Dogs love to explore the world through their mouth, so it's important to take care of their teeth. Dogs should have their mouths checked at least twice a year by a vet or vet nurse. Just like humans, dogs need a regular regime to care for their teeth and gums at home.
If plaque isn't removed from the surface of the teeth daily, it will harden and become tartar. Existing tartar on the teeth will provide a platform for further dental plaque to attach to. The very best way you can care for your dog's teeth is with a daily toothbrushing routine.
And this short film is designed to show you how. You should choose a quiet place for the toothbrushing training and keep the single steps of the training short. Be sure to reward your dog with verbal praise or a treat, so that he understands when he is doing what you want him to.
Please use a toothbrush with medium bristles and the correct size for the size of your dog. A special angulation of the head of the toothbrush could be helpful for effective cleaning. It is essential that you use a pet toothpaste without fluoride or xylitol, and you should have a bowl of fresh water nearby.
First, smear a small amount of the pet friendly toothpaste on your fingertip and allow your dog to lick and taste the toothpaste. Then insert your finger under the top lip on the side of the dog's face and rub your fingertip on the teeth. Slide your finger further back inside the cheek.
Wet the toothbrush with water and add some toothpaste, pushing it down into the bristles. Lift the top lip on one side of the mouth, gently brush the outside of the canine teeth. To get to the molar teeth further back in the dog's mouth, you will need to slip the toothbrush past the corner of the lips inside the cheeks.
To be able to brush the lower teeth, the dog's mouth will need to open slightly. Now brush the incisors. Be careful.
Dogs often don't feel very comfortable with brushing the front teeth. With some practise, you can even brush the inside of all teeth. Pedigree dentists is an oral care chew that reduces tartar buildup by up to 80% when fed daily.
For further information, please contact your vet.
