Reasons & Proper Way to Brush Your Dog's Teeth

One: Why Do Dogs Need to Brush Their Teeth?

Dogs have oral structures that are surprisingly similar to ours, with teeth that fit closely together, leaving small gaps. So, why do some pet owners find the idea of brushing their dog's teeth to be a bit excessive, or even a sign of lack of love? Perhaps it's due to laziness? Every time a dog eats, bits of food can get stuck in these tiny gaps. If left unchecked, these food particles can rot and ferment, leading to a proliferation of bacteria that can cause severe dental problems. This could eventually lead to expensive dental cleaning or even tooth extraction procedures for the owner. Moreover, if these bacteria and harmful substances enter the bloodstream, they could pose a greater threat to the dog's overall health.

Two: How to Help Your Dog Brush Their Teeth?

The best approach is to start early. When your dog is a puppy, begin introducing the concept of teeth brushing as a regular part of its routine. First, purchase petspecific toothpaste and a toothbrush from your veterinarian. Begin by putting a small amount of toothpaste on your dog's lips and letting them lick it, associating the taste with something enjoyable. Then, gently introduce the toothbrush into their mouth, allowing them to get used to the brush. Once your dog is comfortable with the toothpaste and brush, start brushing their teeth, and always follow up with a reward to reinforce the positive experience. This way, future brushing sessions will be more cooperative. However, if your dog strongly resists, don't force the issue. Take a break and try again later, gradually building their tolerance.

Three: What If Your Dog Absolutely Hates Brushing Their Teeth?

If your dog has never developed a habit of brushing and strongly dislikes it, you may need to resort to alternative training methods or use other tools to help clean their mouth. For instance, you can buy dental toys for your dog to chew on, which can help clean their teeth during play. Alternatively, you can offer dental chews, but make sure they are the right hardness and size for your dog.

Dr. Oxygen Pet Tips:

Dental issues in dogs are no trivial matter. Dogs can't brush their own teeth, so this responsibility falls to the pet owner. A responsible owner should be attentive to all aspects of their dog's health!