Hello, Sheltie Lovers!
I'm Dr. James Anthony, a veterinary dentist with years of experience dedicated to keeping our furry friends' smiles healthy. Today, we’re focusing on a crucial topic for Sheltie owners: maintaining excellent oral health. Due to their unique jaw structure and genetic predispositions, Shelties can face specific oral health challenges. Let’s dive into why this is the case and what you can do to keep your Sheltie’s smile bright and healthy.
Why Shelties Are Prone to Oral Health Challenges
Shelties have a long, narrow muzzle that, while charming, can lead to issues with oral hygiene. This narrow lower jaw can cause improper chewing and plaque buildup on their teeth. Additionally, Shelties often suffer from malocclusions, or misaligned bites, which can make natural mouth cleaning difficult. Plaque that accumulates can harden into calculus over time.
Genetics also play a role. In breeds like Shelties, with narrow gene pools, certain traits, including oral health challenges, can be more prevalent. This highlights the importance of responsible breeding practices to mitigate these risks.
Managing and Maintaining Great Oral Health
To keep your Sheltie’s teeth in top shape, proactive home care is essential. Here’s what you can do:
- Brushing: Regular brushing is the most effective way to manage plaque. Use a pet-friendly toothbrush and toothpaste to make this a routine part of your Sheltie’s care.
- Chew Toys and Dental Diets:These can help reduce plaque buildup. Opt for products designed to promote dental health.
- Dental Treats:Many treats are specifically formulated to improve dental hygiene and can be a tasty addition to your Sheltie’s routine.
One product I highly recommend for maintaining oral health is 1-TDC. It’s simple to use and very palatable for dogs. Here’s how to use it:
- 1-TDC comes in gel cap form. Each cap has two parts: a small heart and a big heart.
- Twist the small heart until it breaks off, releasing a tasty gel.
- Apply the gel directly onto your Sheltie’s upper gums, or feed the capsule as a treat.
The loading dosage is one gel cap per 25 pounds of body weight. Start with this amount for the first month, then reduce to one capsule every other
day. Most dogs love the taste, making it easy to administer.
By following these tips, you can help keep your Sheltie’s mouth healthy. Good dental care at home ensures your furry friend stays happy and healthy. Happy brushing, and here’s to many more smiles with your Sheltie!
1-TDC Oral Health + Mobility Support for Dogs
$32.00
Keep your pet Happy, Active & Comfortable from Head-to-Tail with 1-TDC. This unique supplement is SO effective that it is recommended by TOP Veterinary Experts worldwide to maintain and improve your pet’s health in 4 important areas: Oral Health….… read more
