Operation News – February 2026
Teef, Bucky Beavers, Chompers, Pearly Whites … No matter what you call them, in greyhounds, they can be a problem. Let’s talk about it.
Approximately 39% of greyhounds are highly susceptible to severe dental disease by the age of 2. Why is this the case? Several factors may be in play.
- Dietary Factors: During their time at the track, many greyhounds are fed soft, high-bacteria food, which does not help scrape plaque from teeth and instead promotes fast buildup.
- Genetic/Breed Predisposition: Studies have shown that greyhounds are particularly susceptible to periodontal disease. The breed’s anatomy, including a long, narrow snout (dolichocephalic) and short lips (flews), can make it harder to naturally remove food debris.
- Lack of Early Care: Many retired racers do not receive regular tooth brushing while at the kennel, resulting in advanced gum disease by the time they are adopted.
- Physical Wear and Damage: Stress-related behaviors, such as chewing on metal kennel bars or concrete, can cause teeth to break, fracture or wear down.
- Persistent Periodontal Disease: Research suggests that some greyhounds may have a genetic predisposition to severe, persistent periodontal disease that remains even with good dental care.
Left untreated, the high bacterial load can lead to severe gum disease (periodontitis), which causes gums to recede, tooth roots to become exposed, and, if the infection enters the bloodstream, it can affect the heart, liver and kidneys.
Signs of dental issues include:
- Bad breath (halitosis)
- Red, swollen or bleeding gums
- Reluctance to eat, dropping food or chewing on one side
- Excessive drooling
- Pawing at the mouth
Now that you know the warning signs, what steps can you take as a greyhound owner to tackle this problem?
- Daily Brushing: The most effective way to prevent tartar buildup. If your hound is not a fan of the brush, try a small piece of gauze soaked in a solution such as Denta-Hex and wipe the mouth. Pay particular attention to the rear of the mouth.
- Professional Cleanings: Regular veterinary dental cleanings (under anesthesia) are necessary for advanced tartar. Ask your vet if they offer a discount in February, which is National Pet Dental Health Month.
- Dietary Adjustments: Hard kibble or dental-specific diets can help reduce plaque.
- Dental Toys/Chews: Provide appropriate, safe chews to help clean teeth.
Whatever you call them, do yourself — and your hound — a favor and keep those teeth as clean as you can. Your pocketbook and your hound will thank you.
Always moving forward,
Nancy