The Care for Dogs After Teeth Are Pulled

Your dog may need its teeth to be pulled, or extracted, for a variety of reasons. Generally, regardless of the reason, the post-operative after-care is consistent. Following your veterinarian's advice and medication protocol is essential to maintaining your dog's health. Failure to follow guidelines prescribed for your dog can lead to infection, additional pain or other serious problems.

  1. Diet the Day of Extraction

    • The day that your dog has a tooth extraction, remember that it went under general anesthesia and therefore fasted prior to the procedure. By the time you take your pet home, it has likely been about 24 hours since it has eaten anything; plus, anesthesia and medications can cause nausea. Offer your dog small amounts of water periodically; do not allow it to drink large amounts. That evening, give your dog a small, soft, bland meal that is easy on its stomach, such as cooked rice with chicken broth.

    Follow-Up Diet

    • After that first day, you may resume your dog's previous diet. However, keep in mind that its mouth may be quite sore from the extractions and will need soft food for a couple weeks. If it is on a dry diet, moisten the food by soaking it in water and mashing thoroughly before feeding. Or, switch to a canned food diet. If your veterinarian recommends a special diet for your dog, be sure to follow her protocol.

    Antibiotics

    • Whenever a tooth is extracted, the alveolar space is exposed and thus the gums are sutured shut to prevent any debris from getting into the space. However, infections can still occur and so your dog will be put on antibiotics for a couple weeks. It is vital that you never skip a dose and that you follow your veterinarian's prescription protocol. Keep in mind some antibiotics need to be given with food to avoid upset stomach.

    Pain Medication

    • Some dogs only need very minor extractions and thus aren't in any pain after the procedure. Other dogs will be quite sore for many days. Your veterinarian may prescribe pain medication to help with this soreness. If your veterinarian dose not offer any type of pain medication, ask him for some or ask why none is being prescribed.

    Exercise/Activity

    • Your dog may be quite exhausted from its ordeal for a day or two after the procedure. Once it regains its normal energy, you may continue its typical exercise routine. If going outside, avoid allowing it to chew on or eat anything that could cause infection or further damage. Keeping your dog on a leash during walks is helpful for monitoring oral behavior.

    Brushing

    • To avoid future tooth extractions and to maintain your dog's quality of life, brush your dog's teeth at least three times per week. Use a veterinary toothpaste and toothbrush. You may begin brushing the teeth the week that the extractions were performed, but be careful to avoid the areas where the teeth were removed.