Home dental care is one of the best ways to help keep your dog's teeth and gums healthy. Start as early as possible so he/she will become accustomed to the brushing process. Consistent tooth brushing helps to prevent gum disease and other oral issues that can ultimately result in damage to your dog’s liver, heart, and other vital organs.
Dog owners spend a lot of money to get a high quality dog bed and top notch dog food. But often can forget about brushing their dogs teeth. Teeth cleaning can be easily overlooked. If you’re not sure how to brush your dog’s teeth, and you haven’t started a routine yet, you can start today!
According to the American Veterinary Dental Society, over 80% of dogs have some kind of dental issue by age 3.
Selecting a Toothbrush
The first step to having those nice pearly whites is finding the perfect canine toothbrush. Dog toothbrushes are similar to human toothbrushes, but are smaller and have softer bristles. Another option? A finger toothbrush, which fits over your finger and makes cleaning those hard-to-reach areas much easier to clean.
Selecting a Toothpaste
Never use human toothpaste. Why? Human toothpaste contains fluoride, which is extremely toxic to dogs. Find a pet-friendly toothpaste they have all sorts of flavors like poultry or peanut butter.
How to brush your dogs teeth?
Make sure you're in a spot where your dog is comfortable. Don't stand above your dog, hold him/her down, or take a threatening stance. Instead, try kneeling or sitting in front of or to the side of him/her. Gauge your dog's anxiety level. If it’s too upset, stop, and try again later. Be sure to keep this a positive experience!
Rub your finger on the upper gums and teeth. This will help the dog get used to the feel of something against its teeth. Make sure to use light pressure.
Put some dog toothpaste on your fingertip. Let your dog lick the toothpaste from your fingertip so that it can get used to the taste and texture.
When the dog seems ready, start using the toothpaste and toothbrush together. Lift the dogs upper lip. As you approach its teeth with the tooth brush, angle the bristles so they reach the gum line. Placing them at a angle will help the bristles massage the gum line and clear away plaque.
Brush in small circles, be sure to get the top and bottom on each side. As you move the bristles along the gum line, some light bleeding may occur. Slight bleeding every so often is OK. But ongoing or heavy bleeding may be the reason you’re brushing too aggressively or it may be a sign of gum disease. Speak with your vet for advice if this happens.
When you're finished brushing your dog's teeth, reward it with a treat or affection. Certain chews can also help you fight plaque buildup.
