Dental Hygiene: Tooth Care for Dogs
- RFFDMSUK
- Sep 27, 2024
- 2 min read
Updated: Feb 18
A Simple, Nutrition‑Friendly Guide to Your Dog’s Dental Health
Good dental hygiene plays a big role in your dog’s overall wellbeing. While a raw diet can naturally support oral health, it isn’t a complete dental routine on its own. Combining diet with gentle, consistent care helps keep teeth clean and breath fresh.
How Raw Feeding Supports Dental Health
Raw diets often encourage more natural chewing behaviours, which can contribute to cleaner teeth. Many owners also use raw meaty bones as part of their dog’s routine.
Raw Meaty Bones: Nature’s Toothbrush
Owners commonly choose raw meaty bones because they can:
Encourage chewing that helps keep teeth cleaner
Support jaw strength
Offer enrichment and slow eating
They don’t replace brushing, but they can complement a wider dental routine.
Choosing Bones Safely
Selecting bones based on your dog’s size, age, and chewing style is important. Lighter, non–weight‑bearing bones are typically preferred by raw feeders.
Examples owners often use include:
Small dogs & young pups (up to 10kg): chicken necks, wings, feet; duck feet
Medium dogs (10-25kg): duck necks, chicken carcasses, turkey wings
Large dogs (25-40kg): lamb, venison, or goat ribs; poultry carcasses
Very large dogs (40kg+): venison or turkey necks; lamb or goat ribs
Always supervise chewing and balance bone intake with boneless meals as needed.
Dental Products Many Raw Feeders Use
Alongside diet, owners often explore products designed to support everyday oral hygiene. These should be used as part of a balanced routine.
Popular options include:
Where ingredients overlap (e.g., seaweed‑based products), owners typically choose one rather than combining several.
Fresh Breath Treats & Homemade Toothpaste
Some owners enjoy making simple, dog‑friendly dental treats at home.
Mint & Parsley Ice Cubes
1 cup kefir
½ cup chopped mint
½ cup chopped parsley
Blend and freeze for a refreshing, breath‑friendly treat.
Homemade Toothpaste
1 tsp olive oil
1 tsp baking soda
Finely chopped parsley & mint
Use with a dog‑safe toothbrush for gentle cleaning.
Why Brushing Still Matters
Even with raw feeding and bones, brushing remains one of the most effective ways to support dental cleanliness. A few minutes each day can make a noticeable difference over time.
Final Thoughts: A Balanced Approach to Dental Care
Raw diets and bones can support oral health, but they work best alongside brushing.
Supplements and natural dental aids can help maintain freshness and hygiene.
Supervision during bone chewing keeps your dog safe.
A consistent routine supports long‑term dental comfort and wellbeing.
