Studies show that dogs and their people actually look alike. But if your dog has red gums and yellow teeth, this idea might terrify you! In all seriousness, if you notice that your dog has red gums, consider yourself lucky. Because caught early, it’s super easy to reverse this problem right at home without the need for a professional (read, expensive) cleaning!
What Do Normal Dog Gums Look Like?
It’s not all sunshine and belly rubs when you’re a dog parent. There are a few undesirable tasks we need to do, and regularly inspecting their gums is one of them. This will help you spot any problems before they snowball.
For normal dog gums, think pink. Any range of pink is considered normal, from pale pink to bubble gum pink. The gums should also look and feel moist. White, yellow or red dog gums or gums that are dry warrant a trip to the vet.
Are black gums normal?
Several dog breeds have naturally black gums, such as Chow Chows, Shar Peis, and Pekingese. This is a natural variation in pigmentation due to extra melanin. However, if your dog’s gums suddenly turn black and they show other signs of gum disease or illness, you’ll want to make an appointment with the vet.
Keep in mind the age of your dog too. Puppies generally have pink gums that will GRADUALLY darken with age. Any dog can have pigmentation of their gums, so you need to know what’s normal for your pup and do those gum inspections every few weeks.
Why Are My Dog’s Gums Red?
Red dog gums are almost always a sign of gingivitis, which is inflammation of the gums. Gingivitis is the FIRST of four stages of periodontal (gum) disease and is a common problem in dogs. In fact, it’s estimated that 8 in 10 dogs have gum disease by age 3.
(Gulp.) If you’re worried your dog is going to make you hold a "shaming sign" for their social media that reads "I don’t brush my dog’s teeth," relax. There’s an easy way to help prevent and even REVERSE dog gingivitis without brushing. Read on ...
First, How Does Dog Gingivitis Start?
Gingivitis occurs from plaque and tartar buildup. The bacteria in these substances cause red dog gums and inflammation of the gums. Just like in humans, food particles get into the crevices of the teeth and gums after meals, causing bacteria to stick to the teeth. That forms plaque!
Fortunately, plaque is soft and sticky, making it easy to remove at home. But word to the wise: plaque will quickly calcify (harden) into tartar if it isn’t removed. To remove tartar, a professional cleaning is needed, which is reason #84 to not be a procrastinator!
Are all dogs at risk for gingivitis?
Yes! Any dog can get gingivitis, and EVERY dog needs dental care at home. However, small dogs are more susceptible to this condition due to teeth overcrowding. Plaque is easier to hide in those small spaces.
Signs of Gingivitis in Dogs
Gingivitis in dogs can creep up on you, which is why it’s so important to regularly look at your dog’s gums and be on the lookout for these signs:
- Dog bad breath (this is often the first thing that pet parents notice)
- Thin, red line along the gumline
- Swollen gums
- Yellow dog teeth
As dog gingivitis advances into the more serious stages of gum disease, you may notice:
- Bleeding gums
- Heavy yellow or brown tartar buildup
- Excessive drooling
- Loose teeth
- Receding gums
- Difficulty eating (dropping food, refusing food, only chewing on one side of the mouth)
Ignoring the problem will only make it worse, and as gum disease advances, so will the pain that accompanies it. That’s because, in the later stages, the gums and tooth structures are separating from each other.
As bacteria from infected gums flow throughout the bloodstream, it can affect the dog’s vital organs and take years (yes, years!) off their lives. Practicing good oral care at home is one of the best things we can do to improve their chances of a happier, longer life.
How to Help Stop Gingivitis in Dogs at Home
First things first – make sure your dog is getting in for their annual exams, which should include the veterinarian looking inside your dog’s mouth. This will confirm that your dog is still in the gingivitis stage without needing to have tartar removed professionally. Then it’s time to rock a home routine and get your dog on the path to better dental health!
If you’re new to doggie dental care and you want to jump in with both feet and try toothbrushing, we recommend the Oxyfresh all-in-one Pet Dental Kit, available in large size or try-me size, with everything you need to get your furry sidekick’s smile in shape. (Note: If you already know that brushing is SO not for you, feel free to skip ahead – we’ve got ya covered.)
Exclusive kit contains everything you need to help red gums in dogs
- Oxyfresh Pet Dental Water Additive – freshens dog’s breath every time they drink. Just add to water bowl! Perfect for daily breath maintenance or for those days when you don’t want to brush.
- Oxyfresh Premium Pet Toothpaste – this dog toothpaste works insanely fast to help stop plaque & bad breath right at the source. Flavor-free so dogs won’t hate the taste!
- Super Soft Finger Brushes – The soft silicone feels so good on tender, red dog gums and makes maneuvering around their back molars easy-peasy. More convenient than a traditional handled toothbrush!
No-Fuss, No Brush: Introducing the Easy Way to Care for Dog Gums
Don’t have the time or energy (or wrestling moves) to brush your dog’s teeth? We get it! And you’re not alone: 70% of dog parents never brush their dog’s teeth. But don’t worry. You can do the next best thing for your pup’s smile with Oxyfresh Dog Dental Care Water Additive, available now at Walmart. This genius solution fights plaque and red dog gums every time dogs drink their water. It's so much easier than brushing and uber effective!
Why Oxyfresh is the most popular dog water additive on the planet
- Cleans dog teeth and helps fight plaque: Finally say good-bye to dog and cat bad breath with our fast-acting pet bad breath treatment for dogs and cats.
- Skip the brushing: That’s right, no more wrestling with pet toothpaste and toothbrushes; just add a capful of our cat and dog dental care liquid to their water bowl each day – it’s that easy!
- Free of flavors: No weird mint, meat or green tea flavors. Even the pickiest pooches won’t know it’s in their water.
- Trusted brand, USA made: Oxyfresh has been supporting pets’ goofy grins for over 30 years. Veterinarians recommend us, and dog parents love us!
Don’t leave your doggie’s gum health to chance. Pick up a bottle of Oxyfresh 24oz Dog Dental Care Water Additive during your next Walmart run or get it online.
It’s Fire! (But Don’t Just Take Our Word for It)🔥🔥
@honeydewthedachshund:
“Fresh breath, clean teeth, and no toothbrush battles!”
Say Hello to Healthier Gums!
Give your adorable dog a best-in-show kind of smile with Oxyfresh Dog Dental Care Water Additive. It helps to keep your dog’s gums healthy while giving YOU an easy, hassle-free daily dog dental routine. Seriously, just add to your dog’s water bowl and you’re good to go. It’s just that easy!
Remember: the care you put in now could increase your dog’s lifespan down the road by several years. Now THAT’S cause for a celebratory belly rub!
