Dental care in dogs
As a loving dog owner, you do everything you can to keep your dog in top shape, from feeding them nutritious food and treats to daily exercise and visiting the vet for preventative care. But are you paying enough attention to your dog's dental care? If not, it's time to change your habits. Because proper care can mean the difference between healthy canine teeth and an oral condition that could cause your puppy or dog discomfort (or even pain).
What does a healthy mouth look like in a dog?
Before you learn how to maintain healthy dog teeth (and what can happen if you don't), as a caring dog owner, you first need to understand what healthy dog teeth look like. Healthy canine teeth should be clean and free of plaque and tartar (hard, flaky, or sticky stains). Dogs have 42 teeth (a third more than you have) that are intact and not jagged or broken.
Dogs' tongues should be wet - with no evidence of lumps or cuts. And, in most cases, the gums should be salmon-colored. Some dog breeds have naturally black or black-pink gums, which can make looking for the usual signs of discoloration or gingivitis difficult. Make sure you know what your pet's mouth, teeth, and gums typically look like, and talk to your vet if you spot lumps, raised areas, pale gums, or bright red tissue.
Dental care in dogs
If you're new to brushing your dog's teeth, take small steps. Note, however, that you should get your dog used to touching his mouth and teeth before you come over with toothbrushes and toothpaste to brush his teeth. Touch his snout first and practice running your finger over his teeth and gums. Once he can handle it - while remaining calm and relaxed - introduce the toothbrush. Let him smell her and gently rub her over his teeth. This process can take a few days for each step. Go slowly and don't push your dog. After all, you don't want him to develop anxious or negative feelings about dental care.
Proper cleaning of dogs teeth - technique
Once you've developed the confidence to brush your teeth, it's time to work on the technique. First lift your dog's lips and brush his front teeth. Slowly work your way towards the back of its mouth, paying attention to the outside of its teeth. You may have to withdraw at first and only brush a few teeth at a time. Once dogs get used to grooming and cleaning their teeth, it will be quick and easy. Dog toothpaste is also specially formulated to be as tasty as possible, as long as you prefer turkey and chicken to minty freshness. Look out for dog toothpaste or dog food supplements that support your four-legged friend's dental hygiene. Remember: you should never use human toothpaste on your dog as the ingredients can upset his stomach and make him extremely ill. Regular dental care for dogs is the key to success.
Another important part of dental care and dental hygiene for dogs is an annual professional cleaning at the veterinarian's office. This teeth cleaning should be done under anesthesia every one to three years. Vets can clean under dogs' gums and other hard-to-reach places and prevent oral and systemic dental diseases such as tartar, gingivitis, plaque and other dental problems. X-rays of your puppy's teeth may also be taken during this process to ensure there are no other dental problems, similar to what you would do at your dentist's.
If you take care of your dog's dental care, you can make a difference with the right diet. Dog food specially formulated for your four-legged friend's dental care can help reduce dental problems such as plaque, tartar, plaque and tartar and freshen their breath. For all dog parents who get dog kisses, fresh breath is a must!