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Study reveals dog breeds most at risk of dental disease
The researchers found a strong link between ageing in dogs and the risk of developing dental disease.

“This research shows how much hidden misery our dogs often suffer" - Dr Dan O'Neill.

Toy poodles, King Charles spaniels, greyhounds and Cavalier King Charles spaniels are among the dog breeds at highest risk of dental disease, according to new research.

The study by the Royal Veterinary College (RVC) also found that brachycephalic breeds had a higher risk (1.25 times) of dental disease compared to breeds with mesocephalic (medium-sized) skulls. 

It is hoped that the findings, published in the Journal of Small Animal Practice, will improve awareness of both the frequency of dental issues in dogs, as well as which breeds are most susceptible.

Lead author Dr Dan O’Neill, a senior lecturer in companion animal epidemiology at the RVC, said: “This research shows how much hidden misery our dogs often suffer from dental disease. Ask your vet to give you an update on the dental health of your dog at every visit. Be dental aware, and your dog will thank you.”

In the study, researchers from the RVC’s VetCompass programme used anonymised veterinary health records from some 22,000 dogs. After following the dogs for a year, they found that 12.5 per cent were affected by dental disease.

Besides the breeds most at risk of developing dental disease, the study found that smaller dog breeds had a higher risk of developing dental disease than heavier breeds.
There was also a strong link between ageing and the risk of developing dental disease, with dogs aged over 12 years being 3.91 times the risk compared with dogs aged two to four.

Co-author Claire Mitchell, an academic leader in science & engineering at the University of Nottingham International College, said: “This work represents an important step forward for dog dental health. Much other research links the head-shape of flat-faced dogs to other problems, so it makes sense that dental health would also be affected.

"It’s also really useful to know which breeds are more prone to dental disease. Hopefully we can now improve welfare for these dogs.”

 

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Defra shares new Sanitary and Phytosanitary guidance

News Story 1
 Defra has published guidance for the vet sector ahead of a proposed UK-EU Sanitary and Phytosanitary agreement.

The agreement, which will change the movement and trade of animals and related products, could see reductions in checks, paperwork and certification. As well as describing regulatory developments, the advice highlights the importance of animal ID, registration and traceability in disease control and other compliance arrangements.

The guidance can be found here. More detail is expected as negotiations progress. 

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News Shorts
Lords Committee opens Pet Parasite Medication inquiry

The House of Lords Environment and Climate Change Committee will launch its inquiry into Pet Parasite Medication (PPM) on Wednesday (3 June).

Focusing on treatments containing fipronil and imidacloprid, the inquiry will seek to understand distribution pathways and the impacts of PPM use and non-use on biodiversity and human health. It will also cover current regulation, monitoring, and the potential implications for pets and their owners.

The committee will hear evidence from environmental non-governmental organisations and research institutes. The public can follow the proceedings live on Parliament TV or in person in the Palace of Westminster.