Why You Should Brush Your Dog’s Teeth
Taking care of your dog’s teeth is a crucial part of their overall health. Just like humans, dogs need good oral hygiene to stay happy and healthy.
In fact, over 80% of dogs over the age of three have some form of periodontal disease. Left untreated, poor dental hygiene can lead to bad breath (dog breath!), painful dental disease, and even affect major organs like the heart, liver, and kidneys.
The good news is that you can prevent many of these problems by regularly brushing your dog’s teeth. This article provides a comprehensive guide on dogs brushing, including the best techniques, tools, and tips to make the process easier for you and your furry friend.
Understanding the Basics of Dog Dental Health
Just like us, dogs are prone to plaque and tartar buildup, which can lead to some pretty serious health problems.
Plaque and Tartar Formation
Plaque can form on your dog’s teeth in a matter of hours. If plaque isn’t removed quickly, it mixes with minerals in your dog’s saliva and hardens into tartar, sometimes in as little as a day.
The trouble with tartar is that it can lead to periodontal disease and gingivitis.
Periodontal Disease and its Effects
Periodontal disease is an infection of the tissues that hold your dog’s teeth in place. Gingivitis is inflammation of the gums.
Untreated periodontal disease can affect your dog’s heart, liver, and kidneys. The bacteria from the mouth can enter the bloodstream and wreak havoc on other organs and systems.
Getting Started: When and How to Introduce Brushing
If you’re not already brushing your dog’s teeth, you may be wondering when and how to begin this new routine. Here’s what to keep in mind:
The Ideal Age to Start
The sooner, the better! It’s easiest to teach your dog to accept tooth brushing when they’re still a puppy, but don’t despair if your dog is fully grown. You can still start brushing their teeth now.
Creating a Positive Experience
The key to successful tooth brushing is to make it a positive experience for both of you. Choose a quiet time and a quiet place where you can both relax. Hold your dog comfortably or have them sit in a way that’s easy for you to reach their mouth.
From there, patience and positive reinforcement are key. Talk to your dog in a soothing voice, and reward them with praise and treats.
Choosing the Right Tools: Toothbrushes and Toothpaste
You wouldn’t use just any old scrub brush on your own pearly whites, would you? Same goes for your dog! Getting the right tools makes the job easier and more pleasant for everyone involved.
Selecting a Dog-Specific Toothbrush
Veterinarians typically recommend using a soft-bristled toothbrush designed specifically for dogs. They’re shaped to better fit a dog’s mouth. Some people find that a finger brush works best. You can even use a child’s toothbrush in a pinch.
No matter what kind of brush you choose, replace it every three months, just like you would your own.
Why Pet Toothpaste is Essential
Never, ever use human toothpaste on your dog. Ingredients like fluoride and xylitol, which are perfectly safe for humans, are toxic to dogs. Always buy toothpaste made specifically for pets.
To get your dog used to the process, let them have a little taste of the toothpaste before you even bring out the brush. That way, they’ll associate tooth brushing with something yummy!
How to brush your dog’s teeth
It might take time for your dog to get used to having its teeth brushed. Here’s how to make the process easier:
- Start with your finger. Get your dog used to the idea of having its teeth touched. Try rubbing its teeth with your finger or a soft cloth.
- Introduce the toothbrush. Once your dog is comfortable with you touching its teeth, let it sniff and lick the toothbrush. You can put a little bit of dog-safe toothpaste on it to make it more appealing.
- Focus on the outside. At first, just focus on cleaning the outer surfaces of the teeth, as these are usually the easiest to reach and where plaque tends to build up the most.
- Go slow. Use slow, gentle strokes. Don’t rush the process, and pay attention to your dog’s body language. If it seems stressed, stop and try again later.
- Focus on the big teeth first. Concentrate on the large teeth in the back and the canine teeth in the front. These are the most important to keep clean.
- Be gentle. Avoid poking your dog’s gums, as this can be painful and make it resistant to future brushing.
- Don’t force it. If your dog is really fighting you, don’t force its mouth open. You can try again later when it’s more relaxed.
- Take breaks. Clean your dog’s teeth in short bursts, offering praise and treats in between to make it a positive experience.
- Time it. Aim for about 30 seconds per side of your dog’s mouth. You don’t have to get every single tooth perfectly clean, but try to cover as much surface area as possible.
Addressing Common Challenges and Alternatives
Let’s face it: Some dogs are just not going to love having their teeth brushed. If your dog is one of them, here’s how to make the process easier and what you can do instead.
Handling Resistance and Anxiety
If your dog hates the toothbrush, go slowly. Some dogs need a long time to get used to toothbrushing, so be patient and reward successes.
You might also try different methods. A finger brush or a piece of gauze wrapped around your finger may be more tolerable than a full-sized toothbrush.
Alternative Cleaning Methods
If your dog simply won’t tolerate brushing, you can try wiping their teeth with dental wipes or gauze.
You can also give your dog dental chews as a supplement to tooth brushing, but don’t rely on them as a total replacement. They’re more like a treat than a thorough cleaning.
Maintaining a Comprehensive Dental Care Routine
Even if you brush your dog’s teeth regularly, you should still make sure they get professional veterinary dental cleanings. While daily brushing is ideal, even brushing a few times a week is better than nothing at all. Remember, brushing your dog’s teeth is a great way to be proactive about their health. It can also save you money in the long run by preventing painful, costly dental problems.
In Summary
Just like us, dogs need regular dental care to stay healthy. Ideally, you should brush your dog’s teeth every day, using a dog-friendly toothbrush and toothpaste. Gently lift your dog’s lips and brush all the surfaces of the teeth, paying extra attention to the gumline.
Even if your dog resists at first, keep practicing, and reward them for their cooperation. Prioritizing your dog’s oral health can prevent dental disease, pain, and expensive vet bills.
A healthy smile means a happier, healthier dog!