[Misty and Shady]

My dog is six years old and until six or so months ago she has chewed on tennis balls and we have used them for fetching. It came to my attention (six months ago) that her teeth are incredibly worn down, to the point of being flat at the tips. Also the core is visible (not just the outer enamel).

Anyways, I'm pretty sure she's having a harder time eating, considering it must be painful, and she doesnt eat for a long time some days. I occasionally (for the last few years) put a little bit of canola oil on her food and was wondering if I do this more regualry it might help her teeth, or at least soften the food so it won't hurt her. Maybe I should put a little bit of water to? If you have any suggestions, please let me know. Thanks.

[Josh Smith]

The wearing down of a dog's teeth is a normal aspect of dog ownership. I doubt it was entirely the tennis balls.

Remember, your dog, depending on size, is middle aged, +/-. Maybe about 60-65 if you want to compare it to a human. Would a human that age have perfect teeth? And how often do you brush your dog's teeth?

The only thing canola oil will really do is help the dog poop.

You need to get your veterinarian's advice. It may be time for a senior formula dog food that is easier to chew and digest. I can't give much more advice without an examination. And then I'd probably still highly suggest you get her to a vet because I'd probably see worn teeth and smell decay.

Josh

[Misty and Shady]

First of all, I never really brush her teeth, and they are practically perfectly white, and any colour that is on them is a really light brown, nothing that looks like serious rotting. So anyways, I'm pretty sure dental work is unnecessary, although a vets opinion would be a good idea, however i can't afford that right now. Thank you for the advice on canola oil, I won't increase the amount then, because she does already have a tendancy to have runny poops. I will look into a new dog food- which might turn out to be doubly beneficial considering the stuff she eats now is bloody expensive!

[angiesample]

What do u feed her now?

[Marc]

You sound like you might have been offended by the first response. I do have to agree though. Dogs can and do chew just about anything. My dogs will chew on old boards if I let them. I have a friend whose dogs will chew on rocks if he doesn't clear them from the yard!

Many people brush their dogs' teeth, but I've never found it necessary.

It's time to switch to a softer food.

A word of caution. Keep an eye on those teeth. If the core becomes open and the root is exposed, your dog becomes more prone to infection. That kind of infection is called an abscess and has killed many people and animals. You're going to want to get your dog some dental help at that point or you're risking a painful death.

[Lara's mom]

Is the tennis ball issue serious enough to switch to different balls?

[Misty and Shady]

Hi, I'm sorry, I wasn't offended! I think the tennis balls might as well go, considering they can't be that great for her teeth, even if the teeth wearing down isn't completely due to that. I will look into a softer food when this bag is done. Thank you everyone.

[Lara's mom]

My 13 year old Border Collie X has played with tennis balls her whole life. She has beautiful teeth which have never needed any work. I honestly don't buy this whole thing.