People often assume that if their dog had mouth pain, he would stop eating. Not true, say Tufts health professionals Yuki Nakayama, DVM, and certified veterinary technician Kate Zukowski. They report that dogs rarely stop eating due to oral pain, getting around it by chewing on the other side, swallowing their food whole, or perhaps showing a preference for softer foods.
The takeaway: You may not realize your dog has been suffering from mouth pain until it has gotten quite bad and your pet has been suffering for some time. That’s why it’s important for your vet to check your pet’s mouth at wellness visits. She may notice a cracked tooth, tumor, infection, gum disease, or other problem that could indicate significant oral discomfort.
