If you want to keep your four-legged friend happy and healthy, you cannot neglect the cleaning of their teeth.
Dogs can suffer from dental problems like tartar, which can cause pain, inflammation, and even more serious illnesses.
In this guide, you'll learn everything there is to know about cleaning a dog's teeth, from detailed steps to do it at home, to the reasons why it's so important, and even some natural remedies to keep their smile shining.
What products can I use to brush my dog's teeth?
There are several effective products for cleaning a dog's teeth. Here are some of the best:
Dog Toothbrushes: These are specially designed for dogs' mouths, with soft bristles to remove plaque and tartar. Make sure to choose one of the right size for your dog.
Dog Toothpaste: Enzymatic toothpaste for dogs is formulated to be safe to swallow and often has a flavor appealing to dogs. Avoid using human toothpaste, which can contain harmful ingredients.
Dental Chews: These are designed to help remove plaque and tartar while the dog chews them. They also provide a form of entertainment for the dog.
Dental Additives and Sprays: These can be added to your dog's drinking water or food. These products can help prevent the formation of plaque and tartar.
Gauze or Cloth: You can wrap a piece of gauze or cloth around your finger and gently rub your dog's teeth. This method can be especially used in dogs that do not easily allow brushing.
Chew Toys: Some toys are designed for dental cleaning. They can help rub your dog's teeth as they play.
How to Brush a Dog's Teeth?
Keeping your dog's teeth clean is crucial for their overall health. Make sure to do it at a time when the dog is calm, in a place without too many distractions, and with the necessary dental cleaning tools at hand.
Here's how to do it using different methods:
Toothbrush:
Help your dog get used to the taste of the toothpaste: put a little on your finger and start rubbing it on their teeth, making it seem like a game. Besides the classic mint flavor, there are also meat-flavored ones, which might be more suitable during the learning phase.
Introduce them to the toothbrush: first, put some toothpaste on it so the dog can lick it off, then put it in their mouth and let them play with it a bit, but without breaking it.
Once the dog seems relaxed, put toothpaste on your finger and spread it well on their teeth. Start with the back teeth and move towards the canines and then the incisors. Put another small amount of toothpaste on the bristles,
begin brushing very gently on the outer arches, with light pressure and a rotating movement, then brush from top to bottom. The outer arches are the dirtiest, so brushing the outer teeth well is very important.
Now comes the more difficult part, the inner arches: at this point, you'll need to try to open the dog's mouth with your hand and brush the inside of the teeth, always very gently.
Give them time between each step, be patient, and don't get irritated if the first experience isn't the best. Be careful not to scare them because if they get traumatized, it will then be impossible to even get the toothbrush close to their mouth.
Gauze or Cloth
Wrap a piece of gauze or cloth around your finger.
Position the dog as before, in a relaxed stance.
Use the gauze-wrapped finger to gently rub the teeth, following the previously mentioned instructions in points 4, 5, and 6.
This method is particularly useful for dogs that do not accept a toothbrush.
Dental Cleaning Sprays
Dental cleaning sprays can help prevent plaque formation.
Usually, it's enough to spray the additive onto the dog's teeth, following the instructions on the package for quantity and frequency.
It's a simpler option for dogs that do not tolerate direct contact.
Chew Sticks for Teeth Cleaning
Make sure to choose chew sticks that are approved and safe for dogs.
Position the dog comfortably and offer them the chew stick.
The dog will bite and chew the stick, helping to remove tartar.
This method can be a fun solution for the dog.
How to Naturally Clean a Dog's Teeth
Cleaning a dog's teeth naturally is possible using safe ingredients and home remedies. Here's a natural method and some products you can use:
Baking Soda: It's a mild abrasive that can help remove plaque. Mix it with water to create a paste and apply it to the dog's teeth.
Apple Cider Vinegar: It's slightly acidic and can help break down plaque. Mixed with water, it can be used as a dental cleaning spray.
Coconut Oil: Has antibacterial properties and can help reduce bacterial growth in the dog's mouth. Apply a small amount to a cloth and rub the teeth.
Herbs: Some herbs like sage and parsley have antibacterial properties and can contribute to teeth cleaning. You can rub fresh leaves on the dog's teeth.
Once you've chosen your preferred product, wrap a piece of gauze or soft cloth around your finger.
Gently rub the dog's teeth with the cloth or gauze, focusing on the outer surface of the teeth.
Why Should You Brush a Dog's Teeth?
Regular teeth cleaning is essential for your dog's well-being. Tartar and plaque can cause painful gum problems and infections.
Keeping the teeth clean can prevent more serious diseases and ensure a good overall health balance for the dog.
Failing to clean the teeth can lead to disorders like gingivitis, periodontitis, and even tooth loss.
These issues not only cause discomfort to your dog but can also affect their feeding and overall well-being.
How Often Should You Brush a Dog's Teeth?
Clean your dog's teeth every other day, or at least three times a week.
For dogs at risk, such as those predisposed to dental problems, daily cleaning is ideal.
How Long Should You Brush a Dog's Teeth?
Dedicate at least 2-3 minutes to each cleaning session, trying to brush or clean all the teeth thoroughly.
When to Start Cleaning a Dog's Teeth?
Start from a young age. Getting the dog used to it as a puppy will make them associate teeth cleaning with a normal routine.
What to Do if the Dog Won't Let You Brush Its Teeth?
The simplest method is using gauze, but if the dog really won't let you touch its mouth, the only alternative is professional cleaning by a veterinarian, known as scaling.
The dog is sedated, and the teeth are cleaned with an ultrasonic scaler, cleaning both the surfaces of the teeth and under the gums.
Unfortunately, as this procedure requires full anesthesia, it often cannot be performed on elderly or sick dogs. This is why teeth cleaning is your best ally for ensuring Fido has a long, happy life with healthy and shiny teeth.
How Can I Prevent Plaque and Tartar Formation?
In addition to cleaning, consider using specific dental chew sticks.
And offer your dog specific toys for chewing and dental cleaning.
In Conclusion…
Cleaning your dog's teeth should be a habit that's part of your furry friend's care routine.
With patience and consistency, you can prevent painful dental problems and ensure that your dog has a healthy and happy smile for life.
Not only will you make your dog happier, but you will also improve their overall health.
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Author's Note
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Disclaimer
The information provided on our site is of a general nature and does not in any way replace the advice of a veterinarian or industry experts. Always consult your veterinarian if you have any doubts.
