How Do I Know If My Dog’s Gums Are Infected? 12 Warning Signs You Shouldn’t Ignore

Have you ever leaned in to give your furry friend a kiss and been knocked back by their breath? I used to think my dog Bella’s stinky breath was just a normal “dog thing” until our vet pointed out it was actually a sign of something more serious – gum infection,

Many pet parents don’t realize that dental health is just as important for dogs as it is for humans. In fact, according to the American Veterinary Dental College, most dogs begin showing signs of periodontal disease by just 3 years of age! That’s why knowing how to spot gum infections early can save your pup from pain and potentially serious health complications.

What Exactly Is a Gum Infection in Dogs?

Gum infection, also known as periodontal disease, is a progressive condition that damages the supporting structures of your dog’s teeth. It begins when bacteria in the mouth form plaque, which then hardens into tartar if not removed. This leads to inflammation and infection of the gums.

The tricky part? This condition often lurks silently below the gumline, with few visible symptoms until it’s advanced pretty far. That’s why regular check-ups and knowing what to look for are so important.

12 Warning Signs of Infected Gums in Dogs

Here are the key symptoms that could indicate your dog has a gum infection:

1. Bad breath (halitosis) – This is often the first and most noticeable sign. If your dog’s breath makes you recoil, it’s not normal “doggy breath” – it’s likely a sign of infection.

2. Red, swollen gums – Healthy dog gums should be pink (though some breeds naturally have pigmented gums). If they appear red, puffy, or inflamed, that’s a clear warning sign.

3. Bleeding gums – If you notice blood when your dog chews toys or after brushing their teeth, their gums are likely infected.

4. Yellow or brown tartar buildup – Look for a crusty substance along the gumline, particularly on the back teeth.

5. Receding gums – If the gums appear to be pulling away from the teeth, exposing more of the tooth than normal.

6. Difficulty eating – Your dog might chew on one side of their mouth, drop food, or seem less interested in hard kibble or treats.

7. Excessive drooling – More drool than usual could indicate mouth pain.

8. Pawing at the mouth – If your dog frequently paws at their face or mouth, they might be trying to relieve discomfort.

9. Missing or loose teeth – Advanced periodontal disease can cause teeth to become loose or fall out.

10. Behavioral changes – Dogs in pain may become more irritable, withdrawn, or less playful.

11. Swollen face or jaw – In severe cases, infections can spread, causing visible swelling.

12. Nasal discharge – Sometimes, severe dental infections in the upper teeth can spread to the nasal passages.

How Vets Diagnose Gum Infections

If you suspect your dog has a gum infection, a veterinary visit is essential. Your vet will perform a thorough oral examination, which might include:

• Visual inspection of the mouth
• Dental X-rays to assess bone loss and tooth root health
• Probing to measure pocket depth around teeth (similar to what happens at human dental checkups)

Based on findings, your vet will diagnose which stage of periodontal disease your dog has:

The Four Stages of Periodontal Disease in Dogs

Stage 1: Gingivitis

• Only the gums are inflamed
• No bone loss yet
• Still completely reversible with proper care
• You might notice slightly red gums and bad breath

Stage 2: Early Periodontitis

• Mild to moderate bone loss (less than 25%)
• Gums are redder and more inflamed
• Not reversible, but can be managed to prevent progression

Stage 3: Moderate Periodontitis

• 25-50% bone loss around affected teeth
• Visible receding gums
• Teeth may begin to loosen
• Requires aggressive treatment

Stage 4: Advanced Periodontitis

• More than 50% bone loss
• Teeth are loose or missing
• Severe pain and infection
• Often requires extractions

Can You Treat Gum Infections at Home?

While professional veterinary care is necessary for treating gum infections, there are some things you can do at home to support your dog’s dental health:

1. Regular tooth brushing – This is the gold standard for preventing plaque buildup. Use a dog-specific toothpaste (never human toothpaste).

2. Dental chews and toys – These can help reduce tartar, though they’re not a substitute for brushing.

3. Dental-specific foods – Some prescription diets are formulated to reduce plaque and tartar.

4. Water additives – These products can help reduce bacteria in your dog’s mouth.

5. Regular gum inspection – Make checking your dog’s gums part of your routine.

BUT, and this is important – home care is mostly for prevention and maintenance. If your dog already has signs of gum infection, they need professional treatment first.

Professional Treatment Options

Treatment depends on the stage of infection:

For Stage 1 (Gingivitis):

• Professional dental cleaning
• Polishing to create a smooth surface that resists plaque

For Stages 2-3:

• Deep cleaning below the gumline (scaling and root planing)
• Antibiotics may be prescribed
• More frequent follow-up cleanings

For Stage 4:

• Extraction of severely affected teeth
• Possible surgical procedures to repair gum tissue
• Pain management and antibiotics

All professional dental procedures for dogs require general anesthesia, which allows for proper cleaning below the gumline and x-rays to assess the full extent of the disease.

Is Gum Disease in Dogs Reversible?

Here’s the truth: Only Stage 1 (gingivitis) is completely reversible. Once the disease progresses to Stage 2 and beyond, the bone loss is permanent. However, with proper treatment and ongoing care, you can:

• Stop the progression of the disease
• Prevent further bone loss
• Manage pain and infection
• Maintain your dog’s remaining healthy teeth

Why Treating Gum Infections Is So Important

Untreated gum infections don’t just affect your dog’s mouth. The bacteria can enter the bloodstream and potentially cause problems in other parts of the body, including:

• Heart disease and valve infections
• Kidney and liver damage
• Increased risk of diabetes complications
• Jaw fractures (in severe cases where bone is weakened)
• Oronasal fistulas (holes between the mouth and nasal cavity)

Plus, dental disease is painful! Our dogs can’t tell us when they hurt, and they’re masters at hiding pain. By the time they show obvious signs, they’ve likely been suffering for some time.

Prevention Is Better Than Treatment

The best approach to gum infections is preventing them in the first place:

• Start dental care early – Get puppies used to having their mouths handled and teeth brushed
• Brush regularly – Daily is ideal, but a few times a week is better than nothing
• Schedule annual dental exams – Your vet can catch problems early
• Consider professional cleanings – Most dogs benefit from periodic professional cleanings

My Experience With Bella’s Gum Infection

When my dog Bella developed a gum infection, I first noticed her terrible breath during our cuddle sessions. She’d also started dropping kibble while eating, which I initially thought was just her being messy.

At her check-up, our vet pointed out the red, inflamed gums and tartar buildup. Bella needed a dental cleaning under anesthesia, and sadly, two teeth were so infected they had to be extracted.

The difference afterward was amazing – her breath improved, she ate more enthusiastically, and she seemed more playful. It made me realize she’d been in pain, but like most dogs, she’d hidden it well.

Final Thoughts: Be Your Dog’s Dental Advocate

Our dogs rely on us completely for their health care, including dental health. They can’t brush their own teeth or tell us when their gums hurt. By knowing the signs of gum infections and taking proactive steps, you can help your furry friend maintain a healthy, pain-free mouth.

Remember, that doggy “smile” isn’t just cute – it’s an important part of their overall health!

Have you noticed any signs of gum problems in your dog? Don’t wait – schedule a vet visit today. Your pup will thank you with fresher kisses and a happier, healthier life.

Gum disease in dogs looks like bad breath, red and swollen gums, visible yellow-brown tartar on teeth, bleeding from the gums, loose or missing teeth, and potentially excessive drooling. You may also notice your dog favoring one side of their mouth when eating, dropping food, or having less appetite, all indicating pain and infection.

An early stage gum infection, known as gingivitis, presents with symptoms like red, swollen, or tender gums, bleeding gums during brushing or flossing, and persistent bad breath. This is a reversible condition caused by plaque buildup that can be reversed with consistent good oral hygiene, including daily brushing and flossing, and professional dental cleanings.