Just like you and I, dogs are prone to cavities and although their mouths are said to be cleaner than humans they can still develop tartar, plaque buildup, gingivitis or other problems other than bad breath.
Start brushing your dog’s teeth at a young age so there is no discomfort and uneasy moments. Regular human toothpaste cannot be used for your dog because of fluoride which is toxic to them. Go to a pet store to find a brand suited for them, Arm & Hammer has many options. A 45-degree angle double-headed canine toothbrush is what you’ll need to be looking for. This makes it more approachable to clean the gum line. There are also smaller tooth brushes that you can put over your finger. Each products price ranges from $5.00 to $20.00, but can often be found in a set.
To make tooth cleaning easier for you, take some time to exercise with your dog so he’ll be less alarmed through the tooth cleaning process. You can brush half of his mouth to start if there are signs of annoyance. Start slowly because with time it’s something that will just be a routine. During the event, ease the dog by praising him and communicating, perhaps feed a treat afterwards.
If tooth brushing isn’t a success or something you don’t have time for there are other ways to help with your dog’s oral health. Crunchy Kibble is better to give because the food is less soft which is than less likely to stick around in the mouth and cause decay.
Don’t provide hard toys for your dog to play with because this can result in broken or damaged teeth. There are many artificial bones and chew toys that have been created to strength the teeth, gums and get rid of build-up for strength.
A dog should have a dental examination by a professional every 6 to 12 months. Any of these signs should result in a trip to the vet clinic, although you should look in your dog’s mouth yourself, a few times a week.
Be prepared, because dental concerns can lead to life-threatening infections to the heart, liver and kidney disease. Extend your dog’s life with good dental care. Keep your dog happy with proper care so you’ll both be smiling.