Proper dog dental care is essential for your canine pet. Approximately 80% of dogs have signs of dental disease by the time they turn three years old. Your dog may not like having his teeth brushed, but you can make the experience a bit more pleasant for both of you. Here are some fantastic tips on how to brush your dog’s teeth.
Choose the Right Time
Brushing your dog’s teeth can be made easier by choosing a time when they are the most relaxed and the house is quiet and calm. An ideal time would be after they’ve had plenty of exercises and are more willing to sit still. Go slowly and quit if your dog gets overly agitated. It will take time for your pet to get used to this procedure. You can always increase the time for this training in increments over time until they get used to it.
Select the Right Tools
You’ll want to select a toothbrush that is made specifically for dogs. You can use finger brushes for dogs that weigh less than 30 pounds. Toothbrushes with longer handles will give you a better reach for larger dogs. You’ll also want to make sure you get toothpaste made specifically for dogs. Human toothpaste contains certain ingredients that may make your dog sick enough for a trip to the animal hospital.
Get Your Dog Used to the Brushing Motion
Before you start using the veterinarian approved dog toothpaste and brush, you’ll need to get him used to the feel of the brushing motion. Get down on their level and let them lick your fingers after dipping them in peanut butter or something similar they love to eat. As they’re licking, move your fingers along their teeth and gums like you would if you were brushing them. Repeat this process over the next 3 days. Then start introducing the dog toothpaste and brush.
Try The Toothbrush
Start introducing the toothbrush by allowing the dog to lick the toothbrush, Add toothpaste and start brushing the front top teeth using small circular motions. Give your dog plenty of praise. Then move to brush the back teeth and sides on the top. Repeat the process with the bottom teeth.
If you notice some light bleeding, it’s perfectly okay. However, heavy bleeding can be a sign of gum disease or brushing aggressively. Consult a specialty veterinarian for advice.
End On a Positive Note
Teeth brushing isn’t a natural experience for dogs. Make sure you frequently praise your pet throughout the entire process. Consider giving a treat each step along the way while they are learning this new skill.
Dog dental care may not be the most enjoyable experience you and your pet have, but it could save your pet’s life in the future. Ignoring the issue can lead to expensive veterinary services later on. If the buildup gets too severe, your dog will need to be given anesthesia to remove it. By keeping your dog’s mouth clean and healthy, you’ll both have something to smile about!
At Southern Arizona Veterinary Specialty and Emergency Center we are happy to provide a wide range of veterinary specialty and emergency services. It is important to have a “primary care” veterinarian to keep your new family member healthy and happy with routine vaccinations and health checks. But if you find yourself in the midst of a veterinary emergency, our team of experienced veterinarians is here to help. When it comes to visiting animal hospitals, we understand that the experience can be full of stress and worry, so we aim to make things as simple as possible. For more information, get in touch with one of our experts today.
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