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Getting a child to brush their teeth can be difficult enough. Brushing your dog’s teeth can be downright difficult. Most dog owners have no problem remembering to brush their canine friend's coat but fewer brush their dog’s teeth. Despite the difficulties that come with brushing their teeth it is something that every dog owner should do.
Dental hygiene is important with your pet, too!
First, why should your dog have its teeth brushed? For exactly the same reasons that you brush your teeth. By brushing it helps to remove plaque buildup that will reduce bad breath and it helps to fight tooth decay and gum disease. Simple enough right?
Some owners will give their dog a bone or a chew toy to clean their teeth. There are numerous products on the market and if you choose this as an option just make sure that it is safe for your dog. This can help to build up stronger teeth and can clean the teeth but it is no substitute for an actual cleaning of the teeth.
Special toothpaste for my dog?
For those who want to do this at home there are a few things to consider. First having the right equipment for the job is essential so the purchase of a specialty canine toothbrush is a must and use canine toothpaste. This toothpaste is not only less irritating as human toothpaste can irritate their gums but is flavored like meat or something desirable to them. The location that this is performed is also important. Make sure it has good lighting, it is important for you to be able to see. The timing is also important. Choose a time when your dog is calm. Just like getting an irritated child to do something can be difficult it is the same way with your dog.
Test the waters first, then open wide doggie!
Before brushing let your dog taste the toothpaste. Put a little on your finger and let them lick it. When you start you may have to hold their lips back so that you can get to the gums. For most dogs that have been through obedience school they are used to having their mouth handled by humans and it is no big deal. Brush their teeth and gums just like you do yours going around all sides of the tooth gently as possible. For some dogs they may not let you clean the inside surfaces of their teeth, this is normal. Also make sure you get the teeth farthest back, the upper molars and canine teeth. These teeth tend to build up the most plaque and tartar and the buildup can come quickly.
When finished make sure that you praise your canine companion for their good temperament and reward them with a treat. After brushing do their favorite activity with them, whether it is going for a walk, playing in the backyard or whatever it is. This creates a positive experience for your dog and if they know that a treat is in it for them they will be much more apt to go through the experience again.
Need help with a brushing? Give us a ring!
This may not be something that you have time for or may not be able to do yourself, which is why at Doggie Do'little we offer this as a service to our customers and even for those who do brush their dog’s teeth it is a good idea to have them professionally cleaned at least once a year. Doing so can keep your dog’s teeth cleaner and lead to a longer and healthier life and that will keep your canine companion happy and healthy for longer.
http://pets.webmd.com/dogs/ss/slideshow-brushing-dog-teeth
http://www.akc.org/content/dog-care/articles/dazzling-dog-teeth/
https://www.cesarsway.com/dog-care/dental-care/7-tips-for-doggie-dental-care
“Anybody who doesn’t know what soap tastes like, never washed a dog.” — Franklin P. Jones
