Key Takeaways
French Bulldogs have a unique dental anatomy that requires special attention and care.
Regular at-home dental care can prevent common oral health issues in Frenchies.
Proper brushing techniques and the right dental products are crucial for maintaining your Frenchie’s oral hygiene.
Diet plays a significant role in your dog’s dental health.
Professional dental cleanings are a vital part of your French Bulldog’s dental care routine.
French Bulldog Dental Anatomy
Because of their flat faces and short jaws, French Bulldogs often have an underbite, where the lower teeth protrude beyond the upper teeth. This unique trait can sometimes lead to dental challenges that need to be managed with regular care.
Frenchies typically have 42 teeth, comprising incisors, canines, premolars, and molars.
French Bulldogs have the same number of teeth as other dogs – 28 teeth as puppies and 42 teeth as adults.
The 42 adult teeth consist of 12 incisors, 4 canines, 16 premolars, and 10 molars.
French Bulldog Teeth Diagram
At the front, they have six small incisors used for nibbling. Behind these are the mighty canines, one on each side, top and bottom, which they use for tearing. Then come the premolars and molars, the big grinders at the back of the mouth, essential for crushing their food. A visual diagram can help you identify each type of tooth and understand where you need to focus your brushing efforts.
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Here is a detailed list of steps for French Bulldog dental care:
1. Start Early: Introduce tooth brushing to your French Bulldog from a young age to get them accustomed to the process. Begin by gently touching their muzzle, lifting their lips, and touching their teeth and gums.
Starting as early as 8-12 weeks of age is ideal.
2. Use the Right Tools: Invest in a soft-bristled toothbrush specifically designed for dogs and dog-specific toothpaste.
Avoid using human toothpaste as it can be harmful to dogs.
3. Get Familiar with Their Teeth: Examine your Frenchie’s teeth regularly for signs of dental issues like redness, swelling, tartar buildup, or loose teeth.
Consult your veterinarian if you notice any concerns.
4. Gradual Introduction: Before brushing, introduce the toothpaste to your Frenchie by letting them taste and sniff it to create a positive association.
5. Gentle Brushing Technique: Use gentle, circular motions to clean their teeth and gums. Focus on the outer surfaces, which are most prone to plaque buildup. Take it slow and provide plenty of praise and positive reinforcement.
6. Timing: The best time for brushing is after meals when food particles can be removed, or in the morning or evening when your Frenchie is calm and relaxed.
7. Consistency: Aim for daily tooth brushing sessions as plaque can harden within 24 hours. Consistent brushing effectively prevents plaque buildup and maintains good oral hygiene.
8. Dental Chews and Toys: Provide dental chews and toys to help remove plaque and tartar through chewing, while also providing mental stimulation.
9. Balanced Diet: Feed your Frenchie a balanced diet low in sugar and carbohydrates to prevent plaque and tartar buildup. Avoid table scraps.
10. Professional Dental Cleanings: Schedule regular professional dental cleanings with your veterinarian, typically annually from around two years of age. This allows for thorough cleaning, scaling, and polishing of teeth under anesthesia.
Best Dental Care Products
Brushes
Top 5 brushes for French Bulldogs:
| Brush | Pros | Cons | Price (approx.) | VOHC Approved |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Furminator Deshedding Tool | Effectively removes loose undercoat, reduces shedding, ergonomic handle | May cause skin irritation if used excessively, not suitable for everyday use | $25-$50 | No |
| Kong Zoom Groom Brush | Gentle rubber bristles, massages skin, easy to clean, durable | May not remove all loose hair | $8-$12 | No |
| Slicker Brush | Removes loose hair and mats, distributes natural oils | May cause discomfort if not used gently | $5-$15 | No |
| Hertzko Self-Cleaning Slicker Brush | Retracting bristles for easy cleaning, removes loose hair and dander | May be too harsh for sensitive skin | $10-$20 | No |
| Chris Christensen Oval Brushes | High-quality bristles, gentle on skin, distributes oils evenly | Expensive | $30-$60 | Yes |
The Chris Christensen Oval Brushes are the only ones on this list approved by the Veterinary Oral Health Council (VOHC), which means they have been proven to effectively control plaque and tartar buildup. However, they are also the most expensive option.
Toothpaste
Top 5 toothpastes for French Bulldogs:
| Item | Pros | Cons | Price | VOHC Approved |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Petsmile Professional Pet Toothpaste | – Only toothpaste with VOHC Seal – Clinically proven to reduce plaque and gingivitis | – Expensive | $25 | Yes |
| Vet’s Best Enzymatic Dog Toothpaste | – Affordable – Made in the USA – Not overly pungent | – Only one flavor option | $12 | No |
| Virbac C.E.T. Enzymatic Toothpaste | – Contains plaque-dissolving enzymes – Multiple flavor options – Made in the USA | – Strong scent – Metal tube hard to squeeze | $10-$15 | No |
| Arm & Hammer Dog Dental Care Toothpaste | – Baking soda formula – Affordable – Familiar brand | – Limited flavor options – May cause sensitivity in some dogs | $5-$10 | No |
| TropiClean Fresh Breath Gel Toothpaste | – Natural ingredients – Freshens breath | – More expensive than some options | $10-$15 | No |
The Petsmile Professional Pet Toothpaste is the only one on this list that has received the VOHC Seal of Approval, meaning it has been clinically proven to effectively reduce plaque and gingivitis. However, it is also the most expensive option at around $25.
VOHC And Your French Bulldog
If you use a toothbrush or toothpaste for your French Bulldog that is not approved by the Veterinary Oral Health Council (VOHC), there are a few potential consequences:
Lack of proven efficacy: The VOHC only awards its Seal of Acceptance to products that have been clinically proven through rigorous trials to effectively control plaque and tartar buildup. Using non-VOHC approved products means you cannot be certain of their ability to maintain your French Bulldog’s dental health.
Potential safety concerns: VOHC approval ensures the product is safe for use in pets and does not contain harmful ingredients. Non-approved products may contain substances that could be toxic or cause adverse reactions if ingested by your dog.
Suboptimal plaque/tartar control: The VOHC has strict standards for plaque and tartar reduction that approved products must meet. Using non-approved brushes or toothpastes likely means less effective removal of buildup, increasing the risk of dental issues like periodontal disease.
Wasted money: Many non-VOHC approved dental products make unsubstantiated claims about their efficacy. Using them could be an ineffective and wasteful expenditure compared to proven VOHC-accepted alternatives.
The Petsmile Professional Pet Toothpaste is currently the only one with the VOHC Seal for plaque inhibition in dogs. While more expensive, it guarantees safety and clinically-demonstrated plaque reduction of 62% compared to regular toothpastes.
Consulting your vet can also help select the most suitable options tailored to your dog’s needs.
Using Dental Wipes
Top 5 dental wipes for French Bulldogs, including their pros, cons, and approximate prices:
| Item | Pros | Cons | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| TropiClean Fresh Breath Dental Wipes | – Remove plaque and tartar – Freshen breath | – May need to use frequently for best results | $5-$10 for 25 wipes |
| Petkin Fresh Mint Dog & Cat Plaque Tooth Wipes | – Contain natural mint to freshen breath – Textured to scrub teeth | – Strong mint smell may be off-putting to some dogs | $10-$15 for 50 wipes |
| V4B Antiseptic Dental Wipe for Bulldogs | – Specifically designed for brachycephalic breeds – Antiseptic formula helps kill bacteria | – More expensive than some other options | $15-$20 for 30 wipes |
| Paw Wipes Dental Dog Wipes | – Contain natural ingredients like aloe vera – Textured for scrubbing | – May need to use multiple wipes per session | $10-$15 for 100 wipes |
| Vet’s Best Dental Wipes | – Contain natural ingredients and enzymes – Help remove plaque and tartar | – Some reports of wipes drying out quickly | $6-$10 for 30 wipes |
Water Additives: Options and Benefits
Water additives are a no-fuss way to help maintain your dog’s dental health. Just add the solution to your Frenchie’s drinking water, and it will help reduce plaque and tartar buildup.
Top 5 water additives for French Bulldogs:
| Item | Pros | Cons | Price (approx.) |
|---|---|---|---|
| TropiClean Fresh Breath Water Additive | – Fights plaque and tartar with green tea – Freshens breath | – Not recommended for use with water fountains | $10 for 16 oz |
| Oxyfresh Premium Pet Dental Care Solution | – 100% non-toxic – Odorless and tasteless | – Some dogs may not like lack of flavor | $15 for 16 oz |
| Petlab Co. Dental Formula Water Additive | – Odorless and easy to use – Natural ingredients | – Needs to be added to fresh water daily | $20 for 16 oz |
| Nylabone Advanced Oral Care Liquid Tartar Remover | – Helps control tartar buildup – Alters pH to remove bad breath | – Not suitable for cats | $8 for 16 oz |
| Virbac C.E.T Aquadent Dental Solution | – Uses natural sweetener, prebiotic, antioxidant – Proprietary FR3SH Technology | – No major cons listed | $18 for 16 oz |
It’s important to follow dosage instructions carefully and note that some dogs may not like the taste or develop digestive issues from certain additives. Consulting your vet is advisable before using any new dental product for your French Bulldog.
Dental Chews and Toys
Chewing is a natural behavior for dogs, and it can help with dental care. Dental chews and toys are designed to be both enjoyable for your Frenchie and beneficial for their teeth. Here’s a quick rundown:
Look for chews that are the right size for your French Bulldog’s mouth.
Ensure the chews are durable enough to last but not so hard that they can damage teeth.
Toys with nubs and ridges can help clean teeth as your dog chews.
Top 5 dental chews and toys for French Bulldogs:
| Item | Pros | Cons | Price (approx.) | VOHC Approved |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Vet Expert’s Choice French Bulldog Dental Chew Toy | – Ergonomic design for Frenchie jaws – Massages gums – Durable, non-toxic material | – Expensive – Only one texture/design | $24.90 | No |
| Greenies Dental Chews | – Highly effective plaque removal – Natural ingredients – Vet-recommended – Various sizes | – Can cause digestive issues in some dogs | $15-$25 | Yes |
| Wag Dental Chews | – Unique texture cleans teeth – No artificial flavors – Freshens breath | – Only one chew needed per day | $10-$15 | No |
| V4B Dental Hygiene Chews | – Reduces tartar and bad breath – 100% natural seaweed ingredients – Soft texture prevents choking | – Expensive – Limited size options | $21.18 (for >49lbs) | No |
| Nylabone Nutri Dent Dental Chews | – Freshens breath effectively – Highly digestible – Various flavors | – May be too hard for some dogs | $5-$10 | No |
Diet and Dental Health
Feeding Practices for Optimal Dental Health
Here are some feeding practices to keep your French Bulldog’s teeth strong:
Feed them dry dog food or a mix of wet and dry to help clean teeth.
Provide fresh water at all times to aid in washing away food particles.
Avoid sugary treats and human food that can lead to tooth decay.
Best Foods to Maintain Strong Teeth and Gums
Some specific foods can help promote dental health in French Bulldogs. Foods rich in calcium and phosphorus, such as certain dog-safe dairy products and fish, can strengthen teeth.
Top 5 dog foods for French Bulldogs, considering dental care:
| Item | Key Ingredients for Dental Health | Price (approx.) | VOHC Approved |
|---|---|---|---|
| Purina Pro Plan Dental+ | – Sodium polyphosphate (reduces tartar buildup) – Parsley (freshens breath) | $50 for 30 lbs | Yes |
| Hill’s Prescription Diet t/d | – Fiber matrix technology (scrubs teeth while chewing) – Omega-3 fatty acids (reduce inflammation) | $75 for 17.6 lbs | Yes |
| Royal Canin Dental Special | – Calcium chelators (bind to plaque) – Polyphosphates (prevent tartar formation) | $60 for 17.6 lbs | No |
| Iams Bright Bites Adult Dry Dog Food | – Crunchy kibble texture (scrapes plaque) – Parsley (freshens breath) | $35 for 30 lbs | No |
| Solid Gold Holistic Dental Health | – Pumpkin (high in fiber to scrub teeth) – Probiotics (promote healthy gums) | $60 for 24 lbs | No |
Crunchy vegetables like carrots can act as natural toothbrushes, massaging the gums and cleaning the teeth.
Professional Dental Care Beyond Brushing
Even with diligent at-home care, your Frenchie will still need professional dental cleanings. These cleanings go beyond what you can do at home, as they allow for a thorough examination and cleaning under the gums where periodontal disease starts.
Professional Dental Cleaning: When and How Often?
Your vet can best determine the frequency of professional cleanings, but most dogs benefit from a cleaning once a year. If your French Bulldog has a history of dental issues, they may require more frequent visits.
Lemonade pet insurance does offer dental coverage for French Bulldogs, but it requires adding a specific Dental Illness add-on to your policy.
My Favorite Pet Insurance is Lemonade.
Because they offer the most value for money with affordable prices for the most extensive coverage.
The key points regarding Lemonade’s dental coverage for French Bulldogs are:
- Their base accident and illness policy covers dental accidents like fractured teeth, tooth luxations (teeth knocked out of place), and related diagnostics, procedures, and medications.
- To cover dental illnesses like gingivitis and periodontal disease, you need to add the Dental Illness add-on to your policy. This add-on covers costs related to treating these dental illnesses and gum diseases.
- Their Preventative+ Care Package can cover routine dental cleanings, including the anesthesia required for the procedure.
- Lemonade does not explicitly mention coverage for orthodontic treatments like braces or other specialty dental procedures for French Bulldogs.
FAQs About French Bulldog Dental Care
How Often Should I Brush My Frenchie’s Teeth?
Brushing your Frenchie’s teeth should be a daily routine, much like your own. At the very least, aim to brush their teeth three times a week.
Can Dental Issues Affect My French Bulldog’s Overall Health?
Absolutely. Dental problems can lead to more serious health issues, including heart, liver, and kidney disease. Bacteria from the mouth can enter the bloodstream and affect various organs, which is why dental care is so important.
What Age Should Dental Care Begin for a French Bulldog?
Start dental care early. You can begin brushing your Frenchie’s teeth as soon as they come home with you, typically around 8 weeks old. This helps them get used to the routine from a young age.
Is Bad Breath Normal for French Bulldogs?
While many dog owners assume bad breath is a normal part of dog ownership, it’s often a sign of dental issues. Consistent bad breath can indicate that your Frenchie needs better dental care or has an underlying health problem.
Are Water Additives Effective for Dog Dental Care?
Water additives can be effective as part of a comprehensive dental care plan. They should not replace brushing but can help maintain dental hygiene between brushings.
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