Health | Purina New Zealand

Cavities in dog's teeth

3 mins read

We tend to think that dog’s teeth are different from our own human ones, but in fact they can have many of the same dental health problems. One of these is cavities, which are small holes or weaknesses in the tooth. We explore what cavities in dogs really are, what they look like, how they’re diagnosed and how to prevent them from occurring in your dog. What are cavities in dogs'teeth? Cavities in dog’s teeth are small holes in the tooth caused by decay. They tend to appear as a result of a build-up of bacteria in the dog’s mouth. Once bacteria have started to build up it produces a type of acid, which, if left untreated, eats away at a dog’s teeth and causes a loss of calcium which is normally found in the enamel of its tooth. Once this calcium is lost, the tooth begins to decay and you may start to see small holes or cavities appear. The good news for pet owners is that cavities in dogs are rarer than cavities in human teeth. This is in part because of the way a dog’s teeth are shaped. As humans, we have teeth in our mouth that have a horizontal crown shape, meaning they have flat sides and tops. This shape allows food deposits to naturally sit in and between the teeth, which can then encourage bacterial growth. Most of a dog’s teeth are separate and shaped like a pointy cone. This conical shape makes it harder for food deposits to be retained on the teeth surface, which in turn makes it harder for bacteria to grow. The exception to this is the molar teeth at the back of the mouth. Dogs also have saliva of a more alkaline p H which can help reduce acids and the risk of dog cavities. This being said, bacteria and cavities can still form in your dog’s mouth, so it’s important to keep a good dental health routine and regularly check for any issues.

Health

Dog Dental Chart

3 mins read

Ever wondered what your dog’s teeth look like? Take a look at our canine dental chart to explore dog teeth anatomy, the different types and what they’re used for.

Dog Dental Health Warning Signs

3 mins read

Understanding when or when not to visit the vet can be difficult, especially when dealing with a dog’s dental health. Most people don’t want to see their vet every time they have a small question, but equally, not going at all could mean dental problems go unnoticed. Keep reading to find out some of the dog dental health warning signs you should be looking out for. Bleeding Gums In Dogs If you notice your dog’s gums bleeding we would advise you take them to visit your vet as soon as possible. If the gums are bleeding lightly over a wide area of a dog’s gums, it could be a sign of gum diseases such as gingivitis or periodontal disease. Both diseases can cause discomfort and lead to issues such as weight loss. If your dog’s gums are bleeding heavily it is probably a sign they have cut their gums rather than a sign of dental disease. Dogs can cut their gums on a number of different things, especially when on a walk. Items to watch out for when walking include: • Sharp or splintering sticks • Smashed or cracked glass • Waste plastic • Rocks and stones • Used plastic food cartons • And more If you do notice your dog’s gums bleeding heavily, we recommend you take them to your vet as soon as possible. Once there, your vet will be able to stop the bleeding and help them to recover from the cut. Tooth Loss In Dogs Tooth loss can be a very common issue for older dogs. This is because dental calculus builds over time, and eventually causes teeth to fall out. As this is an issue primarily for senior dogs it shouldn’t be as common in younger dogs. If you have a younger dog and notice their teeth are falling out it could be a sign of something different. If you notice your dog’s tooth has broken off rather than falling out, they could have eaten or chewed something hard like a stone. If this is the case the remaining part of the tooth could still be in your dog’s mouth. This can lead to more serious issues as the tooth could dig further into your dog’s gum; it could also cut other parts of your dog’s mouth. A broken tooth could also lead to a tooth root abscess. A tooth root abscess forms when bacteria is exposed to the root canal of a tooth, usually because of a broken or chipped tooth.

Health

Dog Depression – Symptoms & Treatment

7 mins read

Dogs are capable of a far greater range of emotions than most owners have ever imagined – and that could even stretch to a canine version of depression. If you think your dog is feeling down, find out how to keep them emotionally and mentally healthy and happy. It may surprise you to learn that dogs can suffer from a type of depression – and even more so that it may be more common in the long dark winter months.

Health

Dog Exercise and Staying Healthy

7 mins read

Dog exercises help your dog control their weight and reach their ideal body condition, build energy, and maintain a strong cardiovascular and immune system. And if you join in, you’ll get all those health benefits too! Although for many of us “exercise” and “fun” don’t always go together in the same sentence, for our dog friends, a workout always brings out their happy tail-wagging side. But dog exercise isn’t just for staving off your pet’s boredom. Walking your dog daily is also key to keeping them in shape and healthy, both physically and mentally. Luckily there are lots of fun and easy ways to get the “dog workout” task ticked off every day, but before we get to these top dog exercise ideas, here is what makes an active dog, a happy dog. The benefits of dog exercise Keeping your dog active and well-exercised does more than keeping your pet in shape. Dog exercise has many benefits: • Staves off obesity by burning out excess calories. • Keeps them well behaved as they don’t have to look out for creative ways to keep themselves entertained such as furniture or barking up a storm.

Health

Dog Plaque: All You Need to Know

3 mins read

We all understand that too much plaque can lead to a problem with our own teeth. But did you know dogs with plaque build-up can also suffer from the same kind of conditions? What is dog plaque? Plaque is the sticky film that builds up on both yours’ and your dog’s teeth. This sticky film is made up of bacteria, and it begins when the food dogs eat stays on their teeth. If not cleaned off, these bacteria begin to grow. The more bacteria that grows on your dog’s teeth, the more at risk they are of developing a dental condition. How does dog plaque build-up? Plaque on dog’s teeth begins to build up after your dog has eaten. It does this through a chemical reaction that’s triggered by existing bacteria in the mouth, food and saliva. Once all three meet, the reaction begins to occur and a build-up of plaque begins. Certain foods are more likely to speed up the build-up of plaque on dog teeth compared to other foods. For example, bacteria love carbohydrates from sugar, which means feeding your dog sugary foods could increase the build-up of plaque in their mouth. Eventually this plaque will harden and develop into a substance called tartar. The signs of too much plaque on dog teeth There are a number of different signs to watch out for when examining your dog’s mouth. Does your dog’s mouth display any of the following? • Inflamed gums. • Discoloured teeth. • Loss of teeth. • Bad breath. • Pus inside the mouth. If your dog displays any of the above symptoms you should contact your vet and seek out advice before trying out methods to remove plaque from your dog’s teeth.

Health

Dog Pregnancy and Signs of Labour in Dogs

7 mins read

We can’t think of anything more exciting than finding out your dog is expecting! As dog pregnancy only last for around 2 months, you can look forward to bundles of fur filling your home very soon! When your dog is pregnant, you may find yourself wondering “how do dogs give birth?”. You don’t have to panic as thedue date approaches - dog labours are usually much less dramatic than ours, and your petshould be able to bring thepuppies into the world without any worries. Mum should be more than capable, but keep her company during labour in case your dogruns into any complications. Speak to your vet if you have any concerns about pregnancy in dogs or about your dog giving birth. Their advice should help to put your mind at rest. Here are some helpful tips from our Pet Care Team to help you be as prepared as possible for when your pet becomes a new mum. Preparing your dog for the birth Build a nest Mum will want a private place in your home where theycan relax and give birth to the puppies in peace, so build a ‘nest’in the last two weeks of your dog’s pregnancy. An ideal nest for dogs giving birth is a large cardboard box lined with puppy pads (in case of accidents), and filled with clean blankets, sheets or towels. Make sure the box is big enough for both mum and thelitter to fit comfortably inside, and allow mum room for theirown space if your dogwants it. You’ll also have to make sure the box is tall enough to stop any adventurous puppies escaping! Place the nest in a quiet spot at room temperature, where theywon’t be disturbed and can stay cosy. Adding your dog'sown bedding or toys to the nest (as long as they are clean) can encourage your petto use it, and will make the soon-to-be mumfeel at home before the birth. Have help on hand Your dog’s labour should go smoothly, but it’s useful to have help on hand to keep themcalm and in case your dog runs into any complications. Get hold of your vet's out-of-hours phone number prior to your dog giving birth, as delivery often happens during the night. Let your vet know your dog’s due date (if they don’t know already), so they know when to be on stand-by. If mum does have problems delivering the puppies you may need to take them into the vet, so make sure that you have access to transport. In case mum does need a helping hand, have nail scissors and several clean, dry towels nearby during the birth. If thelitter is a large one, you may also need an extra basket to ensure you have plenty of room for the new born puppies! If you do move the puppies away from mum, you’ll need to help them to stay warm. We recommend using a microwaveable beanie bag instead of a hot water bottle, as their sharp teeth and claws can cause punctures. Know what signs to look out for One of the first signs of impending labour is a drop in mum’s body temperature from 38.5°C to 37°C – labour usually begins around 12-24 hours after that. To know when this happens, take your dog’s temperature twice a day with a rectal thermometer throughout the final week of pregnancy. If you’re unsure how, ask your vet to show you. If you find that taking her temperature is causing your dog stress, then stop. You need to help your dogto stay as calm as possible at this time. During the final week of dog pregnancy, mums-to-be may be a little restless and seclude themselves in a quiet area. A loss of appetite and scrabbling in her bedding is common in the 12-24 hours before theirgoes into labour. Very occasionally, your dog may move the nest that you made for themto another area of the house. If this happens, try not to move it from thepreferred location if possible.

Excessive Dog Chewing

4 mins read

Why is my dog chewing excessively? If your dog is chewing furniture, or excessively chewing their toys, it may be time to review their dental health. Discover possible causes for inappropriate dog chewing below, and learn how to help stop your dog chewing furniture and other items. Why is my puppy chewing on things? Teething is perhaps the most common reason for a puppy chewing. Just like in humans, teething is a stage every puppy has to go through and it can be uncomfortable. Teething is when the adult teeth are emerging and puppies often find that chewing on things helps to relieve the pain. The problem is they don’t yet understand what is and isn’t acceptable to chew on. Our first tip to help with puppy chewing and teething is to provide your puppy with plenty of safe chew toys. If they have plenty of appropriate items they can chew, they are less likely to chew on things such as furniture and cables. It is also important for you to play with your puppy using these toys. This will not only give you time to bond with your new pup but will also teach them that chewing their toys is a positive thing to do. It is important to keep items you do not want chewed out of your puppy’s way while they are going through this teething stage. Things such as electrical cables and favourite shoes should be placed out of reach. This stage usually only lasts for around six months, and your puppy should generally grow out of it. If after this time your dog hasn’t grown out of this type of puppy chewing there may be an underlying condition. Always visit your vet if you are uncertain. Medical causes for dog chewing Another reason for a dog chewing excessively is because of a medical condition. If your dog isn’t getting all the nutrients they need for a complete and balanced diet, they may develop a condition known as ‘pica’. Dogs with this condition tend to compulsively eat non-food substances. This can often be mistaken for a dog chewing issue. Gastrointestinal conditions such as dog gastroenteritis have also been linked to excessive inappropriate chewing. A dog with gastrointestinal conditions may chew things to help relieve the feelings of sickness. If you believe your dog could have either of the above conditions, you should take them to visit their vet for a full diagnosis. Separation anxiety Another common reason for excessive dog chewing is separation anxiety. This type of anxiety affects dogs that feels nervous when their owners leave them in the house alone. The stress can cause a dog to chew furniture and other items. Dogs will often show other signs of separation anxiety at the same time, such as excessive barking, defecation indoors, urination and extreme pacing. The best way to help a dog with separation anxiety overcome this anxiety is to show them that being alone can be positive. Read more about helping a dog with separation anxietyin our handy article. Boredom can cause excessive dog chewing Boredom can be the cause of a number of inappropriate behaviours, such as a dog chewing excessively. Taking your dog out for daily walks and setting time aside to regularly play with your dog can help avoid this kind of behaviour. Your dog should not be frustrated or bored, but stimulated and happy instead. Check out our brain games for dogs if you need a bit of inspiration.

Health

Gum Disease in Dogs

3 mins read

Gum disease in dogs can cause discomfort, dental health problems and, if left untreated, it can lead to deeper issues. Knowing how to spot the signs of gum disease in dogs will help keep the issues at bay and prevent potential long-term health problems. Cause of gum disease in dogs Bacteria is the main cause of gum disease in dogs, also known as periodontal disease or gingivitis. Periodontal disease in dogs, much like in humans, is where bacteria - along with food, saliva, and other particles - forms a sticky film called plaque over the teeth. Your dog's immune system tries to clean up the plaque by releasing enzymes that can break down gum tissue. Periodontal disease in dogs can lead to inflamed gums and destroyed tissue, and if left untreated, further gum disease. Because dogs can’t brush their teeth, they tend to have more plaque, meaning there's more potential for disease. Sometimes it’s easy to miss the early signs of gum disease in dogs, mainly because your dog can’t tell you what’s wrong or may try to hide any pain they have. However, there are signs you can look out for to help keep them in good health. Symptoms of gum disease in dogs You should examine your dog’s gums and mouth regularly for signs of gum disease. Bad breath is the most obvious sign, but look out for reddened, bleeding or swollen gums, crusted yellow-brown tartar or plaque build-up on the teeth and drooling. Other signs can be obvious from your dog's behaviour. Depending on how long you’ve had your dog or how familiar you are with their habits you may notice them having problems picking up food or making noises when they eat. You may also find that they’re leaving blood in their water bowl or on chew toys, or producing more nasal discharge or ropey saliva. Complications of periodontal disease in dogs Although the initial signs might be subtle, there is potential for the symptoms to get worse over time. The bacteria can enter your dog’s bloodstream causing complications and a higher risk of heart, kidney or liver disease. This is why it’s important to not ignore the early signs and discuss with your vet any unusual symptoms you notice. Regular check-ups can also help detect milder symptoms, allowing your vet to intervene before the disease progresses.

Health

Heat Stroke in Dogs: How to Recognise the Symptoms and Act Swiftly

5 mins read

Your dog loves spending the summer with you – there’s so much opportunity to go outside, explore and play. However, should the weather be particularly warm, it’s sensible to consider heat stroke in dogs and the effect the sun might have on your friend. Heat stroke in dogs can occur if they are without shade, ventilation or water, and as with humans, it can be dangerous for their health. It can also occur when they’re out and about with you, for example after vigorous exercise in warm weather, or following stress or overexcitement. What is heat stroke in dogs? Heat stroke or heat exhaustion in dogs refers to a high body temperature that is not caused by underlying illnesses but rather by excessive exposure to environmental factors, mainly hot temperatures. Heat stroke occurs because the dog’s body is unable to bring the temperature down to normal levels through panting alone. Factors that increase heat stroke in dogs Of course you want to avoid any risk of heat stroke, but what should you look out for to keep your dog healthy and happy during the summer months? Factors that can increase the risk of developing heat stroke in dogs include: • Lack of water. • Enclosed space. • Excessive humidity. • Obesity. • Intense exercise. • Old age. • Cardiovascular disease or respiratory disease. • Lack of acclimatisation. What dog breeds have a higher risk of developing heat stroke? Short-faced dog breeds, such as Boxers, Bulldogs, Pugs and Pekingese, and dogs with heavy coats (such as Huskies or Newfoundlands), are at particular risk of heat stroke. But the all types of dogs can suffer from heat exhaustion if the conditions are right. Signs of heat stroke in dogs No matter how carefully you care for your dog, it’s always possible that something unexpected can happen. Here are some signs of heat stroke in dogs to look out for just in case: • Severe panting. • Difficulty breathing (particularly if your dog already has any respiratory problems). • Severe salivating. • Vomiting. • Diarrhoea. • Raised temperature (40.5° C or above). • Blood in his urine. • Nose bleeds (and other bleeding problems). • Ultimately, collapse and coma.

Health

Hip Dysplasia in Dogs

4 mins read

Has your dog been diagnosed with hip dysplasia? Don’t worry as we have put together a quick guide that explains in plain English what the condition is, what is causing it and what you can do to help your dog. What is hip dysplasia in dogs? Hip dysplasia in dogs is a genetic condition in which the hip joints develop abnormally. Puppies are born with structurally normal ball-and-socket hip joints, but within the first few weeks of life the ligaments that support the hip joints become lax. The joints then become less stable and can make slight movements that would not occur in a healthy individual. This instability leads to the development of further structural changes, such as flattening of the ‘ball’ part of the joint. This means the ball and socket do not fit together how they should. Therefore, the two can move out of correct alignment and even lead to slight dislocation. Most pets will be affected by dysplasia in both hip joints and all dogs will develop a degree of osteoarthritis at some point in their lives. Although hip dysplasia is genetic, there are several genes that can lead to this condition and not all pets with these genes develop the disease. Environmental factors can make the problem worse, but they cannot cause the disease unless a predisposing gene was present. Symptoms of hip dysplasia in dogs Hip dysplasia is more common in larger breed dogs, although it can occur in any breed. The condition will usually be diagnosed at 6 to 12 months of age and symptoms will start to appear at different stages, depending on the individual. Watch out for signs such as your dog being a bit unsteady on their feet or having difficulties getting up. Affected dogs will often have more difficulty going up stairs than down them, due to the weight distribution being greater through the back legs as they ascend. Depending on the severity of the condition, these are some of the most common symptoms of hip dysplasia in dogs:

Health

How to Look After Your Dog's Teeth

6 mins read

Did you know that dental problems are the most commonly diagnosed health condition in all dogs over the age of three? Because your dog's teeth and gums are as vulnerable to disease as yours, make sure you give the same care and attention to your dog's dental health as you do to your own. Dental disease in dogs When your four-legged friend has healthy teeth and gums they can get the most out of their food, crunching every delicious kibble as they go, but if their teeth hurt they’ll soon go off their meals and their metabolism will suffer. Poor dental care doesn’t just affect their mouths; the bacteria generated by dental disease could eventually enter your dog’s bloodstream and potentially damage their heart, liver or kidneys. So, as a loving owner, what do you need to look out for to protect your pet’s pearly whites? Plaque Bacteria constantly form in your dog’s mouth and when they mix with with saliva and leftover morsels of food, your dog will get a sticky and colourless film (plaque) collecting on the outside of their teeth, especially their upper pre-molars and molars. It’s important to clean this plaque off dog’s teeth as if it’s left to build up, it can harden to form tartar. Periodontal Disease After 3-5 days of being left untouched, plaque forms another alliance, this time with the minerals in your dog’s saliva. This hardens the plaque and it turns it into tartar, also known as calculus. Tartar can irritate your dog’s gums causing gingivitis, a swelling and reddening of the gums, and can lead to bad breath - something you’re likely to notice quite quickly! Dry dog foods can help scrape away plaque and tartar but you’ll still need to supplement this with some dog dental care. What are the most common dog dental problems?

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