In honor
of out upcoming dental
clinic, we thought a good dental care article was in order…
How to Brush your Dog’s
Teeth
Healthy
teeth and gums actually contributes to your pet’s overall health and, ultimately,
their lifespan. If plaque and tartar are allowed to progress to the point of an
infection, harmful bacteria can enter the bloodstream and can gradually damage
vital organs such as the heart, kidneys, and liver. Regular visits to your vet
in addition to daily brushing at home is the best way to keep your dog’s teeth
healthy.
Introduce the Idea
Slowly introduce your dog to an oral care routine. First,
get them comfortable with you touching their mouth and teeth. Gently touch the outside
of their cheeks and lips and reward them. Gradually introduce a dab of pet
toothpaste on your finger, letting the dog taste it. Never use toothpaste
designed for humans, as it can ingredients that are harmful to dogs. Plus, your
dog will like the taste of dog toothpaste much better, and it is designed to be
swallowed! A dilution of baking soda and water can also be used instead of
toothpaste. Make sure to keep brushing sessions brief, just a couple of minutes
a day. Praise and reassure your dog to keep the experience positive.
Help dogs get used to the feel of the brush.
Place a pea
sized dab of toothpaste on a brush and use a slow circular motion to brush one
or two teeth and the adjoining gum line. Over the next several days, slowly increase the
number of teeth brushed. Brush in a circular motion, concentrating on the
outside surfaces of the teeth and gum lines. If a dog
does not like the toothbrush, you can try wrapping your finger with a piece of
gauze and scrubbing the teeth in a circular motion.
Protip
Dogs are creatures of habit, so try to brush your
pet’s teeth at least 2-3 times a week. Routine is key. In order to
make tooth brushing and maintenance a positive experience for all, make sure to
use treats and lavish praise upon your dog.
