A veterinarian says that if you want your pet to avoid foul breath, brush your dog's teeth every day and get a dentist to check them every six months.

By not brushing their teeth daily, Dr Michael Hardcastle said that 98 per cent of pet owners were failing to meet basic health care needs of their pets.

A major cause of pain and discomfort was tartar that quickly built up on dogs' teeth.

He said, "Every pet owner should do what they can to prevent this problem. The ideal way to maintain canine oral health is a daily cleaning routine."

After a survey by Dentastix which markets dog dental health products, he made his comments. Of their pet's oral hygiene, the survey showed that more than a third of dog owners were critical, yet the percentage of people who did not brush their dog's teeth at all was 61 per cent.

About 55 per cent felt the need of brushing their dogs' teeth and 15 per cent people clearly stated that their dog did not like brushing.

About four per cent said it was too dangerous and seven per cent just said that they didn't know how to brush their dog's teeth.

Dr Hardcastle said, "Adult dogs should have a dental check every six months - the same as recommended for people."

Biscuits were the most regular dental care for dogs and others that were good for dental care were animal bones and dog chews.