Brushing Your Dog’s Teeth

by Ronel Forbes

November 3, 2022

It’s difficult to miss the attention being paid to those chompers as you watch the veterinarian examine your pooch at their annual checkup. The inspection then reveals that a costly cleaning is required and that some teeth could need to be pulled.

It turns out that dogs are susceptible to the same dental problems as people, including plaque, gum disease, and decay. Everything can be avoided, including severe infections and tooth loss.

Periodontal disease, an inflammation or infection of the tissues surrounding the teeth, affects more than two thirds of dogs older than three. Plaque-induced gingivitis, which is the first stage of periodontal disease, frequently advances to affect the bony tooth sockets. Periodontal disease, if left untreated, can result in painful tooth loss.

We are aware of your thoughts. How on earth do you get rambunctious dogs to stay still for a cleaning session?

Trying to improve the dental health of your dog? Other experts clearly outline the procedure for cleaning canine teeth, but we’ve added a few extra tips and protecting tactics.

Step 1: Pets Used to Having Their Mouth Touched

The results of sticking a toothbrush in immediately away will not be good. When you’re relaxed, perhaps while watching TV or whatever, reach out and pet that hairy face. Work your way up to possibly using a finger toothbrush and lifting your lips to gently brush your front teeth.

Step 2: Select Dog’s favorite Toothpaste

Never use human toothpaste since it contains chemicals like xylitol that dogs should never consume. Decide whether Fido would like a flavor like peanut butter or chicken by looking through the options on some websites. Introducing something delicious to your dog’s lips is a fantastic idea.

Step 3: Upgrade to a Long Handle Brush

Now, if your four-legged child weighs less than 30 pounds, sticking with a finger brush will probably be enough. Larger dogs might require a greater reach that can only be provided by a specially made, extended dog toothbrush.

Step 4: Assess Their Mood

Is your infant quiet? They may also be fearful or in “play mode.” It’s crucial to take the time to assess the atmosphere to determine whether this will be a positive or negative experience. If everyone is calm, move forward. Perhaps a quick “sesh” will help them reach where they need to go.

Step 6: Treats

How did your dog pick any other commands or tricks? That a prize is on the horizon! No matter how little or how much was completed, lavish them with praise and give them a treat.

Step 7: Repeat

To fully get into the groove of things, it will definitely need some significant repeating of stages one through six. However, just like potty training, it is possible.

When should I brush the teeth of my dog?

It is preferable to clean your dog’s teeth at least twice a day, just like you do. Many dogs will start to anticipate and enjoy brushing once it becomes a part of their regular routine. The minimum recommended amount of brushing to help prevent tartar buildup and eliminate plaque is three times per week.

What actions must I do to train my dog to tolerate brushing his teeth?

Making tooth brushing enjoyable for both of you is essential if you want to be successful. Praise your dog during the entire process and offer assurance at each stage to make it a happy experience. Follow these instructions for the best outcomes:

Pick a peaceful time and location to start.
Hold your dog firmly in your lap with his head turned away from you if he is tiny enough. In order to comfortably handle your dog’s jaws and teeth, you should sit on a chair and have your dog sit next to you.
Allow your dog to taste some pet toothpaste off your finger once he is comfortable with you brushing his teeth. Human toothpaste should not be used because it was not designed to be ingested.
Apply a small bit of pet toothpaste to the towel and wipe it over the teeth once your dog has grown accustomed to the flavor.
Focus on the region where the gum meets the tooth surface as you wipe your finger or a soft towel over your dog’s teeth in a back-and-forth motion to remove tartar. To prevent unintentionally biting yourself, take care to only touch the exterior surfaces of the teeth. If your pet is hesitant or anxious about the procedure, it is best to only massage the cloth along a few teeth during the first few lessons rather than the entire mouth.

What type of toothbrush should you use?

There are commercial toothbrushes on the market made expressly for use on dogs. These consist of:

Angled-handled brushes,
Brushes with a variety of heads (so that you can simultaneously brush the inside, outside, and top surfaces of the tooth),
Little brushes that are relaxed to hold, and
Brushes for the fingers (designed to fit over the tip of your finger).

It is acceptable to use an extremely soft toothbrush made for use on human newborns on some canines.

Your dog’s size and your personal dexterity both have an impact on the toothbrush you choose. When first starting to brush their dog’s teeth, many pet owners find it easier to use a finger brush. If you are unsure which brush to use, see your veterinarian.

No matter what kind of toothbrush you use, it’s crucial to be careful and move slowly because it’s simple to unintentionally touch your gums with the toothbrush’s tip, which might irritate them.

Conclusion

Throughout, bear in mind the advantages of having healthy teeth. Puppies will enjoy happier, healthier, and possibly longer lives. Consider how uncomfortable it is to go even a few hours without brushing your teeth.

Encourage chewing on natural, risk-free products that have been recommended by your veterinarian instead of just brushing your dog on a regular basis. Antlers, horns, and Greenies are all potential candidates.

Overall, it’s fantastic if you can wash your dog’s teeth every day, but experts say doing so three times each week is plenty. And also, avail Pet Insurance for your pets safeguard in any predicament situations.