Dogs can't say anything when something goes wrong, and often they don't even understand that they might have dental problems.
But humans can - and that's why pet owners should be very careful with the signs of their pets' health problems, including dental health.
Here are a few important signs that your dog might be experiencing dental issues.
If your dog's breath is unusually bad, like a strong, unpleasant odor, it could be a sign of dental issues. Normal dog breath shouldn't smell too foul.
Healthy dog teeth are usually white. If you see yellow or brown stains or tartar buildup on their teeth, it may indicate a problem.
Excessive drooling, especially if it's new or unusual for your dog, can be a sign of dental pain or discomfort.
If your dog is having difficulty eating, like chewing on one side of their mouth or dropping food, dental problems could be the cause.
If your dog frequently paws at their mouth or seems to be in discomfort there, it's a sign to pay attention to.
Check your dog's gums. Healthy gums are pink. If they're red, swollen, or bleeding, there might be dental issues.
Dental pain can make dogs irritable or less active. If your dog suddenly becomes grumpy or less playful, it's worth investigating.
Dogs may shake their heads to try to alleviate dental pain. If your dog does this often, it's a signal.
While these signs don't always mean dental issues, a couple of them combined can accurately predict that something goes wrong.