Keeping your dog's teeth clean is important, as ignoring this can lead to plaque build-up and dental disease. Dental disease is very common in dogs, second only to ear infections, and can be extremely uncomfortable - much like we would experience. To avoid expensive treatment costs check and clean your dog's teeth regularly as part of their grooming treatment
. Before you begin brushing your dog's teeth, it's always a good idea to have your veterinarian demonstrate the proper technique. The positioning of the jaws and how the teeth meet differs between breeds. Brachycephalic breeds, such as Pugs and Chihuahuas, have misaligned jaws with crowded or missing teeth, making them more susceptible to dental disease.
Start brushing their teeth when they're a puppy and do so every day to get them used to it. If you haven't already done so, begin by placing your finger near their mouth and gradually introduce the action. Maintain the routine and gradually add brushing until it becomes second nature.
Since human toothpaste isn't appropriate for dogs as it is toxic to dogs, you'll need to purchase a dog toothpaste. Brushing their teeth requires a special dog toothbrush that fits over your finger, but if you don't have one, a child-sized toothbrush will suffice.
Dental disease may occur unexpectedly or develop gradually over months. Keep an eye out for the following signs:
On the teeth, deposits can form.
Gums can bleed and be affected.
The mouth is polluted, resulting in a foul odor.
The tooth's sensitive root can be exposed, causing pain.
Teeth that are discoloured and fall out
If you find any of these signs PLEASE CONTACT YOUR VET.
Since every dog is different, there is no such thing as a universal diet for all dogs. If you're not sure what diet is best for your dog, consult a veterinarian or a reliable pet store for more details.
Some dog owners prefer wet foods over dry foods for their pets. Dry dog food, on the other hand, can have the added advantage of exercising their chewing muscles and mildly brushing their teeth.
Dental chews and treats are another effective way to keep your dog's teeth clean.
Is it good to give your dog bones?
Bone feeding is a contentious subject. Raw, meaty bones are a tasty treat for your dog, and they do help clean teeth, but they can be dangerous. Bones can cause dental fractures in some dogs that eat 'energetically,' and constipation in others.
Cooked bones are more likely to break up, causing internal injury. Before feeding your dog bones, seek advice from your veterinarian, and keep an eye on them if and when they do consume them.
Are there any foods that can help clean a dog's teeth?
Brushing our dog's teeth is a bothersome chore that we all know we should be doing, but let's face it––it's a major pain. While cleaning your dog's teeth a few times a month is the greatest way to prevent gum disease (particularly in breeds that are more susceptible), any attention to dental care is preferable to none.
We're trying to think about how to brush your dog's teeth without using a brush and paste.
Healthy snacks for your canine buddy include a variety of fruits and vegetables. They're fantastic since they're low in calories and fat, popular with most dogs, and can help keep your dog's teeth clean! Apple slices, carrot sticks, sweet potato, and squash are all delectable human meals that help scrape plaque and buildup off your dog's teeth.
Dogs, as you undoubtedly know, have an innate need to chew. And what's one of the reasons behind that? Chewing is a great way to keep their teeth clean! By giving chew toys that aid in the process, you may help your dog's natural approach to dental care be more successful. Rubber toys are particularly efficient in scraping plaque from the rear molars, which are difficult to reach. Meaty bones and antlers can also help keep your teeth clean.
Dental treats, such as the ever-popular Greenies, are a product that many dog owners swear by when it comes to combating bad breath and canine dental hygiene. These snacks are often created with a combination of chlorophyll-rich greens and herbal mixes that help to combat plaque-causing bacteria. Although Dental Chews are low in calories, they can contribute to weight gain in dogs over time.
Is there anything that coconut oil can't help you with? To the list of coconut oil marvels, add cleaning your dog's teeth without brushing them. Coconut oil is well renowned for its antibacterial qualities if you didn't already know. When placed in your dog's mouth, it can aid in the killing of germs that cause plaque and gum disease. For optimum impact, mix it into your dog's food or rub it into their gums with your finger once a week.