".

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The Role of WHIMZEES in Canine Dental Care

WHIMZEES are dental chews designed to support a dog's oral health. Made from natural ingredients, these chews are not only tasty but also scientifically proven to reduce plaque and tartar buildup. WHIMZEES have several features that make them an excellent choice for maintaining your dog's dental hygiene:

  1. Unique Shapes and Textures: WHIMZEES come in various shapes and textures that encourage dogs to chew for extended periods, which not only help keep them busy, but it also helps to clean their teeth for longer and support healthy gums.
  2. Natural Ingredients: WHIMZEES are made from just 6 key natural ingredients with no added animal proteins, grains or artificial additives, making them a healthy choice for daily use and a great choice for pets with dietary sensitivities 
  3. Scientifically Proven: Studies have shown that WHIMZEES reduce plaque and tartar when chewed daily. Their effectiveness has been validated by veterinary professionals and WHIMZEES Toothbrush has the VOHC Seal of Acceptance for both plaque and tartar making them a trusted option for pet parents.

How to Brush A Dog's Teeth

While dental chews like WHIMZEES are highly beneficial, brushing a dog's teeth is still the gold standard for oral care. Here are some tips for pet parents to make the process easier and more effective:

  1. Start Early: Introduce tooth brushing to your dog at a young age to get them accustomed to the process. Even older dogs can learn to tolerate tooth brushing with patience and positive reinforcement.
  2. Use the Right Tools: Use a toothbrush designed specifically for dogs and canine toothpaste. Human toothpaste can be harmful to dogs, so it's crucial to use products formulated for pets.
  3. Be Gentle and Patient: Start by letting your dog lick the toothpaste off your finger, then gradually introduce the toothbrush. Brush in small, circular motions, focusing on the gum line where plaque and tartar tend to accumulate.
  4. Create a Routine: Consistency is key. Aim to brush your dog's teeth at least a few times a week, if not daily. Make it a part of your regular routine to ensure long-term dental health.
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Combining Dental Chews and Brushing for Optimal Health

While brushing is essential, combining it with dental chews like WHIMZEES can provide a comprehensive approach to a dog's dental care. The combination of mechanical cleaning from brushing and the chewing action from WHIMZEES helps to keep a dog's mouth clean and healthy.