10/18/2021
Today’s Maintenance Monday is about brushing your dogs teeth!!
Plaque build up is common in dogs, especially those fed a low quality diet. This can lead to gum disease which can cause various health issues such as heart disease. Regular brushing can help control plaque build up, but it can be a struggle to get started and make it enjoyable for your dog. Here’s some tips:
1) Start slow. The first goal isn’t to brush their entire mouth in one sitting, it’s to get your dog used to it and see it as a positive experience.
2) Meet your dog where he’s at. If just sitting still is hard, start there. If it’s having something in his mouth, just let him get used to that. Go slow, don’t be afraid to go backwards, and be patient.
3) You don’t need fancy toothbrushes and toothpaste. You can start with a finger in a wash cloth. Eventually you may decide a paste or brush is easier but in the beginning any attempt to brush and massage the gums and teeth will be beneficial.
4) Important note! DO NOT use human toothpaste!! It can be very dangerous to your dog.
One of the best things for dogs is to chewing bones. We highly recommend RAW bones (NEVER COOKED!) that are large enough not to be swallowed, such as femurs.
Also Nylabones are a great alternative as well.
Go have fun teaching your dog this new skill!
