Brushing Your Dog's Teeth
Dog Breeds
With the right tools and a bit of practice, you’ll be brushing your dog’s teeth in no time. Healthy clean teeth will prevent tooth and blood infections and help your dog live a longer life.
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Introduction
With the right tools and a bit of practice, you’ll be brushing your dog’s teeth in no time. Healthy clean teeth will prevent tooth and blood infections and help your dog live a longer life.
Brushing Your Dog's Teeth
What You'll Need
To begin brushing your dog’s teeth, purchase a canine tooth brushing kit. It should include toothpaste and a toothbrush especially designed for a dog’s teeth and mouth. Never, ever, use human toothpaste on dogs. While we know to spit our toothpaste out, dogs often swallow most of their toothpaste. Doggy toothpaste is designed to be safe even if your dog swallows a lot of it.
How to Brush Your Dog's Teeth
Begin brushing your dog’s teeth by finding a comfortable position for you and your dog. Many pet owners either have the dog sit, or lay down, when they brush their dog’s teeth. The pet owner can then kneel on the floor, or sit on the floor, within easy reach of the dog. Place a towel under your dog’s head, then gently lift your dog’s lips and begin brushing the teeth. Use up and down side to side motions, and try to brush over all of the teeth surfaces. Be extra careful when you are brushing your dog’s back teeth to keep your dog from gagging on the brush. Gently massage the dog’s gums with the toothbrush too. Talk to your dog throughout the process, and continually encourage your dog. A good belly rub and a treat after each brushing will help your dog get used to the process.
Benefits of Brushing Your Dog's Teeth
Regularly brushing your dog’s teeth will help to prevent plaque and maintain the health of the teeth. Plaque buildup can lead to tooth decay and serious tooth infections are known to cause systematic illnesses. Brush your dog’s teeth at least three times a week.
Video: How To Clean Your Dog's Teeth
Overview and Facts