Anyone familiar with Purina Dental Health canine diet?

[Pool Hall Ace]

Hi everyone,
My 8-year-old doxie's breath was starting to smell dumpster-like, so I had his teeth cleaned last week. In the past, I had only made a half-hearted attempt to brush his teeth, which he hated of course, but my husband is going to give it another try. The vet recommended that Helmer not indulge in chew hooves anymore, so we have given him a rope Booda bone and he seems to be enjoying that.

The vet also recommended that we switch to the Purina dental health diet. I had been feeding him Iams for a long time, but switched him to Innova senior after I read about the Iams horrors. I am really happy with Innova, and I'm reluctant to switch food again, particularly to a brand that is only sold through a veterinary office.

What do you think you would do if it were your dog? Any feedback is appreciated.

Here's a pic of Helmer with his favorite bankie:

[Lorien]

1. Well, as my vet says" just how clean are YOUR teeth after

you eat a box of crackers"? He thinks that dry food as a "dental" diet is pure rot and he recommends a ready made raw diet or high quality wet food for pets with dental issues (my cat Miro has awful teeth too). I think Innova is far better than anything Purina makes because of these issues: http://www.api4animals.org/facts?p=359&more=1
you might also browse through a magazine like "bark" to find out what new dental products are available, then do a little online research. I'd avoid Greenies because of the chocking/ blockage reports. Another thought: dental sealant. There's a new wax like coating that can be put on your pet's teeth to ward off problems. That might be your best bet.

[Pool Hall Ace]

3. Oh wow, thank you for that link.

Maybe I will start making Helmer's food myself. I'll check into the dental sealant, too. :hi:

[BrklynLiberal]

2. I find it hard to believe anything Purina makes is any good.

Helmer is adorable!!!!

My dog's breeder says actual brushing and the use of a little "scraper" like the dental hygienist uses is the best bet. Of course it is best to start when they are young.

There is a homeopathic cure for plaque and tartar called fragaria.

Any chew that involves cowhide or such is hard to digest and would probably cause bad breath. Try fresh veggies. My dog loves baby carrots. Apple slices are also good. If you can find a little hard rubber toy or such to stuff them inot and make him work to get them it might be your best bet.

[Pool Hall Ace]

4. Oh, Helmer loves baby carrots!

I will do some research on fragaria and take your suggestions.

And thank you for the compliment! While Bu$hCo seems to be leading the country to hell in a handbasket and there is only so much you can do, Helm's fuzzy presence is a huge source of joy and comfort!