The Dirty Truth About Dog Teeth… What Every Gundog Owner Needs To Know

The Overlooked Side of Working Dog Health: Why Their Teeth Deserve More Attention

We invest time and energy into our gundogs’ training—nailing that recall, refining heelwork, and building trust step by step. But there’s one part of their health that rarely gets the same focus: their teeth.

In our latest episode of Founded Fetch It, I sat down with canine dental expert Anastasia Wolf—founder of Dog Tooth Fairy—to talk about the hidden impact of poor dental health in dogs, especially working breeds.

This conversation is a must-listen for every gundog owner who wants to prevent silent pain, avoid costly vet bills, and protect their dog’s long-term wellbeing. You can listen to the full episode here.

Why Dental Health in Dogs Is More Serious Than You Think

Dogs, especially working breeds, are excellent at hiding pain. A cracked molar, infected gum, or rotting buildup may cause no obvious symptoms—until the damage is severe. Anastasia shared stories of dogs with teeth literally falling out of their mouths, and yet, they never showed signs of distress.

Left untreated, poor dental hygiene in dogs can lead to infection, organ strain, digestive issues, and even a shortened lifespan. It’s not just about bad breath—it’s about whole-body health.

Common Dental Issues in Working Dogs

Working dogs face unique risks. Picking up game, running through tough terrain, and constant outdoor exposure puts more wear on their teeth than the average pet dog.

• Plaque and tartar: Soft food residue becomes plaque, which hardens into tartar if not removed.
• Gum disease: Inflammation and infection can lead to tooth loss and bacterial spread through the bloodstream.
• Tooth fractures: Common in gundogs due to retrieving hard or awkward objects.

Can You Really Start Dental Care with an Older Dog?

Yes—though it takes patience and the right tools. Anastasia recommends gradually desensitising older dogs using positive reinforcement. If brushing isn’t an option, there are effective alternatives:

• Seaweed-based plaque powders added to meals
• Natural dental chews (such as dried fish skins or yak milk blocks)
• Ultrasonic toothbrushes like the Emmy Pet, which clean without vibration or noise

For dogs with severe tartar build-up or infected gums, a professional veterinary dental may be the only safe starting point. That’s why it’s essential to check your dog’s mouth regularly and catch problems early.

What About Raw-Fed Dogs—Aren’t Their Teeth Naturally Cleaner?

Not necessarily. While raw bones may help scrape some plaque away, even raw-fed dogs can suffer from dental issues. Breed genetics, jaw structure, and how the dog chews all play a role. As Anastasia explained, it’s common for one dog in a litter to have perfect teeth, while its sibling struggles with buildup and inflammation.

Spot the Early Signs of Dental Problems

Get into the habit of gently inspecting your dog’s teeth each week. Look for:

• Yellow film or brown buildup around the gum line
• Red or inflamed gums
• Unusually bad breath
• Reluctance to chew or favouring one side of the mouth

If your dog won’t let you near their mouth, it may be time to revisit calm handling and steady confidence building. That’s where our Calm Dog Blueprint comes in.

A Practical Approach to Dog Tooth Cleaning

Whether you’re using a finger brush, a traditional toothbrush, or investing in an ultrasonic dog toothbrush like the Emmy Pet, the key is consistency. Anastasia recommends brushing at least once a week—and more often for smaller or older dogs prone to buildup.

It’s also important to note that results with ultrasonic brushes can take several sessions. They’re silent and don’t move like a human toothbrush, but they work deeply, cleaning below the gum line and reducing plaque at a cellular level.

A Transformation That Changed Everything

One of the most powerful stories Anastasia shared was of an elderly spaniel whose owners couldn’t risk anaesthesia. With patience, regular sessions, and the right tools, she was able to safely restore the dog’s dental health over time—likely extending his quality of life.

That story stuck with me. Because we often dismiss dental care as “optional”. It’s not.

Your Next Step: Start With Awareness

If this post has made you pause and think, “When did I last check my dog’s teeth?”—you’re not alone. That moment of awareness is where change begins. Whether your dog is young, aging, or somewhere in between, it’s never too late to start paying attention to their mouth.

Click here to listen to the full podcast episode with Anastasia Wolf on Apple. 

It’s packed with expert tips, product recommendations, and real stories that could change how you care for your dog—starting today.

Download the Calm Dog Blueprint

If your dog won’t sit still long enough to examine their teeth, help is at hand. Our Calm Dog Blueprint includes easy, stress-free ways to train your dog to settle, accept handling, and build trust—essential foundations for grooming, vet visits, and daily care.

Because when our dogs feel safe, we can do more for their health.