Most people prefer owning a dog as a pet because of how pure and loyal these creatures are. It has been rightfully said that life without a dog seems to have diminished once someone is used to this animal’s companionship.
On that note, dogs are the most preferred pets in the US. Around 65.1 million households own one. Some even own more than one canine of different breeds. Of these, Brachycephalic dog breeds have become extremely popular in recent years.
Dogs belonging to this breed, like Pugs, French bulldogs, and Shih Tzus, are characterized by their flat faces and short muzzles. One can easily find a dog from this breed in a US household, despite its predisposition to health problems. These span across respiratory, spinal, and dental disorders.
In this article, we will focus on the latter. Read more to understand the most common dental issues Brachycephalic dogs suffer from and how to prevent them.
Malocclusions
Also known as a ‘bad bite,’ malocclusion is a condition where the set of upper teeth does not align with the lower set. Even humans can suffer from malocclusion; in dogs, the Brachycephals are the most vulnerable.
This has to do with their altered facial structure. If not taken care of promptly, malocclusion can cause endodontic pulp disease and oral trauma. Dental surgery may be required to correct this situation.
Crowded Teeth
This problem stems directly from the one above. Due to a shorter maxilla, Brachycephalic dogs often have less space for all their teeth to erupt comfortably.
This becomes a problem because these dogs also have the same number of teeth as the others. As a result, their mouths appear to be overcrowded because of inadequate space.
Rotated or Missing Teeth
Again, the short muzzle and maxilla of Brachycephalic dogs do not offer enough room for tooth eruption. In some cases, a dog’s teeth may fail to erupt at all, remaining within the jaw only.
This is a serious issue as unerupted teeth can lead to the formation of cysts on the jaw. Moreover, some teeth may erupt but could tilt or turn a bit on their axis. This is what is known as rotated teeth.
Even this problem causes more damage than merely the aesthetics. A few complications of rotated teeth include food blockage between teeth, compromised contact among surrounding teeth, and gingival damage.
Periodontal Disease
This condition is a gum disease in which bacterial infection leads to tooth decay. The crowded teeth and thick gums of Brachycephalic dogs make them extremely vulnerable to periodontal disease.
The incorrect teeth alignment can make it difficult to remove accumulated plaque and tartar. This disease is a progressive one that can cause tooth or bone loss and gum recession.
How to Prevent Dental Issues Among Brachycephalic Dogs
As per the Humane Society Veterinary Medical Association (HSVMA), there are currently 24 dog breeds that can be called Brachycephalic. If you own one, here are a few ways in which you can keep your pooch safe from dental issues.
Regular Cleaning
Regular dental cleaning for dogs is crucial in general. This is particularly important for Brachycephals who are prone to gum infections and teeth misalignment.
Brachycephalic are normally considered to be good-tempered dogs, so there should be no issues in brushing their teeth with a pet toothpaste. However, things can get messy or uncooperative at times.
A better alternative would be a toothbrush wipe that is easy to use and often natural. According to Jax & Cali, such wipes come pre-moistened with natural enzymes that fight tartar and plaque. All that is needed is two fingers to fit the wipes over and it becomes a breeze to clean a dog’s teeth.
Dental Toys and Treats
As per VCA Animal Hospitals, the simple act of chewing can prevent plaque buildup. This is why dental treats and toys are another way to keep your Brachycephalic dog’s dental health on point.
Consider giving your dog a few dental treats to encourage chewing and saliva formation. If you feel like your pooch is consuming their treats too quickly, give them a non-edible chew toy. At least 30 minutes of gnawing on such toys in a day can help prevent tooth infections and fractures.
Healthy Diet
Studies regarding the link between a dog’s diet and their dental health have been conducted since the 1930s. The Brekke Veterinary Clinic states that dogs fed with dry food usually have better dental health than those that live on canned food.
Other studies discovered that the size of the kibble also mattered. This means dogs fed with increasing kibble size were at a greater risk of developing dental disease.
It is important to follow the diet recommended by your pooch’s vet. A general rule of thumb is to avoid canned or home-cooked meals. Brachycephalic dogs must be fed dry and raw food or bones.
Also, foods containing high levels of Vitamin A and folate are good for dental health. These would include leafy greens, fresh liver, and eggs.
The purpose of this article is not to discourage pet parents from owning a Brachycephalic dog. If anything, we hope to help you understand the struggles of these adorable canines.
If you own one, apply the tips discussed in this article. This will significantly reduce the chances of your dog developing dental disease. As for pain or discomfort resulting from teeth misalignment, the vet may recommend an extraction or orthodontics.
