Did you know that over 80% of dogs over 3 show signs and symptoms of active dental disease? While dental health for dogs is important, most pet owners don’t know how to care for the gums and teeth of their pets.
Do you?
If not, then you’re doing the right thing by doing a little research! There are a lot of misinformation out there. There’s also a lot of dangerous dog chews on the market that can harm your pets.
Read on to discover more about dog toys and how they can impact senior dog teeth and health.
What to Know About Dog Chews and Senior Dog Teeth
From the statistic above, you can assume that dental health issues are very common in senior dogs. If you have an older pet, then their teeth are likely feeling the effects of age.
With that in mind, traditional dog chews and toys can be unsafe for your pet. Hard toys, bones, or sticks can all cause a dental emergency by chipping a tooth. When the underlying tooth is weak, fracturing can happen even with “soft” chews.
So, your approach to toys needs to be two-pronged. First, you need to ensure your senior pet’s teeth are as healthy as you can by taking them to the vet. Next, look for pet-safe chew toys designed for seniors.
The Truth About Toys for Dogs on the Market Today
You’d think that all dog toys on the market would be safe. That’s where you’d be wrong.
Research revealed that almost half (45%) of pet products had at least one hazardous toxin! These included arsenic, chlorine, and even bromine at detectable levels.
With that in mind, you can’t rely on a pet product to keep your pet safe. You need to do the research yourself.
How to Find Safe Dog Products
Despite the potential dangers of dog chews, your pet still has an evolutionary need to chew. This process relieves anxiety and boredom. It can also help your pet keep their remaining teeth strong.
So, how can you find a good and safe alternative? Here’s what to look for:
- Check the material the toy is made of (hard rubber is the safest)
- Look for potential choking hazards
- Look for “senior” specific toys
The good news is that we have a few awesome options in our shop. For instance, take a look at this Playology Dri-Tech Dental Rope.
Keeping Your Dog’s Teeth Healthy and Strong
Taking care of senior dog teeth is tough work. This is especially true if your dog has had a history of dental issues or a lack of care over time. The good news is that treatment is possible! Speak with your local veterinarian about your concerns.
In the meantime, be careful about the dog chews you buy. Pet-safe chew toys aren’t always what they appear. Gentle chewing toys are a must if your dog is getting older.
Are you struggling to find good safe options? We’ve got you covered. Check out our unique Playology Dental Stick, designed especially for senior pets.