As pet owners, we often undermine the importance of maintaining our dog’s dental hygiene. Ignorance towards this aspect of our furry friend’s overall health could lead to severe dental diseases, tooth loss, and even heart or kidney problems. Hence, it’s crucial to incorporate regular teeth brushing sessions in your dog’s routine. Brushing your dog’s teeth at home can be a bit tricky, especially if your dog is fidgety, anxious or fearful. However, with patience, practice, and the right tools, you can make it a hassle-free process that benefits your pet’s health. In this article, we will discuss the proper ways to brush your dog’s teeth, how often, and common mistakes to avoid.
Is Cleaning Your Dog’s Teeth Necessary?
First and foremost, let’s get this out of the way – cleaning your dog’s teeth is absolutely necessary for maintaining their overall health and preventing serious dental problems. Just like humans, dogs can develop plaque and tartar build-up on their teeth over time, which can lead to bad breath, gum disease, and tooth decay. These issues can, in turn, lead to more serious health problems, such as heart disease or kidney disease. Regular brushing with a dog-specific toothbrush and toothpaste can help prevent these issues and keep your dog’s teeth and gums healthy. Additionally, providing dental chews, toys, and bones can help remove plaque and tartar in between brushings. Ignoring dental care for your furry friend can lead to painful and costly dental procedures, so it is crucial to prioritize their oral hygiene.
How Often Should You Brush Your Dogs Teeth? Every Day?
Yes, in a perfect world, you should brush your dog’s teeth twice a day. Like humans, dogs require daily dental hygiene to keep their teeth and gums healthy. A regular brushing routine can prevent buildup and neglected dental health will also cause bad breath, and at some times, infections. Regular brushing not only helps you to maintain your dog’s dental hygiene but also ensures that any potential dental issues are identified early on, when they are much easier and cheaper to treat.
While some may find it challenging to fit in a daily brushing session into their busy schedule, it’s recommended that you brush your dog’s teeth at least three times a week. You can acquire special toothbrushes and pet toothpaste meant explicitly for dogs at many pet stores. These toothbrushes are designed to be gentle on your pet’s gums and teeth. Also, they come in various sizes and shapes suitable for dogs of different breeds and sizes. And the toothpaste comes in different types and flavors, so if your dog isn’t responding to a particular type of toothpaste, there are always other options.
Does Brushing Your Dog’s Teeth Help Bad Breath?
Like humans, dogs can also suffer from bad breath. This is due to the bacteria and plaque buildup in their mouth. Regular brushing can help remove the plaque and bacteria, which is the primary cause of bad breath in dogs. But, be wary that there are other underlying conditions that cause bad breath in dogs, and that it might not always be the fact that you missed a day or two of brushing their teeth. While it may be challenging to train your dog to accept teeth brushing, it is a task that can be accomplished with patience and determination.
How To Brush Your Dog’s Teeth For Optimal Oral Health
Many pet owners are hesitant to try as they are unsure of how to go about it. With consistency and a little effort, brushing a dog’s teeth can become a part of your regular routine in no time. Pro Tip: A good time to brush your dog’s teeth is after a meal when they are relaxed.
Get Your Dog Comfortable With The Toothbrush
There are a few tips to overcome their resistance and make toothbrushing a comfortable experience for them. One way is to gradually desensitize them by introducing the toothbrush and toothpaste in a non-threatening way. Let your dog sniff and lick the toothpaste off of the brush. From there, you can start petting the muzzle with the toothbrush bristles and allowing your pet to taste the toothpaste from off the toothbrush. Allow them to get accustomed to having a brush in and around their mouth. Over time, you can gradually build up to using the toothbrush itself. You can then start by brushing the surfaces of the teeth, then the front teeth and gradually working your way to the back teeth. Use circular motions and try to brush both the front and back surfaces of their teeth. Be gentle and patient, offering rewards and praise to reinforce positive behavior.
It’s important to pay close attention to your dog’s reaction and stop the process if they become too uncomfortable or upset. While it may take some time to get your dog comfortable with toothbrushing, the benefits to their oral health are numerous. So, don’t give up and keep trying different methods until you find one that works for you and your furry friend! Teach your dog that only positive things come from the brush being near your dog’s mouth.
Offer High-Quality Treats To Motivate Them
Another option is to use high-quality treats as a motivator for toothbrushing success. This method should be used in conjunction with the gradual desensitization method mentioned above if just attempting to desensitize them isn’t working for you. It is recommended to reward your dog after each positive experience with the toothbrush and toothpaste with a tasty treat to reinforce positive behavior. Look for treats that are low-calorie and even better if they are also specifically formulated for dental health, as they can help promote healthy teeth and gums. Over time, as your dog gets used to brushing their teeth and has become desensitized, it is recommended to gradually decrease the number of treats you give them.
How to Brush Your Dog’s Teeth When They Won’t Let You
For those who absolutely can’t brush their pet’s teeth, there are other options, including finger brushing, gauze wipes, dental chews, dental toys, and dental water additives. These products and methods help in the maintenance of your dog’s health and fresher breath when all else fails.
Using Gauze To Brush Your Dog’s Teeth
If your furry friend is resistant to having their teeth brushed, using gauze on their teeth may be a gentle alternative. Simply wrap your finger with a small piece of gauze and dampen it with warm water. Gently pull your dog’s lip out to the side and slip the gauze-wrapped finger in the corner of their mouth. You can make several gentle passes over each tooth, cleaning away plaque and tartar buildup. Repeat this process a few times until your dog is comfortable with the action. Using gauze is a great introduction to regular tooth brushing and can also be used for upkeep in between brushing sessions. Reward your pup with plenty of praises and treats for their cooperation.
Using Dog Dental Wipes To Clean Your Dog’s Teeth
Dog dental wipes are specially designed to remove plaque and tartar buildup, while also freshening your dog’s breath. Like using gauze, you are meant to slip the dental wipe on your finger and gently rub it over all your dog’s teeth. It contains cleaning solutions that can help get rid of build up on your dog’s teeth and gums. These wipes are perfect for fussy dogs who don’t like to have their teeth brushed, but don’t mind their owner’s hands and fingers around their mouth and face.
Finger Brushing Your Dog’s Teeth
Rubbing your finger onto your dog’s teeth with toothpaste is another alternative to traditional toothbrushing. To start, you’ll want to get your dog comfortable with licking toothpaste from your finger. Once they’re comfortable with this, you can try rubbing the toothpaste onto their teeth with your finger. This technique can help remove plaque and keep your dog’s teeth clean and healthy. Just be sure to choose a toothpaste that is safe for dogs and never use human toothpaste, as it contains ingredients that can be harmful to your furry friend.
Dental Oral Sprays and Gels for Cleaning Your Dog’s Teeth
Oral sprays and gels are applied directly to your dog’s teeth and gums, making it easier for owners to maintain their pet’s oral hygiene. It’s important to choose products that are specifically formulated for dogs and are safe for them to use. Oral sprays and gels can be a temporary alternative to brushing, but remember that they should not be used as a replacement for regular oral care. Incorporating these products into a comprehensive dental care routine, along with other methods such as rubbing toothpaste with your finger or using dental wipes will help your dog maintain good dental health.
Dental Chews and Dental Toys for Cleaning Your Dog’s Teeth
Dental chews, dental treats and dental toys work by promoting chewing, which helps scrape away plaque and tartar buildup on teeth. Some dental chews are also formulated with special ingredients, which can help enhance their cleaning power. Similarly, some dental toys are designed with ridges or bumps that can help clean teeth as your dog chews and plays. However, it’s important to note that while dental chews and toys can be good for your dog’s dental health, they should not be used as a substitute for regular teeth brushing or professional dental cleanings. Additionally, some dental chews and toys can pose a choking hazard for dogs, so always monitor your pet while they chew and remove any broken or small pieces. When it comes to choosing the right products for your dog, be sure to only choose products that are veterinary approved or products that are specifically recommended by your veterinarian.
Healthy Dog Treats to Make Teeth Brushing A Positive Experience
Rewarding your dog with Pampered Pets USA treats is a win-win for both you and your furry friend. Not only are these treats healthy and natural, made with whole-food ingredients, but they are TASTY. We have 5 Five-Star Flavors to choose from that will have your dog drooling for more. Our Five-Star flavors are Peanut Butter Dog Treats, Oatmeal & Pumpkin Dog Treats, Roasted Turkey & Sweet Potato Dog Treats, Cheddar Cheese & Bacon Dog Treats and Cowboy Classic Dog Treats. As a pet owner, it’s important to provide your dog with treats that not only satisfy their cravings but also contribute to their overall health. These high-value treats not only taste great, but they also keep your pet’s focus, encouraging them to listen so they can have another bite. Once you’re finished brushing your dog’s teeth, reward them with a high-value treat and make the experience positive.
By choosing Pampered Pets USA treats, you can keep your dog healthy, happy, and entertained, while also keeping their teeth and gums in tip-top shape. So why not give your dog the best of both worlds and reward them with some guilt-free treats that will make them smile from ear to ear.
