Many people go years and years without paying any attention to their dog’s teeth. Then, suddenly, a dog stops eating or gets sick and it turns out the dog has a rotten tooth or tooth infection.
If this has happened to your dog, you’re not alone. In fact, most people have no idea that their pup’s teeth have to be cleaned just like human teeth do!
The bad news…improper dog dental hygiene care can lead to illness, loss of teeth, and infection in dogs.
The good news…There are many simple things you can do at home to keep your dogs mouth healthy and prevent the things I just listed above from happening.
Here’s what I recommend…
#1 – Brush Your Dog's Teeth
Yes, you heard me right…
Brush your dog's teeth!
There are many dog toothbrushes and kinds of toothpaste on the market. And, while most dogs don’t necessarily enjoy having their teeth brushed, sometimes all it takes is a little chicken or beef flavored toothpaste to convince your pup to sit still for a few minutes to get his/her teeth scrubbed.
You can use any toothbrush that you may find at your local grocery store.
As for the toothpaste, here’s what we recommend…
Sentry Petrodex Poultry Flavored Toothpaste
#2 – Use a Tarter Reduction Water Additive
It’s unlikely that you're going to be able to brush your dog’s teeth every day. So, if your dog is really struggling with tartar build-up, then in between brushing, you may want to consider using a tartar reducing water additive in your pup’s water.
The odorless, tasteless, and colorless liquid contains Biotrate– a property that breaks down biofilm in the mouth and reduces the bacteria responsible for plaque and tartar,
All you have to do is add the recommended dosage into your dog’s water bowl and as your dog drinks, he/she will reap the benefits of the solution!
Of course, before you add any additives to your pets food/water ALWAYS check with your vet first!
Here’s the solution we recommend…
Vetradent Water Additive for Dogs
#3 – Give Your Dog DentaStix
DentaStix are essentially dog treats that are designed to help remove plaque and tartar off your dog’s teeth.
The first reason they help is due to their shape. They are crafted so that when your dog chews on them it rubs the surface area of your pup’s teeth removing plaque build-up.
They also contain ingredients that help freshen your dog's breath which is a great added benefit for those with dogs who like to find stinky things to eat/chew on.
DentaStix come in a variety of flavors and sizes so you can easily find what‘s most appropriate for your dog.
If you are not sure which product to try, check out DentaStix here.
#4 – Use Dental Chew Toys
There are so many dental chew toys on the market that are specifically designed to help clean your dog’s teeth while he/she plays.
What makes a chew toy a dental chew toy?
Primarily dental chew toys are designed with little bumps, ribs, and bristles, that rub against your pup’s teeth and gums to help remove tartar build-up.
Here are a few of the most popular dental toys…
Of course, with every product, you need to be aware that if pieces break off they can be potentially life-threatening to your dog.
Take special care when you give your dog anything new for the first time, keep an eye on them. And if it looks like they are breaking off any sharp pieces swap it out for something else!
#5 – Get Your Dog’s Teeth Professionally Cleaned
Most veterinary offices offer teeth cleaning services for dogs.
Of course, it’s not recommended that you get your dog’s teeth cleaned professionally very often as most dogs are put under for their teeth to be properly cleaned.
However, you should be taking your dog to the vet at least once a year for a routine checkup. While you’re at the vet, have him/her look at your dog’s teeth to determine if it’s time to have them cleaned or not.
This is by far the best way to help prevent disease, infection, or tooth loss from occurring in your dog's mouth.
STRUGGLING TO GET NEAR YOUR DOG’S MOUTH?
If you are battling to get your dog to let you go inside their mouth then the Dog Calming Code can help with that.
It develops calmness, tolerance and a healthy relationship where your dog trusts your decisions…
To understand more about how the Dog Calming Code will assist you with being able to handle your dog check out this blog post HERE.
Or, if you have a puppy my Puppy Coach training program might be a better starting place for you!
Here’s to many years with your happy, healthy pup!
Best of luck!,
~Doggy Dan 🙂
