According to the company, gum disease is five times more common in dogs than humans, as dogs have a more alkaline mouth, promoting plaque formation. The company also says that studies have shown 80% of dogs suffer some form of gum disease before they are three years old.
The survey found most owners associate bad breath, tooth loss and inflamed gums (76%, 67% and 65% respectively) with poor oral hygiene.
However, many dog owners were unaware it could lead to more serious consequences with only 11% identifying heart disease as a potential cost of poor oral hygiene and only 7% understanding the liver can be affected.
The company has produced a YouTube video with Marc Abraham MRCVS and behaviourist Carolyn Menteith about canine oral care and Pettura Oral Health - a gel applied directly to dogs' teeth and gums to help maintain oral hygiene.
PS: Whilst you're here, take a moment to see our latest job opportunities for vets.
"Half of dog owners don't clean their teeth" - wow, never realised us dog owners were so hygienically challenged! Are cat owners so lax with personal hygiene too? Or should it read "Half of dog owners don't clean their pets' teeth"....
Or should it read "Half of dog owners don't clean their pets' teeth." Well yes, Utlendigur, possibly, but it's likely that more people will read my version!