Let’s be honest—owning a cat is amazing, but the litter box situation? Not so much. I love my furball, but I do not love the daily scatter of litter outside the box, the mystery pee puddles, or the way the smell sometimes lingers longer than it should. If you’ve ever stepped barefoot onto stray litter (worst sensation ever), you know the struggle.
After some trial and error (and a few too many deep cleans), I finally found a trio of simple products that actually helped me keep things tidy without stressing my cat out.
A Covered Litter Box This was a game-changer. My cat was skeptical at first, but once she realized it was her own private bathroom, she was all in. The cover helps keep litter inside where it belongs and contains some of the smell. Bonus: it’s way less of an eyesore in the corner of the room.
Product Available on Amazon
A Litter Box Mat I used to sweep every day—no joke. Now, the mat catches most of the litter that would’ve ended up on the floor (or in my bed, because cats). It’s like a welcome mat, but for paws. Shake it out once a week and boom—way less mess.
Low-Stick Litter This one surprised me. I didn’t realize how much regular litter was clumping to the bottom of the box until I switched. The low-stick kind makes scooping a breeze and keeps the box fresher, longer. Less scraping, less stink, happier human.
Product Available on Amazon
If your cat’s litter box setup is driving you up the wall, try this little combo. It made a huge difference for me—and my floor.
***
Please note, this article contains affiliate links, where I will receive compensation if you buy the product, without any extra cost to you.
***
You should also note that the information provided is for educational and informational purposes only. Although I am a veterinary professional, this blog should not be used as a substitute for professional veterinary advice.
That being said, it can be challenging to distinguish between an ethical breeder and one that is merely breeding for profit. For this reason, you need to look for red flags. Just like you would end a relationship over a red flag, you should do the same with a breeder.
Here are some red flags to avoid.
Breeders who don’t do any health testing.
Good breeders want to ensure that their puppies are of the highest quality, and they aren’t afraid to spend the money to prove that! They do as much health testing as required for the breed, so that you know that you are getting high-quality puppies.
They are also unlikely to register their dogs.
Whether you are looking for registered dogs, choosing parents who are registered helps you feel better about the puppies you are selecting. You will know that they come from good stock.
Puppies that end up in pet stores are often from backyard breeders.
No reputable breeder would sell their puppies to pet stores to get into the hands of anyone who wants a puppy! They will want to take the time to ensure that they put their puppies into the right hands.
Photo Courtesy of Canva
Fancy websites should also be avoided.
Many websites are full of puppies for sale, many of which are bred without any thought other than making some money!
The same goes for breeders who sell puppies before they are eight weeks old.
Puppies need time with their mom and other puppies before being sold. In fact, some smaller dogs are kept with their parents until they are twelve weeks old.
They won’t allow you to visit them in their environment.
You can learn a great deal about puppies by observing their parents. If you aren’t able to at least see the mom, you might want to be wary of the puppies.
You should be able to meet the mother of the puppies, at the very least, before choosing one. Getting to know and meet the mom is a great way to learn more about your puppies. If you can’t see her, you might want to avoid them.
Don’t trust those who breed for smaller sizes.
Many fad breeders breed “teacups,” which actively promote runts. These smaller dogs may not be as healthy as their standard relatives. They may struggle to keep their blood sugar levels stable, which can lead to seizures and other health issues.
The same can be said for those who breed for special colors.
If the breed that you are looking at doesn’t have specific colors, you should avoid getting those puppies. These breeders attempt to breed “flashy” and “rare” colors solely because they can earn more money doing so.
You may also want to avoid mixed-breed puppies.
True and ethical breeders will not want to breed two different breeds together.
Photo Courtesy of Canva
Though you may be looking for something in particular when it comes to your next dog, the truth is that you have to be careful when buying puppies. There are many red flags that you should avoid. You should avoid buying puppies from dogs that are not registered or those that haven’t undergone any health testing. It is a good idea to stay away from pet stores, as well as fancy websites. You should also avoid some of the fads that are popular, such as different colors, smaller sizes, and mixed-breed dogs that are sold as purebreds!
***
Please note, the information provided is for educational and informational purposes only. Although I am a veterinary professional, this blog should not be used as a substitute for professional veterinary advice.
If your pet is experiencing a medical problem or concern, please contact a veterinary health professional immediately.
Though most people think about puppies and dogs when they want to get their first pet, the truth is that cats can make excellent companions. They can provide hours of entertainment. They can be good at cuddling, but they are just as happy roaming around the house on their own. Even better, they aren’t as needy as dogs, so you can go away for several hours without worrying about your dog going to the bathroom in your home.
That being said, if you are a new cat owner, you may be unsure about caring for one. Here are some tips to help.
Your new cat should have his or her own space (or at least a place to get away from everyone else).
You may want to provide your cat with a safe place to eat where they won’t be bothered. Cats also love to be up high, so if you can get a cat tree or other areas where he or she can get away when needed.
A scratching post is also necessary.
Cats need to scratch, and if you don’t have anything for him or her to scratch, your cat will scratch your furniture. It is much better to have a scratching post or cardboard boxes than deal with ruined furniture.
Cats don’t drink as much as they should, so make sure that you keep an eye on how much your cat drinks.
It’s always a good idea to have multiple bowls of water spread throughout your home to ensure your cat is getting enough fluids. You may also want to consider getting a fountain, as most people prefer to drink running water rather than standing water.
You will want to feed your cat food that is best suited for them.
Most people believe that all cats require only dry food, which they leave out all the time. They even opt for the cheapest food available. However, that could be a mistake.
In fact, dry food leads to obesity. Instead, you should feed your cat canned food. Pate-style food has fewer carbohydrates, which helps your cat stay at a healthy weight. A cat needs one 5.5-ounce can of food a day.
We recommend Friskee’s pate-style wet food to help with your cat’s water consumption. It is available on Amazon and Chewy.
Product Available on Amazon and Chewy.
It is always a good idea to have more litter boxes than you think.
You should have at least one more litter box than the number of cats that you have. For one cat, you should have at least two. For two cats, you should have at least three.
These litter boxes should be spread throughout the house. You may want one in the basement and one in the central area of the house.
Ensure that you have a veterinarian you can trust.
You should never get a pet without having someone you can call in an emergency. To do this, you should have your cat checked at least once a year and keep them up to date on vaccines. Your regular veterinarian may also recommend an emergency clinic where you can go when they are closed.
Photo Courtesy of Canva
Most new cat owners are unsure about where to start. However, if you ensure that your cat has a space of their own, where they can retreat when needed, you are off to a good start. You also want to ensure that you purchase a scratching post, a cat tree (if possible), and extra litter boxes. Good food is also essential for good health! You should also have a veterinarian that you can call as you begin your journey of cat ownership.
***
Please note, this article contains affiliate links, where I will receive compensation if you buy the product, without any extra cost to you.
***
It is also important that you understand that the information provided is for educational and informational purposes only. Although I am a veterinary professional, this blog should not be used as a substitute for professional veterinary advice.
If your pet is experiencing a medical problem or concern, please contact a veterinary health professional immediately.
If you’re a pet owner, you know the struggle of keeping your home free from pet hair, dirt, and dander. It can feel like no matter how often you clean, the fur keeps piling up. That’s why many people end up looking for the best pet-friendly vacuum to make their lives easier. With so many options available, two popular choices tend to come up in conversations: the Shark Navigator Lift-Away Professional and the Dyson V11 Animal Cordless Vacuum. Both are great options, but they cater to slightly different needs.
So, how do you decide which one is right for you?
The Shark Navigator Lift-Away Professionalis a well-loved upright vacuum that brings a lot of power to the table. Its lift-away technology allows you to detach the canister, making it super easy to clean stairs, upholstery, and other hard-to-reach areas. The vacuum features a large dustbin and a HEPA filter, making it perfect for those with allergies, as it traps 99.9% of dust and allergens. This vacuum also has powerful suction, so it’s great for homes with multiple pets that shed a lot. Plus, it’s generally more affordable compared to some other pet-specific vacuums on the market.
Product Available on Amazon
On the other hand, the Dyson V11 Animal Cordless Vacuum is a high-end cordless option designed specifically for homes with pets. One of its standout features is its powerful suction and smart technology that adjusts the vacuum’s suction power based on the floor type. Whether you’re vacuuming hardwood, carpet, or tile, the V11 will automatically optimize performance, making it incredibly efficient. Plus, the Dyson V11 is lightweight, making it easy to move around the house or even take up stairs without much hassle. Its larger dustbin and longer battery life (up to 60 minutes of cleaning on a full charge) make it a top choice for anyone looking for more flexibility and power in a vacuum.
Product Available on Amazon
When it comes to comparing the two, it really comes down to your preferences. If you’re looking for a budget-friendly, versatile option that gives you the convenience of a lift-away canister, the Shark Navigator is a solid choice. It’s excellent for a thorough clean on all surfaces and is especially great for people who need a traditional upright vacuum.
However, if you want something more high-tech, lightweight, and cordless, the Dyson V11 Animal is hard to beat. It’s ideal for those who want the freedom of cord-free cleaning with the added benefit of intelligent floor detection. It’s perfect for quick cleanups and homes where mobility and convenience are key.
So, which one should you choose? If you’re on a budget but still want solid performance for pet hair and allergens, the Shark Navigator Lift-Away Professional is a great option. But if you’re willing to invest a bit more for advanced features, ease of use, and the convenience of a cordless design, the Dyson V11 Animal is likely your best bet. Either way, both are excellent choices for keeping your home fur-free and fresh.
***
Please note, this article contains affiliate links, where I will receive compensation if you buy the product, without any extra cost to you.
***
You should also note that the information provided is for educational and informational purposes only. Although I am a veterinary professional, this blog should not be used as a substitute for professional veterinary advice.
If your pet is experiencing a medical problem or concern, please contact a veterinary health professional immediately.
I recently wrote an article about why you should look for ethical breeders instead of just backyard breeders. If you haven’t had a chance to read it, you can check it out right here.
Once you decide to use an ethical breeder, it is time to find one. Here are some tips to help you find the puppy you want from an ethical breeder.
These breeders will want to ask YOU questions about your background and may even request veterinarian references.
Backyard breeders, on the other hand, are likely to be willing to sell a puppy to anyone who wants it. If you show up with cash, you could be going home with your new puppy.
If you find an ethical breeder, they will be more likely to help match you up with the right dog.
To them, it is more essential to pick a puppy that matches your lifestyle than to meet your preferences for sex and color. They will help you with that, but if they find a puppy that would work well for you and your family, they may recommend that you consider this opportunity.
They may even ask for references because they want to ensure that their puppies are going to the right homes.
Many breeders want to show off their litters to potential buyers.
If you are looking for an ethical breeder, you will want to be able to stop by and see how the puppies are doing. Although puppies can be messy, they should look clean and healthy when you visit. You should also ensure that the mother appears healthy.
They are proud of the dogs and puppies they have and will work to ensure that the puppies they sell are ready to go!
Many breeders spend a significant amount of time with their puppies, gaining extensive knowledge about them. They often start training and socializing them, so that they are not fearful in the future. They quickly learn which ones are suited for pets and which ones work well in other types of homes.
Photo Courtesy of Canva
So, when you decide that you want a dog, they will ask you what you are looking for so that they can match you up with the right dog for your family and lifestyle.
If you are more active and looking for a dog to take on hikes, you will need a different dog than one that will lie beside you while you work and watch television.
Long-time breeders may have a waiting list.
If you find a breeder with a waiting list, they have likely produced a high volume of quality puppies, which brings people back for more. Although you do not need to find a breeder that has been doing it for years, you can feel better knowing that many people have been coming back for more puppies.
You may also be required to sign a contract when you purchase a puppy.
In the contract, they may want to know what you plan to do with your dog, whether it will be a show dog or a pet. The breeder may require you to spay or neuter your pet at a certain age, because they don’t want to support backyard breeders. Most breeders will have a clause where they will want you to return the dog to them, instead of getting rid of him or her.
Photo Courtesy of Canva
It can be challenging to find a quality and ethical breeder because there are numerous backyard breeders. However, if you find a breeder who is dedicated to his or her breed, as well as his or her dogs and puppies, you have likely found a good breeder.
These breeders spend a lot of time with their puppies, and they will do whatever they can to ensure that you get the right one for you and your family (as well as your lifestyle). That being said, you may find yourself on a waiting list because a good breeder often has people waiting to find the right puppy!
***
Please note, the information provided is for educational and informational purposes only. Although I am a veterinary professional, this blog should not be used as a substitute for professional veterinary advice.
If your pet is experiencing a medical problem or concern, please contact a veterinary health professional immediately.
The simple truth is that most cats don’t drink as much water as they should. And as they age and develop an illness, they may need to consume even more water.
Many owners don’t ever see their cat drinking. In fact, when they do, a problem may already exist. Your cat may be drinking excessively and needs to see a veterinarian.
For this reason, ensureyour cat is drinking enough water. Here are some ways to encourage your cat to drink even more water.
Change their water every day.
Cats are more likely to drink clean water, so it is essential to change it daily, even if it appears untouched.
Have multiple bowls throughout the house.
The more opportunities that your cat has to drink, the more likely he or she will. So, find places throughout your home where you can place water bowls. That way, no matter where your cat is, fresh water is easily accessible.
Photo Courtesy of Canva
If your cat isn’t drinking out of his or her current water bowl, you may want to try others.
Many cats are finicky when it comes to their food and water bowls. You may need to try a few types before finding the one that they will use regularly.
In fact, you may want to try a water fountain.
Cats love drinking out of the sink and other places where water runs. For this reason, water fountains are often used to encourage them to drink more. Running water can bring cats to the fountain, and then once they are there, they are likely to drink.
Pet Cube offers a cat fountain to ensure that your cats stay as hydrated as possible. It purifies the water by removing bacteria, parasites, and other harmful pathogens, ensuring clean and safe hydration, just like you would want for yourself.
There are also plenty of options on Amazon and Chewy, if you would prefer to go that route.
Another effective way to ensure your cat is drinking enough is by switching to canned food.
The truth is that most cats don’t need to eat dry food at all. A canned diet is not only good for weight control, but it also helps them stay hydrated.
We recommend Friskee’s pate-style wet food to help with your cat’s water consumption. It is available on Amazon and Chewy.
Product Available on Amazon and Chewy.
Even better, you may be able to add additional water to your cat’s food.
Some owners wet down the dry food in order to help hydrate their cats. If your cat only eats wet food, you can still add some water to it as a way to increase your cat’s fluid intake.
You could also give them juice from tuna or canned chicken to increase the amount of fluids that they drink.
Tuna and canned chicken have a high water content, which can be beneficial for those who aren’t drinking enough water daily.
Photo Courtesy of Canva
Unfortunately, most cats don’t drink enough water in a day. In fact, most pet parents who come into the veterinary clinic don’t see their cat drinking at all! For this reason, you should do everything possible to ensure your cat is getting enough water every day.
You can do this by refreshing their water every day. Cats are more likely to drink fresh water than water that has been sitting out for a few days! You should also have it easily accessible by placing multiple bowls throughout the house. A fountain may encourage your cat to drink!
If that isn’t working, you may want to switch to canned food instead of dry. You can also add water to both forms of food to help your cat get enough fluids every day.
***
Please note, this article contains affiliate links, where I will receive compensation if you buy the product, without any extra cost to you.
***
You should also note that the information provided is for educational and informational purposes only. Although I am a veterinary professional, this blog should not be used as a substitute for professional veterinary advice.
If your pet is experiencing a medical problem or concern, please contact a veterinary health professional immediately.
If you’re a dog parent, you’re also—like it or not—a professional poop picker-upper. It’s just part of the deal. You’ve probably found yourself doing the awkward poop bag hand dance while your dog takes their sweet time in the middle of a public park. Or maybe you’ve experienced the soul-crushing horror of realizing you forgot a bag after the deed has been done. We’ve all been there!
Picking up after your dog isn’t exactly glamorous, but it’s necessary. Not only for public courtesy, but also for health reasons—dog waste can carry bacteria and parasites that aren’t great for other pets (or humans). The good news? With the right tools, this daily duty can be way less gross and a lot more manageable.
Here are three simple products that make cleanup quicker, cleaner, and slightly less icky:
Pooper Scooper
A pooper scooper is the unsung hero of backyard cleanup. If you’ve got a yard, this tool is a game-changer. No bending, no plastic bags around your hand—just a quick scoop and done. It keeps you (and your nose) at a safe distance and makes regular cleanup way easier.
Product Available on Amazon
Poop Bags
Yes, the humble poop bag. But not all bags are created equal. Go for thick, leak-proof ones with easy-open tops (because struggling with a bag in the wind while your dog pulls on the leash should be an Olympic sport). Bonus points if they’re biodegradable—you get to keep the planet a little cleaner while cleaning up your dog’s mess. Keep a roll stashed everywhere: in your coat pocket, car, and next to the front door.
Product Available on Amazon
Gloves
If you’re the squeamish type—or you’ve ever had a poop bag betrayal—you know the importance of backup. Disposable gloves can be a lifesaver, especially for yard cleanups or dealing with extra-messy situations. Keep a box in the garage or near your dog supplies for quick access. You’ll feel way more confident (and a little less grossed out).
Product Available on Amazon
It’s Not Glamorous—But It Can Be Easy
Let’s be real: no one likes picking up poop. But it’s part of the job when you love a dog. With the right tools and a little prep, it doesn’t have to be a daily hassle—or something you dread.
So grab that scooper, stock up on bags, and maybe keep some gloves handy. Your dog does their part (whether they want to or not)—now you can handle cleanup like a pro.
***
Please note, this article contains affiliate links, where I will receive compensation if you buy the product, without any extra cost to you.
***
You should also note that the information provided is for educational and informational purposes only. Although I am a veterinary professional, this blog should not be used as a substitute for professional veterinary advice.
If your pet is experiencing a medical problem or concern, please contact a veterinary health professional immediately.
The truth is that many people assume their dogs are a healthy weight when they are truly a few pounds (or more) overweight. Most people think that dogs should look a certain way, and when they are a healthy weight, they look skinny. In fact, some owners get told that their dogs need to gain weight when their weight is really where it should be.
Because of that, you need to understand what is at risk if you don’t keep your dog at a healthy weight.
So, what kinds of problems are you looking at when it comes to overweight dogs?
Overweight dogs are more likely to suffer from the following:
Diabetes mellitus
Heart disease
High blood pressure
Pain in the joints, which can turn into arthritis as your dog ages
In fact, arthritis and joint deterioration can happen faster when your dog is overweight.
Urinary tract infections and bladder stones
Complications from surgery
So, how can you tell if your dog is overweight?
Here are some signs that your dog weighs more than he or she should.
His or her silhouette.
When your dog is standing still, he or she should have a waistline. His or her body should indent on the side instead of being straight or sticking out in the abdominal area. You also want to see the belly tucks up, instead of hanging to the ground.
You can feel your dog’s ribs.
You are going to want to be able to feel the ribs easily. Though there may be a little padding, if there is a lot of padding (or you can’t feel the ribs at all), your dog needs to lose some weight.
Your dog may not be as active as normal.
Though your dog may be slowing down as he or she ages, the truth is that he or she should have plenty of energy. Your dog should continue to want to take walks on a daily basis, as well as play ball in the yard.
Why is my dog gaining weight?
There are many reasons why your dog may be gaining weight. Some are due to factors that you can control, and others may be due to a condition that they are dealing with.
Here are some of the most common reasons why your dog may be gaining weight.
You are feeding too much.
As your dog ages, he or she won’t need as much food. You need to start to adjust their daily feeding depending on their stage of life. You may be surprised by how little food your dog needs to eat in a day, especially when your dog becomes an adult.
Photo Courtesy of Canva
Your dog isn’t getting enough exercise.
In order for your dog to stay in shape, you need to find ways to build exercise into his or her life. This may include walks in the park, playing ball in the backyard, and even going to the dog park.
It may be in your dog’s genetics.
Certain breeds are more prone to obesity, so if you own a dog that is more commonly overweight, you need to be even more careful with how much you are feeding your dog.
Some of the most common dogs that are overweight are Labs, Cocker Spaniels, Beagles, Dachshunds, and much more.
Certain medications may cause your dog to gain weight.
The most common medication is Prednisone, though there are many different medications that can make it easy for your dog to pack on the pounds.
Hypothyroidism and Cushing’s Disease will often cause weight gain, which is why you should have your dog checked out by a veterinarian when you start the weight loss journey.
So, what can you do to help your dog to lose weight?
Taking your dog to the veterinarian should be the first step in the weight loss process. Your veterinarian will help you determine what your dog should weigh, as well as rule out any problems which may be the reason why your dog weighs more than he or she should.
Photo Courtesy of Canva
If you want to learn more, you can check out my other article, Tips for Weight Loss in Dogs and Cats, about helping your pet to lose weight. If interested, you can check it out right here.
***
Please note, the information provided is for educational and informational purposes only. Although I am a veterinary professional, this blog should not be used as a substitute for professional veterinary advice.
If your pet is experiencing a medical problem or concern, please contact a veterinary health professional immediately.
I recently wrote an article entitled Yes, You CAN Get a Puppy If You Want One. If you haven’t had a chance to read it, you can check it out here.
The comments, especially from other veterinary professionals, weren’t very nice. They ripped me apart, both in terms of the topic and the writing style. I was pretty upset about all the comments I received, since I was just trying to write a piece to help people not feel bad if they genuinely wanted a puppy.
One of the main concerns about the article was that it didn’t address the issue of ethical breeding versus backyard breeding at all. For this reason, I have decided to write what ethical breeding really is.
So, what is ethical breeding?
Ethical breeders are ALL about the breed.
They want to preserve the breed so that they will breed only the best representatives of the breed. They will even go above and beyond, conducting health testing to ensure that they are selling the highest quality and healthiest animals possible.
This may include OFA (Orthopedic Foundation for Animals) testing. They have a database of tests that can be run to make sure that puppies will be less likely to have genetic problems (such as hip dysplasia).
They may also request that you visit their home or kennel before picking a puppy.
You will want to ensure that the puppies appear healthy, happy, and clean. Are they active and playing around? Are they a good weight and look solid? Does the mother look delighted to be with them? You can tell a lot about a breeder by looking at their moms and puppies.
That being said, during COVID, more and more people did visits like this over Zoom. If the breeder isn’t close to you, you can request a visit online so that you can still take a look at the breeder’s setup and how their animals look.
Photo Courtesy of Canva
They will require a contract to ensure that their puppies get taken care of.
They may ask you what you are planning to do with your dog. The breeder may require you to spay or neuter your pet at a certain age. They may also ask that you return the dog to you if anything happens. Regardless of the dog’s age, owners would prefer to take them back rather than have the dog end up in a shelter.
Ethical breeders want the best for their puppies.
This includes ensuring that they receive the socialization they need to raise healthy and confident dogs. They work with their puppies on socialization and training to ensure that they are ready to be homed.
Because they do so much with their puppies, they have a good idea of what each puppy will need.
Good, ethical breeders match puppies with families. You don’t get to choose a puppy. You let the breeder know what you are looking for (show, pet, working, etc.) and they will figure out which puppy will best fit your lifestyle. If you are active and prefer the outdoors, they will ensure that you get a puppy that is confident and playful. If you are looking for a companion to sit beside you, they will help you find the right dog for you. If you have little ones, they will choose a puppy that they think will handle your children.
Photo Courtesy of Canva
Ethical breeders are all ABOUT the breed. They are going to choose the best parents to ensure that their puppies are of high quality and are able to do what they were bred for. They spend a lot of time with their puppies and will do what they can to ensure they are properly socialized. They will also help you choose the right puppy for you, rather than allowing you to choose one that you want. Not only that, but they are happy to match puppies with the right family.
***
Please note,the information provided is for educational and informational purposes only. Although I am a veterinary professional, this blog should not be used as a substitute for professional veterinary advice.
If your pet is experiencing a medical problem or concern, please contact a veterinary health professional immediately.
We all love our dogs. They snuggle with us, greet us like rock stars when we come home, and always seem to know when we need a little comfort. But let’s be honest—sometimes they open their mouths and… yikes. That breath could knock you over!
If you’ve ever leaned in for a kiss and changed your mind, you’re not alone. Bad breath in dogs is super common, but that doesn’t mean it should be ignored. In fact, stinky breath is often a sign that your pup’s mouth needs some help.
What Causes Bad Breath?
Most of the time, doggy halitosis is caused by plaque and tartar buildup, just like in humans. Bacteria collect along the gum line and, if left unchecked, can lead to dental disease. And while kibble alone doesn’t cut it when it comes to oral hygiene, the good news is there are some easy, dog-approved ways to help freshen things up.
3 Easy Ways to Freshen Your Dog’s Breath (That They’ll Actually Enjoy)
Here are a few tried-and-true products that can help reduce plaque, improve oral health, and make those puppy kisses much more pleasant:
1. Bully Sticks
Not just a tasty treat—bully sticks are great for your dog’s teeth. These all-natural chews help scrape away plaque as your dog gnaws, sort of like a toothbrush made of deliciousness. They’re also fully digestible, which makes them safer than some synthetic chews. Just be sure to supervise and choose the right size for your pup.
2. Milk Bone Brushing Chews
These clever little chews are shaped like a toothbrush for a reason. Milk Bone Brushing Chews are designed to clean like a brush and freshen like a mint. With daily use, they can help reduce tartar buildup and keep that doggy mouth a little less dragon-y. And dogs love the taste, so it feels like a treat, not a chore.
Product Available on Amazon
3. ProDen PlaqueOff
This one’s a little different—it’s a powder made from seaweed that you sprinkle on your dog’s food. Sounds weird, right? But it works. ProDen PlaqueOff helps break down existing plaque and prevents new buildup by tackling it at the source: your dog’s saliva. It’s odorless, tasteless (to dogs, anyway), and super easy to add to their daily routine.
Product Available on Amazon
A Happier, Fresher-Mouthed Pup
You don’t have to dread your dog’s kisses or avoid those close-up cuddles. With a few small changes—and some tasty additions to their day—you can help improve your pup’s oral health and keep their breath smelling a lot sweeter.
So why not give one (or all!) of these options a try? Your nose—and your dog—will thank you.
***
Please note, this article contains affiliate links, where I will receive compensation if you buy the product, without any extra cost to you.
***
You should also note that the information provided is for educational and informational purposes only. Although I am a veterinary professional, this blog should not be used as a substitute for professional veterinary advice.
If your pet is experiencing a medical problem or concern, please contact a veterinary health professional immediately.
