What is Plaque Off?
Plaque Off is a natural supplement intended to help combat plaque buildup on dogs’ teeth. It contains a blend of ingredients like seaweed, omega-3 fatty acids from salmon oil, and antioxidants.[1] The main active ingredient is a specific strain of seaweed called Ascophyllum nodosum.[2] This seaweed has been shown to help prevent tartar and plaque from sticking to teeth when chewed or eaten regularly.
Plaque Off works by changing the charge of plaque bacteria in the mouth, which makes it harder for the plaque to adhere to teeth surfaces. It also blocks some of the receptors that bind plaque to teeth. The omega-3s help reduce inflammation while the antioxidants support immune health.
The intended benefits of Plaque Off for dogs are cleaner teeth, fresher breath, reduced plaque buildup and risk of periodontal disease. The natural ingredients make it safe for regular use. It can be given as a supplement to support dental health alongside brushing.
How Plaque Can Make Dogs Sick
Plaque is a sticky film made up of bacteria, saliva, and food particles that accumulates on a dog’s teeth. As plaque buildup increases over time, it can lead to serious dental conditions if not removed properly through brushing or professional cleanings.
According to the Purina article “Dog Plaque: Everything You Need to Know” (https://www.purina.co.uk/articles/dogs/health/dental/dangers-of-too-much-plaque), plaque that is not removed can harden into tartar. Tartar below the gumline leads to periodontal disease, which causes inflammation and infection of the gums and tooth roots. This can be very painful and lead to tooth decay and tooth loss if left untreated.
Common signs of plaque buildup and periodontal disease in dogs include (https://www.aceanimal.com/site/blog/2022/04/29/plaque-and-tartar-in-dogs-what-it-is-and-how-to-treat-it):
- Bad breath
- Red, swollen, or bleeding gums
- Loss of appetite
- Pawing at the mouth
- Yellow or brown buildup on teeth
Left untreated, plaque can lead to painful infections,tooth loss, and even issues in other parts of the body due to the spread of bacteria. Regular dental care is essential for dogs to prevent plaque buildup and associated health problems.
Potential Side Effects of Plaque Off
Plaque Off is generally considered safe, but some potential side effects have been reported in dogs taking this supplement. The main potential side effects include gastrointestinal upset such as vomiting and diarrhea. These side effects are often mild and temporary, but can be concerning for dog owners.
The potential gastrointestinal side effects are likely caused by the main ingredient in Plaque Off – seaweed or algae extract. Large amounts of seaweed can irritate the digestive tract in some dogs, leading to symptoms like vomiting or diarrhea. The rich iodine content in seaweed could also play a role. Additionally, some dogs may have sensitivities or allergies to compounds in seaweed.
According to veterinary reviews, side effects from Plaque Off are rare and usually minor. If side effects do occur, they often last for a short period of 1-3 days as the dog’s body adjusts to the supplement. Plaque Off should be stopped immediately if severe vomiting, diarrhea or other concerning symptoms develop. Most side effects resolve on their own once the supplement is discontinued. But in some cases, veterinary attention may be required.
Overall, Plaque Off side effects appear relatively uncommon and not serious based on available evidence (Research study, Veterinary review). But dog owners should be aware of potential gastrointestinal issues and monitor their pet closely when starting this supplement.
Ingredients That Could Cause Issues
While PlaqueOff is generally regarded as safe, it does contain ingredients that can cause problems for some dogs. The main ingredient that tends to lead to sensitivity is kelp. Kelp contains a high amount of iodine, which can cause side effects in dogs prone to thyroid issues (Chewy).
Certain breeds like Retrievers, Poodles, Boxers, and Huskies are more prone to thyroid problems and may react poorly to the iodine in kelp. Side effects can include vomiting, diarrhea, appetite changes, and lethargy. Dogs with underlying thyroid disease are also at higher risk of experiencing iodine toxicity from supplements containing kelp (Amazon).
If your dog is sensitive to iodine or prone to thyroid issues, there are some alternative plaque supplements. Options include zinc and enzyme based formulas that do not contain kelp or iodine. Consulting your veterinarian can help determine the best plaque supplement for your individual dog (Swedencare).
Proper Dosage of Plaque Off
It’s important to follow the recommended dosing instructions for Plaque Off based on your dog’s weight to ensure effectiveness and avoid potential side effects. According to the PlaqueOff website, the suggested dosing is:
- Cats & Dogs <10kg: 1 scoop daily
- Dogs 10-25kg: 1-2 scoops daily
- Dogs >25kg: 2-3 scoops daily
The dosage can be scaled up or down within the recommended ranges based on your dog’s weight and your veterinarian’s guidance. Always follow the instructions on the product label and consult your vet if you have any concerns.
Significantly exceeding the recommended dosage raises the risk of potential side effects like upset stomach, diarrhea or vomiting. Overdosing over an extended period may also lead to nutrient imbalances. It’s important to stick to the suggested amounts for your dog’s safety.
If you miss a dose, just resume the regular dosing schedule – do not give extra to try to “catch up.” Monitor your dog closely when first starting Plaque Off and contact your vet if any concerning symptoms develop.
Administering Plaque Off Safely
When giving Plaque Off to your dog, it’s important to administer it properly to avoid potential issues. Here are some tips for safely administering Plaque Off:
Mixing with Food vs. Direct Dosing: Many owners find it easiest to mix the Plaque Off powder into their dog’s regular food. This helps mask any taste and ensures the full dosage is consumed. However, some dogs may spit out powder-coated food. In this case, you can try offering it directly in a small amount of peanut butter, cream cheese, or another “high value” treat. Just be sure your dog swallows it completely.
Avoid Overdosing: It’s important not to exceed the recommended Plaque Off dosage for your dog’s weight. Overdosing on algae ingredients may cause gastrointestinal upset. Carefully measure doses and don’t double up without vet approval. If your dog seems to have sensitivity to the initial dose, consult your vet about adjusting the amount or frequency (Source).
Ensure Proper Digestion: Give Plaque Off with a meal or treat that contains some fat or oil. This helps your dog’s body absorb and digest the algae ingredients properly. If giving on an empty stomach, follow with a small meal. Also, stick to the recommended administration schedule and don’t give more doses per day than advised.
Monitoring Your Dog Closely
It’s important to watch your dog closely after starting PlaqueOff or any new supplement to check for potential side effects. According to one veterinary review, side effects like vomiting and diarrhea are rare but can occur (https://ablepaws.co.uk/proden-plaqueoff-powder-review-vets-assessment/). While the manufacturer states there are no known side effects, your dog’s experience may vary (https://www.plaqueoff.gr/en/f-a-q/).
If your dog experiences vomiting, diarrhea, or other concerning symptoms after starting PlaqueOff, discontinue use and contact your veterinarian. They can help determine if the supplement is causing issues for your dog.
It’s also wise to have your veterinarian examine your dog’s teeth and gums periodically while using PlaqueOff. They can check for any adverse effects and also monitor the supplement’s effectiveness. One study found improvements in gum health markers in dogs after using an Ascophyllum nodosum based powder, so your vet may be able to gauge benefits through oral exams (https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6080642/).
Careful monitoring and vet check-ins can help ensure PlaqueOff is safe and providing dental benefits for your dog.
Using Plaque Off With Other Treatments
Plaque Off can be an effective part of an overall dental care regimen for dogs when used properly. According to the PlaqueOff.gr FAQ page, “ProDen PlaqueOff® can be used alongside brushing and dental chews as part of a dental care programme for your pet.”
It’s important to keep up with regular professional cleanings and dental exams with your veterinarian. Plaque Off is not meant to replace professional dental cleanings, only to reduce tartar buildup between cleanings. You can continue using dental treats and chews along with Plaque Off as well. According to OnlyNaturalPet.com, “Begin to see results in 2-8 weeks” when using Plaque Off consistently.
Check with your vet about any potential synergistic effects of using Plaque Off with other dental care products for your dog. Your vet may have specific recommendations on incorporating Plaque Off into your dog’s dental regimen based on their health history and needs.
Using Plaque Off as directed along with brushing, professional cleanings, and other vet-recommended products can help improve your dog’s dental health. But be sure to monitor your dog closely and ask your vet any questions about incorporating Plaque Off into their routine.
When to Stop Giving Plaque Off
There are a few instances where you may need to discontinue giving your dog Plaque Off:
If side effects develop – Some dogs may experience side effects like vomiting, diarrhea, or skin irritation from ingredients in Plaque Off. These side effects tend to be mild but if they persist or worsen, you should stop giving the supplement and consult your vet (https://www.plaqueoff.gr/en/f-a-q/).
For dogs sensitive to ingredients – Plaque Off contains kelp, alfalfa, and zinc which can cause stomach upset or allergic reactions in some dogs. If your dog seems sensitive to any ingredients, discontinue use and talk to your vet about alternative dental products (https://us.swedencare.com/product/proden-plaqueoff-powder-dog/).
If not seeing improvement in dental health – You should notice a difference in tartar buildup within 3-8 weeks according to the manufacturer (https://www.plaqueoff.gr/en/dog-products/plaqueoff-powder-for-dogs/). If you don’t see any positive changes after 2-3 months, Plaque Off may not be effective for your dog.
Alternative Plaque Supplements
There are several effective veterinarian recommended natural alternatives to ProDen PlaqueOff for promoting dental health and reducing plaque in dogs:
SeaDent contains a natural blend of kelp, minerals, and peppermint that supports oral health. The main ingredient, Ascophyllum nodosum seaweed, contains over 60 trace minerals shown to reduce plaque and tartar buildup (Swedencare).
Plaque Attack contains a blend of seaweed, enzymes, probiotics, and zinc that breaks down plaque and freshens breath. The key ingredients are Ascophyllum nodosum, amylase, zinc gluconate, and lactobacillus acidophilus (PetMD).
Tropiclean Fresh Breath Dental Gel contains natural ingredients like green tea extract, neem oil, and grapefruit seed extract to reduce plaque and tartar. It comes highly rated by veterinarians (Amazon).
