Brushing Dog Teeth: A How To Guide

dog brushing teeth Just as on humans, dogs also require a healthy smile as well. Most doctors will advise you that one can tell a lot about a person and their overall current state of health just by what their teeth look like. Brushing your dog’s teeth is a simple process once you have a good system down. The following tips may be just what you were seeking to gain a glowing grin from your pup!

Why Should You Brush Your Dog’s Teeth, Anyways?

There are endless reasons why a dog owner should care properly for their canine’s teeth, but the most obvious is the onset of plaque building up over time. Many dogs suffer from gingivitis and even periodontal disease. If your dog develops this disease they are susceptible to more serious aliments involving the kidneys, liver, and heart.

Dog Teeth Brushing Supplies:

Now that you know why it is so crucial to care for your pup’s teeth, you will need some supplies to get the job done. A toothbrush for starters is essential, which you can locate inside any pet supply store, generally they are made with bristles that are a bit softer than a human toothbrush. They manufacture ones that are shaped as a regular one with a handle and ones that are to fit directly over the finger as well. An enzymatic toothpaste is a popular vet recommendation, but finding one that your dog enjoys the taste or flavor of seems to be the most helpful. To make the process even simpler, the suppliers have now designed pastes that are flavored in beef and poultry flavors to encourage your pet to try it.

Brushing Your Dog’s Teeth:

Getting to the best part of the hygiene lesson, the actual brushing. While some may fear the dog will not allow them to perform this task, most actually are not too bothered by it as they love any type of attention from their owners. Do not attempt to hold back or restrain the animal with any force as this is what will cause a healthy fear in them for future brushings. Instead, hold your hand out with the finger brush and even some paste on it and allow them to lick or chew on it a bit. They will allow you to advance with the brushing once you have gained their trust with the products.

Other Dog Brushing Tips and Advice:

Some people feel it is easier to use some other alternative dental cleaning products on the side in between brushing for optimal dental health. These are items such as rubber food toys, and rope toys that are made specifically for cleaning teeth. Some bones can even aide with bad dog breathe as well.

A Final Note:

All new dog owners have a growing period where they must learn about how to care for their dog. Some owners even get to the point where they feel they cannot complete certain tasks with their canine and they take the animal to the vet to have their teeth cleaned. Do not be discouraged, this will be an easy task the more often you complete it.