Tips For Brushing Dogs’ Teeth (Canine Dental Care 101)

More than 80 percent of dogs 3 years old and older suffer from periodontal disease. Dental problems can make eating painful and cause bleeding and infection. So, with these simple tips for brushing dogs teeth, take action today to properly manage your dog’s dental care.

Furthermore, regular brushing can prevent yucky dog breath, which can be caused by a build up of bacteria in the mouth. Brushing your dog’s teeth regularly is an important part of your dog’s dental care.

When should you start brushing your dog’s teeth

As with general dog grooming, you should start your dog’s dental routine as early as puppyhood—don’t wait until Fido is older and problems arise.

If your dog is very prone to tartar build up, then brush her teeth daily. Otherwise a weekly brush will keep her mouth healthy.

Choosing your dog’s toothbrush

Use a dog-specific toothbrush, which are smaller and have softer bristles than toothbrushes for people. Dog toothbrushes that fit over your finger are also an option, as are various sponges and pads that clean your dog’s teeth. Alternatively, you can wrap gauze around your finger and rub your dog’s teeth. The best way to brush your dog’s teeth is to use a canine dog toothbrush and canine dog toothpaste. You can buy these at most pet stores.

Is human toothpaste bad for dogs?

Never use human toothpaste on your dog, as it is too high in salt and fluoride. Human toothpaste also contains a chemical known as xylitol, which is poisonous to dogs [1]. Your dog will swallow the toothpaste (unless you have a clever dog that is trained to spit, rinse and gargle!), causing an upset stomach.

You need to use dog specific toothpaste, which comes in nice doggie flavors like liver, steak, seafood, and peanut butter. Apply a small amount of dog specific toothpaste to the toothbrush (or your finger), and gently brush the teeth and gums. Try to do this at least once a day, but preferably twice a day.

Tips for brushing dogs teeth

• As with any new experience, it may take a little while for you dog to get used to the sensation of having her teeth brushed.
• Start off by not even using a dog’s toothbrush, but just touching and stroking her cheeks.
• Progress to gently pulling her lips up and rubbing your finger on her teeth and gums. Remember to reward her with treats and praise for remaining calm while you do this.
• Introduce your dog to her toothbrush by letting her sniff and lick it. Gently rub it around her mouth, and work your way to putting it in her mouth.
• Also get her acquainted with her toothpaste. Dab a little on your finger and let her eat it.

Brushing dog’s teeth with baking soda

Tooth brushing with baking soda is a great way to keep your dog’s teeth clean. Not only is it affordable and easy to do, but it also helps to remove plaque and tartar buildup.

Mix together one teaspoon of baking soda with enough water to create a paste to get started. Scoop the paste-up with your toothbrush, and begin brushing your dog’s teeth.

To get the best results, you should brush their teeth twice a week for five minutes each time. The toothpaste will remove tartar buildup, freshen your dog’s breath, and leave them with clean teeth! Many dogs will grow to expect and enjoy brushing if it becomes a part of their daily routine.

Things to do before brushing

Before brushing, examine your dog’s teeth and gums first. Check for any plaque or tartar build up on the teeth, and red or inflamed gums. If this is the case, take your dog to your vet first to have her teeth professionally cleaned with specific dental tools. Otherwise your brushing efforts will be in vain, or in the case of inflamed gums, may cause pain. Many pet owners feel that using a finger brush is simpler, especially when they are just starting to brush their dog’s teeth.

Brushing technique: How to brush your dog’s teeth?

It’s really just like brushing your own teeth! Make sure you get to all sides and up the back of the mouth too. Try and make it a fun experience for your dog so she won’t resist your future attempts to brush her teeth.

The best way to brush your dog’s teeth is to use a canine toothbrush and canine toothpaste. You can buy these at most pet stores. If necessary, just start off with a few teeth at first, and build up to her whole mouth being cleaned. Wet the toothbrush, put some toothpaste on the bristles, and start brushing your dog’s teeth in a circular motion. Brush the front teeth and then the bottom teeth.

Make sure to get all of the teeth, including the back molars. It may take a little bit of time for your dog to get used to this, but soon it will come to enjoy the brushing session as much as you do. Praise her and reward her with a treat afterwards. Positive reinforcement is essential in dog training, especially if your dog despises having his teeth cleaned.

More information on your pooch’s teeth

The front teeth of your pooch are used to catch prey when it is hunting. Keeping the teeth clean helps the puppy teeth stay overall strong and healthy.

The lower teeth of your dog are also important to clean as they come into contact with the ground when your dog is running and playing. The build-up of plaque and tartar on these teeth can cause bad breath, gum disease, and even tooth loss.

Dog treats that are designed to improve oral health

Some dog treats, in addition to toothpaste and toothbrushes, are made to aid your dog’s health. If your dog despises brushing his teeth, there are certain solutions that might help you clean his teeth without brushing.

If you find that your dog’s teeth are really dirty, immediately follow our tips for brushing dogs teeth. You can also use a washcloth with some canine toothpaste to clean them. Just wet the cloth and use it in a circular motion on your pooch’s teeth until you have covered all of them.

To get rid of plaque build-up, you can brush your dog’s teeth frequently. Dogs don’t need to have their teeth brushed every day but try to do it at least once a week.

If you find that your dog is having trouble with plaque build-up, you may need to get him/her a dental cleaning from the vet. This is a procedure in which the vet will clean your dog’s teeth with a special tool. It is an expensive procedure but it is well worth it in keeping your dog healthy. In the long run, your dog will thank you. With these tips for brushing dogs teeth, you can make your pet teeth cleaning regimen quick, simple, and successful.