Dog Dental Care: Tooth Brushing Fundamentals
Taking care of your dog's teeth such as brushing should not become a burden to you or to your dog. Instead, you should make it an enjoyable bonding time for you and your pet. Remember to take things slowly, avoid overly restraining your dog if he shows dislike in the activity. Provide praises to your dog throughout the brushing session to make him feel comfortable. Brushing sessions should also be short and positive so that your pet will learn to look forward to this kind of activity instead of dreading it.
Daily brushing of your dog’s teeth does not only provide quality bonding time but helps prevent occurrence of dental disease such as periodontal disease, the most common canine dental disease. Periodontal disease in your pet is manifested by this signs: bad breath, loose teeth, gingivitis, chattering, drooling, loss of appetite and bleeding gums.
Tooth brushing should be introduced to your pet in his early age so that he can easily accept the procedure. Preferably, brushing should be started when your pup is 8 to 12 weeks old. Ensure to have your veterinarian check your dog's teeth before starting a tooth-brushing program. If your dog has damaged teeth or dental disease, brushing may be painful and he may even bite you just to avoid the activity. Before the actual brushing, have your pet dog get used to your looking into his mouth. Praise or reward him with treats after every successful mouth check-up.
Below is a step-by-step procedure that will help you in brushing your dog’s teeth:
- Start the session by offering your dog a taste of pet toothpaste. Pet toothpastes have a variety of flavors like poultry and malt so that your dog will like the taste. Have your dog get used to the flavor and consistency of the toothpaste. If your dog dislikes the taste of the toothpaste, try a different flavor until you find the kind that suits him. Repeat this step for a few days or until your dog looks forward to licking the paste.
- Practice running your finger along the gums of the upper teeth with the toothpaste in your finger, and then gently rub it on one of the large teeth in the front of the mouth. Have your dog feel comfortable with having something placed against his teeth and gums. When your pet is already used to the taste of the toothpaste and the finger in his mouth, you are ready for step 3.
- Place your dog on a comfortable surface before brushing. As much as possible, use minimal restraint on your pet to provide him the idea that you are not forcing him to do this activity.
- Lift your dog’s upper lip gently and place the bristles of the toothbrush along the gum line of the upper back teeth and angle slightly up, so the bristles get under the gum line. Making small circles along the gum lines, work from back to front. Avoid brushing the entire mouth at first and make brushing sessions less than 30 seconds.
- Once your dog accepts having several teeth brushed, gradually increase the number of teeth you are brushing. Provide an impression to your dog that you are just playing a game during brushing.
- Always remember to provide praises and treats every successful step of brushing your dog’s teeth so that he will start to look forward to his next brushing session.
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