Can Dog Dental Health Affect Their Mood and  Behavior?

We all love our paw-pals, and the toughest part is that they speak zero English (or us speaking zero Woofish?). So, if they aren’t feeling well, this language barrier makes itself felt. We have to keep our eyes open to any change in dog behavior, especially when it comes to dental health. Unfortunately, illnesses do not just affect their fangs. They influence their habits and mood. At HealthyWoof, we know that catching potential problems early is crucial, so here are some of the things signaling your fluffball is in pain.

Dog Behavior Change You Have to Notice

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Just like us, pups suffer from dog gum disease, toothache, infections, and other conditions causing pain, discomfort, and stress. And since they can’t inform us on what’s bothering them, a sudden behavior change in dog should be taken as a banner that reads “Something’s wrong with me, woof!” They may show it through:

• Hiding. Whether it’s a dog gum disease or a toothache, hiding more than usual means your pet is having a tough time. Watch them and ensure to make an appointment with the vet ASAP.
• Irritation. In the middle of dog teeth cleaning, you may notice your-legged buddy experiencing dental pain as you touch their face. Red flag!
• Aggression. We all have bad days, including your mutt. However, if your fido is highly aggressive, chances are it is time to start dog gum disease treatment while your dog oral hygiene needs a rethink. 
• Avoidant. There’s no doubt your animal enjoys affection from its hooman. However, if the woofer suddenly avoids your pets, take it also as a manifestation of a problem.
• Lethargy. If in discomfort or pain, mutts lose their energy, being reluctant to stay active, play, or even interact with other canines or owners. It’s dog gum disease home remedy o’clock!
• Crying. Some breeds happen to be quite dramatic, and it is totally fine. However, if it’s happening more than usual, and your pet is crying, whining, and howling, contact your doc for a dog oral hygiene products prescription.
• Pawing at the face. If it hurts, canines instinctively paw at the face. When it happens, do not hesitate to talk to a specialist. 

Struggle to chew/eat. If a hound suddenly avoids chewing or eating in general (even the yumm-yummiest snacks), check their mouth health. In the HealthyWoof catalog, you’re welcome to browse the best dog oral hygiene products. They work well in tandem with vets’ prescriptions.

Photo by Martin Krchnacek from Unsplash

Prevention Is Key!

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In our blog, we strongly advocate for regular mouth examinations as part of a pet’s healthcare routine. Take your good boy to the vet so a professional can detect dental conditions as early as possible. You’re welcome to check out the pro-level dog teeth cleaning cost so your buddy has those regularly. Plus, do not forget about at-home dental care using the best dog teeth cleaning products to promote oral health.

Do you see mood and conduct changes in a tail-wagger? Is it aggression, reluctance to eat, or lethargy? Time to call the doc! But before that, prevention is the best cure. So next time you notice any of these symptoms, consider checking their teeth. With a little care and in touch with a professional who knows how to treat dog gum disease or other issues, you’ll help your woofer keep the pearly whites it deserves.