Dental Care For Your Dog...

Dental Care For Your Dog

Our furry little friends are likely to develop dental disease if their dental needs are ignored. Periodontal disease is not uncommon among dogs, particularly small dog breeds. And just like with humans, these problems can result in bad breath, yellowed teeth, and in the worst of cases, even progress to loss of teeth.

The development of such problems usually begins with such signs as swollen, red, and painful gums. Your pet may have less of an appetite as well. These signs indicate a need for immediate professional care.

Tooth decay and/or the loss of teeth usually indicate the presence of bacteria in the mouth. If left untreated the damage can progress from only involving the mouth to further damage that can include serious complications related to the kidneys, lungs, and heart, all of which can lead to a shortened lifespan. Periodontal problems usually start with the formation of plague.

Plaque builds on the teeth and in thirty-six hours or less, plaque can harden and tartar can form. This problem usually develops first and the worst in the upper back teeth. Unfortunately, once tartar has formed, it cannot be brushed away.

The good news is that these problems can be avoided. Although healthy routines can be started with any dog at any age, it is always best to start healthy routines with a young puppy. If the dog is older you should insure that he has a professional dental cleaning and then begin the healthy dental routine at home.

If you have a regular routine of brushing your dog’s teeth on a daily basis you can avoid most of these problems. The routine should be established while the dog is young if at all possible. He will then accept the brushing as part of his regular care.

At first the dog will wonder what you are doing so it is best to allow him to taste the doggie toothpaste. These special pastes are formulated to be appealing to dogs. You can use your finger or a special dog toothbrush. Don’t forget to clean both the teeth and the gums. Begin in the back and work in small circular motions. The entire brushing process will take less than a minute.

Providing such things as chew treats, hard dog biscuits and bones, and even soft toys for your pet can help to prevent dental problems. Besides keeping the teeth strong and healthy many of the items are specially formulated to freshen the breath. Feeding crunchy food items on a regular basis is another way to keep your pet’s teeth healthier. Another tip is that while warming your dog’s food will often make it more appealing it is important to insure that the food is only slightly warm and never hot. On the flip side, dogs should not be served cold food.
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Basic Considerations When Choosing A New Puppy ...

Before actually adding a new puppy to your home you should consider what your expectations of dog ownership are. All dogs require love, food and shelter, but puppies need more commitment from their owners than adult dogs do. Puppies are more time demanding because they are essentially
babies. They have to be taught how to behave appropriately and they go
through various stages as they grow. Most puppies go through a chewing
phase and at some points in growing up they are very energetic.

If there are children in the home even extra supervision will be required. This
is to protect both the child and the puppy. Puppies love to play and their little
teeth are very sharp. They can also easily scratch little ones with their claws
during play.

Similarly, children are drawn to small animals. They are very likely to hold
them and carry them around. Many puppies have been squeezed, dropped or
stepped on and injured inadvertently by well intentioned children. Obviously
you will have to be diligent in watching over the two when they’re together.
Most breeders of small or toy breeds do not sale their puppies to homes with
young children because of these risks. If you do have a child in your home
insure that the puppy you add is one with a gentle disposition and loving
personality.

Many people want a dog as a means of security or protection. They are
looking for a sort of living alarm system, a dog that will bark when someone
approaches the yard or the door. The good news is that almost any dog can fill
this need. The fact is that even the bark of a toy poodle is usually effective in
turning away an intruder.

Of course some people want to go a step farther with that concept and have a
dog that presents the physical appearance of a watch dog. In this case people
often choose larger breeds such as Doberman Pinchers or even Boxers. Most
dogs are protective of their owners and their territory without having any
specialized training. The sheer size and appearance of larger dogs is a
deterrent to most would be intruders.

Dogs are naturally pack animals which makes them a social animal. They love
their human family and want to be a part of it. Dogs make excellent
companions. Dogs should be included as a part of the family whenever
possible. They truly need the interaction and love of their family.
Dogs should not spend their time all alone, living in the back yard. This is
especially true of puppies. The younger the pup the more supervision and
regular training he needs. Socialization is important for all dogs. In fact, it is
the secret to a well behaved dog.

Before you add a new puppy to your home it is important to take the time to
consider what type of dog will best suit your lifestyle. If you are the type of
person that enjoys sports and the outdoors then an energetic dog may be
perfect for you. If you spend a lot of time at the computer you may prefer a
small lap dog. And if you live in the city you may want to consider a small
dog that does not require a deal of space.

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