Your dog has no teeth now. And yes, that can feel sad at first. But there is good news. A toothless dog can still live a happy and comfortable life.All you need to do is just make a few simple changes at home.
Start With Soft and Safe Food
Food is the biggest change you need to make. Your dog can’t chew like before and so you want meals that are soft and easy to swallow.
You can also try providing wet dog food since it is already soft. You can also soak dry kibble in warm water until it turns mushy. Give it a few minutes and then stir it well.
Cooked foods can work too if your vet says it’s ok. Plain rice and soft chicken are some of the popular choices. Mashed pumpkin can also help some dogs. But keep pieces small and no hard chunks.
And skip bones and hard treats altogether. Those can hurt gums and can also cause choking.
Watch How Your Dog Eats
Some dogs tend to eat food fast which can happen more often when they can’t chew. Try to slow your dog from eating fast.
One way to reduce fast eating is to give your dog food on a flat plate. It is also a good idea to give your dog smaller meals more often as this will increase tummy comfort.
You should also supervise your dog when eating. Look out for any coughing or gagging. And if you notice these symptoms often you should contact your veterinarian. Your dog could need a softer food texture.
Also make sure to give your dog fresh water. It is important for dogs to drink water and even more so when they eat soft food.
Keep the Mouth Clean Even Without Teeth
No teeth does not mean that the dog should not have a mouth care routine. Gums can still get sore and bacteria can also still build up. Bad breath can still show up.
Use a soft cloth or a finger brush. Wipe the gums gently. You can start slow. A few seconds is fine at first.
You can also use a vet approved dog mouth gel. It will help cut germs and also calm gum pain. Ask your vet which one fits your dog.
Pick Toys That Won’t Hurt
Even dogs without teeth will want to play and for this reason you just need toys that are safe.
Select toys that are made of soft rubber. Plush toys are okay too if your dog doesn’t unravel them. Many dogs like to play with rope toys. But you need to be careful with rope toys as it can hurt the gums.
Watch Weight and Mood
Some dogs eat less when they are missing a few teeth. Others eat more though, as soft food is quicker and easier to eat. But you also need to watch their weight.
Feel your dog’s ribs with your hands. You should feel them. They should not stick out. If they lose weight fast, you should adjust their food and talk to the vet.
