How dirty is a dogs mouth?

You've probably heard the old myth that a dog's mouth is cleaner than a human's. Dogs do lick their wounds, and they rarely get infected. However, according to the pet-info website Paw Nation, it's not because dog saliva is like antiseptic. read more

Dr. William Craig is the former president of the Texas Academy of Veterinary Practice. He says that dogs lick germs off themselves, and from things they eat off the ground. “Dog breath” isn’t just a foul odor. It’s a combination of bacteria, infection and inflammation. Dr. read more

In light of a recent news story about a woman nearly dying from an infection sourced to her dog’s saliva, “dog licking” is in the news. Some people say that a dog’s mouth is cleaner than a human’s mouth is, but the mouths of both species certainly have what is called “natural flora”. read more

Don’t worry, brushing your dog’s teeth isn’t difficult if you follow Dr. Antin’s simple steps. Where the issues arise is when a vet finds a mouth full of inflamed gums and decaying teeth. This can mean your pet is experiencing the discomfort of dental disease, which will require professional care to treat. read more