10/06/2023
How to brush your dogs teeth.
Choose a time when your dog is the calmest and most relaxed. Most dogs will learn to tolerate and appreciate teeth cleanings, even if they don’t like it at first. Dog toothbrushes are available which are specifically designed to make brushing your dog’s teeth easier. They come with angled handles, soft bristles and some even have multiple heads. This reduces the time it takes to reach all the tiny nooks and crevices inside your dog’s mouth. Dog toothpaste comes in many flavors like chicken and beef and tackles different problems such as tartar build-up and gum health. Make sure you’re in a spot where your dog is comfortable and relaxed. Don’t stand above your dog, hold them down, or take a threatening stance. They should remain calm and relaxed throughout so your body language should reflect this. Try kneeling or sitting in front of or to the side of them. Read your dog’s communication cues. If they seem upset or are beginning to show signs of frustration, stop, and try again later. This process may take a while to conquer but the most important thing is that your dog doesn’t begin to associate their teeth cleaning with negative experiences. To begin with, test your dog’s willingness to have you touch their mouth by gently rubbing your finger along their upper gums and teeth. This will help them get used to the feel of something against their teeth. Use light pressure and take your time. You may need to get them comfortable with this over a few sessions before moving on to the next step. Put some dog toothpaste on your fingertip. Let your dog lick the toothpaste from your fingertip so that they can get used to the texture and taste. If after a few days they refuse to lick more toothpaste after their initial taste, try a different flavor. Hopefully, you’ll find one they see as a treat and look forward to having. When your pup is used to you opening and touching their mouth, you can start using the toothpaste and toothbrush together. Lift their upper lip. As you approach their teeth with the brush, angle the bristles so they reach the gum line. Placing them at a 45-degree angle against their teeth will help the bristles massage the gum line and clear away plaque. Brush in small circles, reaching top and bottom on each side. As you move the bristles along the gum line, some light bleeding may occur. Slight bleeding afterwards is not a concern. But ongoing or heavy bleeding may mean you’re brushing too harshly or it may be a sign of gum disease. Speak with your vet for advice. Brush a few teeth at a time, working up to more each day. If your dog resists at first, try starting on the outsides of the canine and back teeth, where plaque tends to collect the most. If you can get the insides, great but if you can’t don’t worry. Dog tongues do a really good job of keeping the inside of their teeth clean. Keep the mood light while you’re brushing your dog’s teeth and talk to them throughout. Gentle pats on the head will keep the experience calm and positive. When you’re finished brushing your dog’s teeth, reward them with their favorite treat or extra attention. Ending on a positive note is key so that they associate having their teeth cleaned with positivity.
P.S.
Not all dogs can tolerate getting their teeth brushed every day.
If that's the case for you, you can try giving your dog a big carrot or apple to chew as a natural and healthy alternative to brushing.
Carrots help to remove plaque that is home to millions of bad-smelling bacteria. Not to mention your dog will enjoy this tasty snack
Just don’t give up on Brushing.