Mars, Incorporated (Mars) has launched a new AI-powered digital health tool that helps pet owners monitor their dog’s dental health with a smartphone photo.

The multinational manufacturer of confectionery, pet food, and other food said that the move forms part of a $1 billion digital investment in its pet nutrition business.

GREENIES Canine Dental Check, which is now available in the US, works with an image of a dog's teeth and gums using a smartphone.

The tool scans for signs of tartar build-up and gum irritation in seconds, using an AI model trained on over 53,000 images of dog mouths.

Mars said that pet owners receive easy-to-understand results, along with recommendations on next steps.

Users can also consult a licensed veterinary technician via the company's PETconnect by GREENIES service.

According to the Waltham Petcare Science Institute, the science hub for Mars Petcare, 80 per cent of dogs suffer from gum disease but most pet owners remain unaware.

The company also plans to expand its digital health portfolio throughout 2025 to offer tools that provide real time insights into overall wellbeing using an AI-powered tool designed to analyse a dog’s feces and monitor stool consistency, which may provide insights into their digestion and health.

“For 90 years and counting, Mars has been making pet parenting better and now we’re making it easier than ever to monitor and support their pet’s health," said Ikdeep Singh, global president of Mars Pet Nutrition. "GREENIES Canine Dental Check is just the beginning.

"By bringing together our iconic brands, and expertise across our science, diagnostics, veterinary and digital teams, we’re providing pet parents with the tools they need to better understand and care for their pets every day.

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