- Not a substitute for professional veterinary help.
Periodontal disease occurs frequently in dogs and can have seriously scary consequences.
Periodontal disease is just as serious for pets as it is for people and, according to some estimates, it affects most dogs and cats by the time they reach three years of age.
Periodontal disease can lead to painful infections and tooth loss, so staying on top of your dog’s dental care is an important part of maintaining his health. If bacteria from tooth or gum disease goes untreated, it can enter your dog’s bloodstream causing serious kidney, liver, and heart issues. Not to mention bad breath!
If you’re not sure how to brush your dog’s teeth, and you haven’t started a routine yet, never fear! We’ve got you covered.
You can encourage healthy teeth with a regular brushing routine for your dog. It’s never too late to start, and you can help your dog adjust with plenty of praise, treats, and patience. Read up on how to brush your dog’s teeth, starting with the basics—and don’t miss this li’l puppy getting her dental care on.
Select the right dog toothbrush
The first step to pearly whites is finding the perfect canine toothbrush. Dog toothbrushes are similar to human toothbrushes, but are smaller and have much softer bristles. You can use an infant toothbrush in a pinch.
Another option? A finger toothbrush, which fits over your finger and makes cleaning those hard-to-reach areas all the easier. You can find more options here. If you’re in a bind, a clean scrap of gauze or a cloth will do the trick.
Find a dog-friendly toothpaste
Never use human toothpaste for your dog. Most contain fluoride, which is extremely toxic—and sometimes fatal—to dogs.
It’s vital to find a pet-friendly toothpaste (in fun flavours such as poultry and beef), or take the old-fashioned route and whip up a paste of 1 tablespoon baking soda and 1 teaspoon water.
How to brush your dog’s teeth step-by-step
Dr. Gary Richter, DVM, is the author of the Ultimate Pet Health Guide and a strong believer in oral care for dogs. He says, “it’s best to begin when a puppy is between 8 and 12 weeks of age; however, it’s never too late.”
He goes on to say that it can even be a fun process. “The daily brushing process should be pleasant for both you and your pet,” he says because it’s a moment of closeness between the two of you.
STEP 1: Gently pat and scratch the muzzle, slowly lifting the lip for about 30 seconds. Reward with a treat at the end of the session.
STEP 2: Repeat as above except gently run your finger over your pet’s teeth for 20-30 seconds. Reward and praise again.
STEP 3: Place a small amount of toothpaste on the toothbrush and let your pet lick it (not actually brushing yet!)–most will really enjoy the taste, but if not, try a different flavour.
STEP 4: If all is going well, try actually brushing the teeth. Remember, the upper outer surfaces are the most important, brushing for 20-30 seconds on each side.
You know your pet best. If you can accelerate the process, go ahead. If your pet is resistant at any step, stop and try again another day. Some pets may take a few weeks to get through the steps.
More dog tooth brushing tips
Some of these surprised us!
- Try brushing your dog’s teeth when he’s worn out from playtime or a good walk.
- If your dog isn’t ready for the brush, try dental wipes.
- Stop immediately if your pet shows any signs of aggression.
- You don’t have to rinse the toothpaste from the teeth.
- The lower teeth don’t need the same attention as the upper teeth.
Warning signs of dog dental problems
Flickr/Zoom in Tight
If you’re wondering about how to brush your dog’s teeth, you may also be concerned about your dog’s current dental health. Trust your gut if you’re worried about your dog’s teeth, and consult with your vet when in doubt.
Keep an eye out for the following signs of tooth trouble in your dog:
- Worse-than-normal breath
- Excessive salivation
- Swollen or bleeding gums
- Loose or missing teeth
- Tumours and cysts in the mouth
If you notice any of these symptoms, it’s definitely time to pay a visit to the vet. They’ll be able to point you in the right direction, whether it’s a routine cleaning or a more involved exam.
For most dogs, regular brushing, plenty of fresh water, and the occasional dental chew is enough to ensure a healthy set of chompers for years to come.
Further reading
- 3 Clever Ways to Stop Canine Plaque and Bad Breath (and Help Extend Your Dog’s Life)
- The Best 11 Dog Toothpastes for Clean Teeth and Healthy Gums.
- A Vet Tech Reveals 6 Great Dental Chews for Dogs
_
Top photo via Flickr/Karen