Dog teeth cleaning should be something which is done regularly as a part of your pet care routine. If possible, your dog’s teeth should be brushed daily, or least every other day. Dogs are just as susceptible as we are to tooth disease, so it is important to make sure that our dog’s teeth are kept clean and free of tartar.

Dental Disease and Your Dog’s Health

Dogs can get many of the same tooth, gum and mouth diseases as we can – and since your dog can’t tell you if they have a toothache, pet owners have to make sure to take care of their dog’s teeth. Left alone, a tooth infection can lead to more serious problems with their vital organs.

Your dog’s diet definitely has a direct effect on their dental health. Choosing foods and treats that are fortified and designed to keep their teeth and gums healthy are an easy way to implement dental hygiene into your dog’s life. Although professional cleaning by a veterinarian is an option, this should only be considered in extreme cases as unnecessarily having your dog anesthetized is not only expensive, but it also puts undue stress on your pet.

Cleaning Your Dog’s Teeth

With some patience, you can train your dog to accept tooth brushing. Adult dogs and puppies can both be trained by starting with your finger and some peanut butter.

Your dog will lick your finger – this will let you start rubbing their teeth and gums. Be sure to offer plenty of praise while you do this. Soon, your dog will be used to this and you can move on to a finger wrapped in gauze. Rub the teeth and gums in a circular motion, just as you would with a toothbrush. When your pet becomes accustomed to this, you’re ready to move in to the real thing.

Never use toothpaste intended for humans on your dog as ingredients such as baking soda will upset their stomach. Also, dog toothpaste is specially formulated for their teeth and will have an appealing smell and taste to help make the process a bit easier. Start out by letting your dog lick a dollop of toothpaste off of the brush first, then use more to finally start brushing.

Lift your dogs’ gums so that you can reach their teeth, especially the canines. Hold the brush at a 45 degree angle for the best result. This lets you clean the gums and teeth at the same time. Brush using a circular motion and don’t forget your dogs’ back teeth, which are more susceptible to disease and decay.

Make dog tooth cleaning time a happy time for your dog. Stay calm so your dog won’t get too excited. It should only take about a minute a day for effective dog teeth cleaning and maintain their good health.

Canine teeth cleaning is important to your dog’s health, and dog teeth cleaning can be effected in a number of ways. Keep your dog’s teeth clean by brushing your dog’s teeth, by a healthy diet, and by adding a dog teeth cleaning agent to your dog’s drinking water. All can play a part in keeping your dog’s teeth healthy.