How to Brush my Dog's Teeth
Some people wonder why they should have to go through the bother of brushing their dog’s teeth. My answer to them is why do they go through the bother of brushing their own? The same reasons that regular brushing is good for humans are the same reasons you should brush your dogs. Regular brushing prevents the build up of plaque, which causes gums to recede and opens pockets along the root line. This can lead to tooth loss, as well as make eating painful. Diseased teeth and gums can also put a lot of pressure on a dog’s immune system and internal organs, which leads to premature aging. This is especially true in older dogs, where dirty teeth and gums can lead to bacterial infections in other parts of the body, especially the heart. Another minor effect of diseased teeth and gums is that it can lead to “doggy breath’, which most humans do not appreciate.
You know how you go to a dentist to give your teeth a thorough cleaning? Well, you
dog needs the same treatment, except he needs to go to
You can lengthen the time between doggy dentist (veterinarian) visits by learning how to brush your dogs teeth. Like all training, it is best to start when your dog is a puppy. Older dogs can learn, but it will most likely take more time and patience on your part. Here’s what you do. Buy a children’s toothbrush, or one specifically designed for a dog. Make sure you buy canine toothpaste as well, as human toothpaste contains chemicals that are not safe for you dog. In addition, human toothpaste will taste foul to your dog, and canine toothpaste does not have to be rinsed. If you do not have access to canine toothpaste, baking soda can be used as a substitute. Have your dog lie down on your lap, and gently open his lips with your fingers. Gently rub the outside of his teeth with the toothbrush. When you try this, your dog will most likely try and chew on the brush. If this happens, take the brush away and gently scold him. Repeat this process. Try to brush a few teeth at a time, and then reward your dog with generous praise. Again, this may take weeks for your dog to understand what you are trying to do, but it can be done. Once he is trained, you should look to brush your dog’s teeth 2 to 3 times a week in between dental (veterinarian) visits.
It may be a pain at first, but your dog will appreciate having clean healthy teeth. I
hope this helps!
- Grover
PS Vet Products Direct has many products you can try to clean your dog's teeth and keep his breath fresh. For more information, click here to go to their website and then do a search on "teeth".
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a veterinarian.