Seeing your dog’s gums bleeding can be alarming, and it’s a sign that something isn’t right. The underlying problem could range from something minor to a more serious health concern.
It’s important to recognize the signs of gum disease and take action quickly. Early detection and treatment are key to keeping your dog’s mouth healthy and protecting their overall health.
In this article, we’ll go over the common causes of a dog’s gums bleeding, what symptoms to watch for, how to prevent it from happening, and what treatment options are available.
Common causes of bleeding gums in dogs
If you’ve noticed your dog’s gums are bleeding, there are several possible causes. Here are some of the most common:
Periodontal disease
Often, bleeding gums are a sign of periodontal disease, which results from a buildup of plaque and tartar on your dog’s teeth. Over time, this buildup can lead to inflammation and bleeding.
Periodontal disease typically starts with gingivitis, which is inflammation of the gums. If gingivitis isn’t treated, it can progress to periodontitis, which is damage to the tissues and bone that support the teeth.
Foreign objects and trauma
Sometimes, a dog’s gums bleed because a foreign object is stuck in the gums, causing irritation, inflammation, and bleeding.
Trauma or injury to the mouth can also cause bleeding gums. This could be from chewing on a hard object, getting into a fight with another animal, or some kind of accident.
Oral infections
An infection in the mouth can inflame the gums, making them more likely to bleed. These infections can be bacterial or fungal.
Nutritional deficiencies
Good nutrition plays a key role in your dog’s gum health, and nutritional deficiencies can cause gum problems. Vitamin C deficiency, although it’s rare, can lead to scurvy, which affects gum health.
Recognizing the signs and symptoms of bleeding gums
If your dog’s gums are bleeding, you may notice it while they’re chewing, when they’re playing with a toy, or when they take a drink from their water bowl. You might also see a little blood on your hands after you’ve been petting them around the mouth.
Here are a few other things you might see or notice if your dog has a problem with their gums:
- Bad breath (halitosis). A foul odor coming from your dog’s mouth can be a sign of oral health problems.
- Swollen or red gums. Gums that look unusually red and puffy are often inflamed.
- Reluctance to eat or chew. If their mouth hurts, they may avoid hard food or chew only on one side of their mouth.
- Excessive drooling. If they’re drooling more than usual, it could be a sign of oral discomfort.
- Pawing at the mouth. If they’re frequently pawing at or rubbing their face, they may be trying to relieve discomfort or irritation.
The Importance of Veterinary Dental Care
If you notice your dog’s gums are bleeding, it’s essential to seek veterinary care. A vet can fully assess the situation and recommend the right course of treatment.
Professional Dental Cleanings
Just like us, dogs benefit from regular dental checkups and cleanings. A professional cleaning removes plaque and tartar buildup that you can’t get rid of at home with brushing.
During a professional cleaning, your vet will scale and polish your dog’s teeth and examine the teeth and gums for any signs of disease or damage.
Identifying Underlying Issues
Sometimes, bleeding gums can signal an underlying health problem. Veterinarians are trained to identify and treat these contributing conditions.
To get to the root cause of the bleeding, your vet may recommend diagnostic tests such as blood work, X-rays, or even biopsies.
Treatment Options
Depending on the diagnosis, there are several treatments available. Antibiotics can help clear up infections, while pain medication can reduce inflammation. In severe cases of periodontal disease, surgery might be necessary to save teeth and prevent further damage.
At-Home Preventative Measures
The best way to keep your dog’s gums healthy is to practice good dental hygiene at home.
Regular Tooth Brushing
Just like with people, brushing your dog’s teeth at home is key to preventing dental problems. Use a dog-specific toothpaste and a soft-bristled toothbrush designed for dogs. Aim to brush daily, but if you can’t manage that, try to brush a few times a week.
Dental Chews and Toys
Dental chews can help scrape away plaque and tartar. Look for chews that are specifically designed to promote dental health.
Also, offer your dog safe chew toys. Avoid giving them hard objects like bones, as these can damage their teeth.
Diet and Nutrition
A balanced diet is essential for your dog’s overall health, including their oral health. Choose high-quality dog food that’s formulated for dental health. These foods often have a texture that helps to clean your dog’s teeth as they eat.
When to Seek Immediate Veterinary Attention
A little blood isn’t always an emergency, but you should watch your dog carefully.
Call your vet right away if:
- The bleeding won’t stop. Gums that bleed and bleed (or bleed, stop, and then bleed again) are a sign that something is seriously wrong.
- Your dog shows other symptoms. If your dog seems tired, doesn’t want to eat, or has a fever along with bleeding gums, get veterinary help right away.
- You see injuries or objects stuck in the gums. Wounds and foreign objects can cause infections and other problems.
In Summary
Bleeding gums can be a sign that something’s not right in your dog’s mouth or even somewhere else in their body. So, it’s important to pay attention to their oral health and get them to the vet if you notice anything unusual.
Regular checkups, a healthy diet, and at-home dental care are key to keeping your dog’s mouth — and the rest of them — healthy and happy.