You want me to brush my DOG'S
teeth?
Caring for your dogs Teeth
Why should I brush my
DOG'S teeth?
Dogs, just like humans, can get cavities. Their teeth should be
cleaned at least twice a week. Feeding your dog dry dog food and giving him
plenty of hard bones to chew on, is one way to help keep his teeth
healthier.
Two common problems dogs with poor dental hygiene have, are loose and
abscess teeth. Does your dog have bad breath? Studies show that 98 % of dogs
with bad breath are suffering from periodontal disease, a result of plaque build
up. If left untreated, this can lead to a bacteria infection, which can enter
the bloodstream and spread to your dog's kidney, liver, heart and even their
brain. Chances are if your dog has very bad breath, there is a problem with his
teeth.
Why can't I use human toothpaste on my dog?
There are many wonderful brands and types of toothpaste for humans.
Why can't we use them on our dogs? Because dogs do not spit, and human tooth
paste is not edible. Your dog will most definitely swallow whatever you use to
clean his teeth. You can purchase an edible toothpaste, just for dogs, at the
pet store. There are many flavors available. Try to find one that your dog
likes; your dog will be more likely to let you brush his teeth. A nice beefy
brushing will be a tasty treat for your dog. If your dog squirms when you try to
brush his teeth you may need a helper to get the job done.
How should I brush my dogs teeth?
Cleaning your dogs teeth is not as hard as it sounds, if you have the
right supplies.
You will need doggie toothpaste, and either a toothbrush, a
nubby-surfaced
rubber cap, a wash cloth or a piece of gauze wrapped around your
finger.
Close-up of nubby-surfaced
rubber cap that fits over your finger.
Position yourself and your dog, so that you can access
the dogs teeth comfortably. Lift your dogs upper lips and begin to brush in a
circular motion, much like you would brush your own teeth. Be sure to brush
where the tooth meets the gum-line. Don't forget to get the very back teeth,
since this is where your dog is most likely to develop problems. When you are
finished the top, move on to the bottom.
Tips
Check your dogs teeth every time you groom him.
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Brush your dogs teeth at least two times a week
and have your dogs teeth checked once a year by your veterinarian. If your
dogs teeth have significant tarter build up, they need to be cleaned. This is
usually done with anesthesia. |
Feeding your dog dry dog food or hard dog biscuits
everyday and provide a hard toy or bone to chew on. This will help prevent
periodontal disease and other infections and gum diseases.
Caring for your dogs Teeth 1 -
2
Grooming Main
Showing, Genetics and Breeding
Getting down and dirty
Getting cleaned up and pretty
Grooming tips and general grooming care
Playing, cuddles + favorite spots
1 -
2
Social Life
Showing and Jr.
Handling
Breeding / Reproducing
