One in five dog owners never brush their pet’s teeth, study finds
More than one in five dog owners admit they never brush their dogs’ teeth, new research reveals.
The study of 2,000 owners from YoMOVE reveals most dos only get their teeth cleaned on a monthly basis. However, 17% clean their pet’s teeth several times a week.
Nearly a quarter of respondents said their dog actively disliked or even hated getting their teeth brushed. Trying to bite the toothbrush (21%), tensing up (20%), and even running away (16%) were the main reactions dogs have to getting their teeth cleaned.
Some of the main tactics deployed to get their canine to cooperate when brushing their teeth was to bribe them with treats (32%) or distract them (30%), the survey reveal.
Giving their dog dental chews (53%), brushing with dog toothpaste (52%), and using chew toys (36%), are the most common ways people clean their pet’s teeth.
Dr Jayne Laycock, resident vet at YuMOVE, said: “Doggy dental issues are one of the most commonly reported problems at UK vets. Issues occur when plaque and tartar build up on dog’s teeth over time, which is caused by excessive levels of bad bacteria in the mouth.
“While our research shows some people do brush their dog’s teeth and use dental products at home, many of those will only do the job of cleaning away the dirt and grime on the surface of the teeth – but it won’t necessarily tackle the root cause of the problem.”
The survey shows 59% of respondents rate their dog’s dental hygiene as good or very good – with only 7% rating it as bad, or very bad.
In addition, the study found that when people first look at a dog the features they notice first are: faces (43%), eyes (36%), and teeth (24%).
In a bid to get the nation talking about canine dental health, YuMOVE teamed up with TV personalities – including Sara Cox, Nadia Sawalha, Jorgie Porter, and Radzi Chinyanganya – who all took to social media with their pets over the weekend.
Sara Cox, presenter and dog mum to Dolly and Daisy, said: “I think every dog owner knows it’s important to keep their dog’s teeth and mouth clean – but the truth is, few of us really understand how to do that right.”
