Dental problems are common in dogs and can affect your pet’s comfort, appetite and overall health. If you notice bleeding gums, loose or broken teeth, bad breath or pale gums, it is important to act promptly. This guide from Pro Nutrition explains the most common signs, simple first-aid steps you can take at home, and when you should see a veterinarian.
Why are my dog’s gums bleeding?
Light, widespread bleeding often points to gum disease (gingivitis or periodontal disease). Heavy, localised bleeding usually means your dog has cut their gums and needs immediate veterinary care.
What should I do if my dog loses a tooth?
If the tooth has fallen out cleanly and your dog is older, it may be age-related—still see your vet. If the tooth is broken or part of it remains, seek veterinary care to avoid infection and pain.
When do pale gums mean an emergency?
Pale gums can indicate blood loss, anaemia from parasites, kidney disease or internal bleeding. If you see pale gums together with rapid breathing, weakness or a fast heartbeat, contact your vet immediately.
1. Bleeding gums — causes and what to do
Causes
- Gum disease (gingivitis, periodontal disease): Early stages cause inflamed, bleeding gums across a wide area.
- Cuts and trauma: A single spot of heavy bleeding usually follows an injury (stick, glass, sharp object).
- Foreign objects: Small items stuck between teeth can irritate and bleed the gum.
- Coagulation problems or medications: Rare, but certain conditions or drugs can make bleeding worse.
What to do right away
- Stay calm and keep your dog still. Panic will stress your dog and make bleeding worse.
- Locate the source. Gently lift the lip to see where the blood is coming from.
- Apply gentle pressure. Use a clean cloth or sterile gauze and press gently for several minutes.
- Do not use human medicines such as aspirin unless prescribed by your vet. Some human drugs are dangerous for dogs.
- If bleeding is heavy or won’t stop, go to your vet. Heavy bleeding often results from cuts that need professional treatment.
Prevention
- Regular tooth brushing with a dog-safe toothpaste.
- Routine dental checks at the vet.
- Safe toys and supervision on walks to avoid sharp objects.
- Appropriate dental chews recommended by your vet.
2. Tooth loss and broken teeth
Why do teeth fall out
- Age and dental calculus: Older dogs build up tartar and plaque which can loosen teeth over time.
- Infection: Advanced periodontal disease destroys the structures that hold teeth in place.
- Trauma: Chewing hard objects (stones, very hard toys) can break a tooth.
Signs you should watch for
- Missing or broken teeth.
- Drooling, difficulty eating, or favouring one side of the mouth.
- Red, swollen gums or a bad smell from the mouth.
- A visible hole or dark area at the base of a tooth (possible abscess).
What to do
- If the tooth is cleanly missing: Still make a veterinary appointment — X-rays may be needed to check roots and bone.
- If the tooth is broken or a sharp fragment remains: See your vet immediately to avoid pain, infection or damage to the mouth.
- Follow your vet’s plan for treatment; this commonly includes extraction, antibiotics or pain relief.
3. Bad breath
Causes
- Poor oral hygiene and plaque buildup.
- Dental disease like gingivitis or infected teeth.
- Digestive or metabolic conditions can also cause strong odors.
- Certain foods and treats temporarily smellier than others.
When to worry
Bad breath alone may not be urgent, but if it occurs with red or bleeding gums, tooth loss, drooling or loss of appetite, book a veterinary examination to rule out dental disease.
How to improve breath
- Regular tooth brushing.
- Dental chews or toys approved by your vet.
- Professional dental cleaning when recommended by the veterinarian.
- A balanced diet—complete food from trusted brands like Pro Nutrition supports overall oral health.
4. Pale gums - signs and causes
How gums should look
A healthy dog’s gums are usually pink and moist. Colour and moisture are quick checks for wellbeing.
What pale gums may indicate
- Blood loss (external or internal).
- Severe parasite infestation (e.g., fleas, ticks, intestinal parasites causing anaemia).
- Organ disease such as kidney disease that reduces red blood cell production.
- Shock or serious illness.
When to seek urgent care
If pale gums appear suddenly or you see other signs — weakness, rapid breathing, fast heart rate, fainting — contact your vet urgently. These can be life-threatening signs.
5. Prevention: daily care and long-term habits
A good dental routine lowers the chance of bleeding gums, tooth loss and bad breath.
- Brush teeth daily with a dog-safe toothpaste and suitable toothbrush.
- Regular veterinary dental checks and professional cleanings as recommended.
- Provide dental-friendly foods and chews. Chews designed to reduce plaque can help; check with your vet which products are safe for your dog.
- Avoid very hard chew items (hard stones, hooves, antlers) that can break teeth.
- Monitor your dog on walks to avoid sharp sticks, glass, waste plastic and broken containers.
Pro Nutrition supports a balanced diet as a foundation of oral and overall health. Choosing a complete, high-quality food helps maintain healthy gums and teeth.
6. First-aid checklist for owners
- Keep clean gauze or cloth in your first-aid kit.
- Have your veterinarian’s contact number and nearest emergency clinic details saved.
- Carry a muzzle or soft restraint (only use if your dog is calm — muzzling a panicked dog can be dangerous).
- Note the time bleeding started, and any objects your dog may have eaten or chewed.
7. Frequently asked questions (short answers for quick reference)
Can gum disease make my dog lose weight?
Yes. Pain from infected gums or loose teeth can reduce appetite and lead to weight loss.
Are dental chews effective?
Many dental chews help reduce plaque, but they do not replace tooth brushing or professional care. Choose vet-recommended products.
Is bad breath always from the mouth?
Not always. Bad breath can be dental, but it may also come from the stomach, kidneys or other health issues. A vet check will find the cause.
Can I treat a broken tooth at home?
No. A broken tooth often requires veterinary treatment to remove fragments, treat infection and relieve pain.
Need help? Where to go next
If you are unsure about the severity of your dog’s dental problem, contact your veterinarian. For heavy bleeding, sudden pale gums or signs of severe pain, seek emergency veterinary care right away.
For more advice on dog dental care, safe treats and nutrition tips, visit Pro Nutrition’s dog dental advice page. Our goal is to help you keep your dog healthy and comfortable every day.