Gingivitis in dogs is very common and often goes unnoticed in its early stages. It develops quietly without obvious signs at first. Many pet parents only notice it once bad breath, red gums, or discomfort while eating becomes visible.
While early gingivitis is reversible, ignoring it allows inflammation to progress deeper into the gums and supporting structures of the teeth. Over time, this can lead to dog gum disease, pain, infection, and tooth loss.
Understanding how gingivitis starts, what it looks like, and how it can be treated is key to protecting your dog’s long-term health.
What is Gingivitis in Dogs?
Canine gingivitis is a reversible inflammation of the gums caused by bacterial plaque buildup on the teeth. In canine gingivitis, the gums appear red, swollen, and sensitive.
What are the Causes of Gingivitis in Dogs?
The main cause of gingivitis in dogs is the buildup of plaque and tartar on the teeth and along the gum line. Plaque forms daily from food particles and bacteria. If it is not removed through regular brushing or chewing, it hardens into tartar.
Tartar irritates the gums, allowing bacteria to thrive and trigger inflammation. Poor oral hygiene creates the ideal environment for this process to worsen over time and eventually lead to canine gum disease.
Other common causes and risk factors include:
- Crowded or misaligned teeth, where food and plaque get trapped.
- Soft or sticky diets that cling to the teeth.
- Lack of regular tooth brushing.
- Certain health conditions, such as diabetes, kidney disease, or lowered immunity.
- Age and breed-related dental structures, especially in smaller dogs like Chihuahuas, Toy Poodles, and Pugs.
If you’re unsure about the cause of your dog’s symptoms, book pet diagnostics near you for a thorough evaluation.
What are the Main Symptoms of Gingivitis in Dogs?
The main symptoms of gingivitis in dogs often appear before your dog changes how they eat. Many dog parents first notice a bad smell rather than obvious pain.
Typical symptoms include:
- Red or dark pink gums, especially along the tooth edges.
- Swollen, puffy gum margins.
- Bleeding when chewing toys, bones, or during brushing.
- “Halitosis,” which means really bad breath.
- Yellow or brown deposits on the teeth near the gums.
- Drooling, pawing at the mouth, or chewing on only one side.
If you gently lift your dog’s lips and see red, swollen gums or tartar, it is time for a dog gingivitis treatment discussion with your vet.
Is Gingivitis in Dogs Painful?
Yes, gingivitis in dogs is painful, but dogs are very good at hiding pain. So, they often keep eating and playing, even with sore mouths.
You may notice more subtle pain signs, such as:
- Eating more slowly or dropping food.
- Avoiding harder treats or dry kibble.
- Flinching, pulling away, or getting irritable when the face is touched.
- Less interest in chewing toys they previously enjoyed.
How to Treat Gingivitis in Dogs?
Treating gingivitis in dogs usually starts with a professional dental cleaning performed by a veterinarian under anesthesia. This approach allows safe, thorough cleaning above and below the gums where a brush cannot reach.
A dental treatment plan may include:
- Full oral exam and, when needed, dental X‑rays.
- Ultrasonic scaling to remove tartar from tooth surfaces.
- Careful cleaning under the gum line, where bacteria hide.
- Polishing of the teeth so plaque sticks less easily afterward.
What is the Best Treatment for Gingivitis in Dogs?
The best treatment for gingivitis in dogs is a combination of in-clinic dental cleaning and consistent home care. The professional dental scaling or deep cleaning removes existing tartar, while daily care at home (like brushing their teeth regularly and giving access to dental chews) prevents it from coming back quickly.
Depending on the case, your vet may also recommend:
- Pain relief medications for very sore gums.
- Antibiotics if there is a deeper infection or other illness.
- Regular dental rechecks every 6–12 months, especially for senior and high‑risk breeds.
Are Certain Breeds More Likely to Suffer from Gingivitis?
Yes, some breeds are more prone to canine gingivitis and other dental problems. Research shows that smaller dogs, including certain toy breeds such as Toy Poodles, Yorkshire Terriers (Yorkies), and Chihuahuas, are at higher risk of dental disease. Their small jaws and crowded teeth make it easier for plaque to collect.
Is Gingivitis in Dogs Contagious?
Gingivitis in dogs itself is not directly contagious between dogs. Gingivitis refers to how your dog’s gum reacts to the plaque and bacterial buildup in their mouth.
However, dogs that live together can share some oral bacteria through licking, shared toys, and food or water bowls. If none of the dogs receive proper dental care, plaque can build up in all of them. Good hygiene, brushing, and individual bowls help reduce this shared risk.
How to Treat Gingivitis in Dogs at Home
Dental care at home is vital to control gingivitis in dogs, especially after professional cleaning.
Canine dental care at home should include:
- Daily tooth brushing using dog‑safe toothpaste and a soft brush.
- Dental chews that are proven to reduce plaque and tartar.
- Oral rinses, gels, or water additives recommended by your vet.
- Regular at‑home mouth checks to spot new redness, swelling, or bad breath early.
Professional dental cleaning for gingivitis in dogs should be done at a trusted pet clinic near you.
Maintaining Your Dog’s Oral Health
Maintaining your dog’s oral health means building a simple, repeatable routine. Small actions done daily are more effective than big efforts once in a while.
Dog parents can:
- Schedule dental checks at least once a year, or more often for high‑risk breeds like Chihuahua, Poodles, etc.
- Combine dry food, safe chews, and brushing to control plaque.
- Learn brushing techniques and handling tips from trusted veterinarians.
Professional pet grooming near you can improve oral hygiene and help prevent gingivitis in dogs.
Maintaining Optimal Dog Dental Health Through Diet and Care
Diet plays an important role in controlling canine gum disease. It has a direct impact on oral health. Soft foods tend to stick to teeth, while certain textures help reduce plaque buildup.
Feeding a balanced diet, avoiding sugary treats, and offering approved dental chews help maintain optimal dental health. For dogs with sore gums, temporary dietary adjustments may be needed until inflammation improves.
What to Feed a Dog With Gingivitis
A dog with gingivitis should be fed a diet that is easy to chew and does not irritate inflamed gums. Softened dry food, wet diets, or veterinarian-recommended home diets can improve comfort while eating
You can also offer raw or lightly cooked carrot sticks as crunchy, natural “toothbrush” snacks, as long as your dog chews safely and is supervised. Always ask your vet before changing the diet if your dog has other health problems.
Special Considerations for Different Dogs
Different dogs need different levels of treatment for canine gingivitis. Small breeds, toy breeds, and flat‑faced dogs often need more frequent cleanings and stricter home routines.
Older dogs and dogs with conditions like diabetes or kidney disease may also need closer monitoring. In these pets, dog gum disease can worsen overall health, so vets often suggest more regular checks and tailored home care plans.
Why Does My Dog Keep Getting Gingivitis?
A dog keeps getting gingivitis when plaque is not removed often enough or when the dog has a natural high risk due to their genetics. Crowded teeth, shallow roots, or certain breeds can lead to frequent flare‑ups even when you are trying hard.
Are There Any Studies Into Gingivitis in Dogs?
Yes, there are many studies on gingivitis in dogs and on broader dental disease. Large surveys suggest that about 80–89% of adult dogs have some level of canine gum disease, making it one of the most common health issues in pet dogs.
Recent work on canine gingivitis has highlighted that small and toy breeds carry the highest risk and often show problems earlier in life. Other research explores which treatments, including antibiotics for dog gingivitis and specific dental diets, work best at different stages of disease.
When to Look for Experts for Gingivitis in Dogs
Dog parents should look for expert help as soon as they notice ongoing bad breath, red gums, or visible tartar on their dog’s teeth. Waiting until the dog clearly refuses food or cries from pain usually means the disease has progressed.
Seek veterinary care right away if:
- Your dog’s gums bleed easily or look very red.
- Your dog drools more than usual, drops food, or avoids chewing.
- You see swelling of the face or jaw, or your dog becomes suddenly quiet or irritable.
Frequently Asked Questions
What causes dogs to have gingivitis?
Plaque buildup due to poor oral hygiene is the primary cause of gingivitis in dogs. Diet, age, breed, and lack of routine dental care can increase the risk.
What is the best treatment for gingivitis in dogs?
Professional dental cleaning combined with consistent home care offers the best results.
What happens if dog gingivitis is untreated?
Untreated gingivitis can progress to advanced periodontal disease, tooth loss, chronic pain, and systemic infections in dogs.
What to feed a dog with gingivitis?
Soft, balanced foods may be recommended temporarily. Long-term, a veterinary diet with a larger kibble size that supports dental health is ideal.
Why does my dog keep getting gingivitis?
Recurring gingivitis is usually linked to inconsistent oral care, underlying health issues, or breed-related dental structure.
References:
Barnes, C., Hiscox, L., & Bellows, J. (2023). Gingivitis and stomatitis in dogs. VCA Animal Hospitals.
https://vcahospitals.com/know-your-pet/gingivitis-and-stomatitis-in-dogs
. “Dog Owners’ Perspectives on Canine Dental Health—a Questionnaire Study in Sweden.” Frontiers in Veterinary Science, vol. 7, no. PMC7297050, 9 June 2020,
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7297050
O’Flynn, C., Wright, H., Williams, T., & Ellerby, Z. (2026). Veterinary assessment of periodontitis disease risk in dogs: A multi-country survey of clinical decision-making. Preventive Veterinary Medicine, 247, Article 106735. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0167587725003204?via%3Dihub
