How And Why To Brush Dogs’ Teeth
Brushing dogs’ teeth is not something you do to give them good breath. Oral hygiene is essential for your pet’s health. Although most people are not aware of this, periodontal or gum disease is a common and very serious problem in dogs. However, brushing your puppy’s teeth can prevent them.
Veterinarians estimate that 85% of dogs over the age of five suffer from periodontal disease.
They develop when pieces of food and bacteria accumulate in the gum line and form soft deposits called plaque.
Over time, these plaques are turned into stone-hard tartars. If tartars are not removed from your dog’s teeth, they will eventually cause inflammation in the gums.
With inflamed gums, they begin to separate from the teeth. In this space, bacteria will grow making periodontal diseases worse.
Puppies feel a lot of pain when they have periodontal disease. Too many teeth can fall out, and even a bacterial infection that can spread through the bloodstream, kidneys, liver, heart, and brain can occur.
Periodontal disease is irreversible. So now is the time to start working on a regular oral care schedule for your dog. Prevention is the key to keeping your pet healthy and happy.
When to brush dogs’ teeth
Ideally, dogs’ teeth are brushed every day. However, if your schedule does not allow this to be done, at least complete the task a few times a week.
Smaller puppies and broad, flat-nosed, flat or short-nosed dog breeds such as Pugs or Bulldogs may need more frequent grooming.
Your teeth facilitate the accumulation of plaque and this increases the risk of developing periodontal disease.
What is necessary?
The brush you choose is critical. It must be as important to you as your dog is.
In pet stores you can find a wide variety of brushes for dogs. You can choose the one that best suits your puppy.
There you can also buy a toothpaste for him. If you don’t approve of this method, the other option is to use a small clean gauze, place it around your thumb, and improvise as a toothbrush.
How to brush dogs’ teeth?
Your dog will most likely feel weird when you want to put something in the back of his mouth. You might be nervous at first.
However, it is possible to make brushing teeth more pleasant. For example, take things slowly. Put the toothbrush in little by little so it doesn’t get confused or annoyed.
Teach your dog that good things always happen when he has his teeth brushed. That is, right after you finish brushing, go for a walk with the dog or start a series of games using your favorite toys.
Before using the brush or toothpaste, run your finger through something the dog likes, like chicken stock or peanut butter. Let the dog lick your finger. Meanwhile, lift your lips.
Repeat this exercise several times a day for the first few weeks. Occasionally you can use some dog toothpaste. That way, he gets used to the smell and taste.
When you notice that your dog is already feeling comfortable with your fingers in his mouth, place one hand gently under his chin, letting the other support his head.
Then place your hand over the top of your dog’s muzzle, as if to open its mouth. When you notice he’s relaxed, add some toothpaste and go brushing his teeth.
If the toothbrush makes your dog angry, it is best to use a small gauze or brushes or brushing with your fingers. The latter are very effective in those animals that tend to be more restless.
In case you are unable to brush your dog’s teeth, take him to the vet.
