8 Steps to Clean Your Dogโ€™s Teeth Properly

BY | July 03 | COMMENTS PUBLISHED BY

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If there is one part of canine grooming that often gets overlooked, it is their teeth. The vast majority of dog owners only remember to brush their canines coat until it looks shiny and clips nails so that the canines can walk without making any noise.Just like it is for humans, brushing is an important activity for canines because it cleans plaque, which leads to problems such as gum disease, tooth decay, and bad breath. Luckily, you donโ€™t have to visit the vet to clean your dogโ€™s teeth properly. By following these eight steps, you will be able to do it from the comfort of your home.

  1. Buy a toothbrush and toothpasteVisit nearby pet stores or online pet supply websites to purchase a toothbrush for your canine. The toothbrush should have a long and curved handle so that you can reach all the teeth. You can also buy flavored toothpaste that is dog-friendly. Never use your toothpaste in your canineโ€™s mouth because it isnโ€™t suitable.
  2. Select a time for brushingOnce you have bought the equipment for brushing the teeth of your canine, you need to pick a time where your canine is relaxed and calm. You can brush your canineโ€™s teeth after you have taken it for a walk because it wonโ€™t have the energy to make your life difficult.
  3. Choose a location You need to pick a location in your house that has enough space and lighting so that your canine is comfortable. If you have enough space in your bathroom, you can choose to brush your canineโ€™s teeth over there. Otherwise, you can always do it in your backyard.
  4. Make your canine comfortable You need to ensure your canine is comfortable with getting its teeth brushed. First, you need to sit or kneel beside your canine so that it doesnโ€™t feel threatened. Then, you need to touch the teeth and gums of your canine with your fingers till it feels comfortable.
  5. Taste test Give your canine a sample of the toothpaste so that it gets used to the texture and taste. You can also see which flavor of toothpaste your canine likes. Also, you can give toothpaste as a reward for good behavior.
  6. Brush the front part of the teeth First, you need to focus on brushing the front part of your canineโ€™s teeth. The bristles should reach the gums when you are brushing its teeth. Brush each tooth for at least two to three seconds before moving on to the next one.
  7. Brush back part of the teeth If your canine doesnโ€™t have any problem with brushing, you can brush the inside part of its teeth. At first, it will be challenging as it is harder to brush the inside part. Make sure your canine is comfortable and calm when you are doing this.
  8. Treats and praise Once you have finished brushing your canineโ€™s teeth, give it a couple of treats. You can also praise your canine for being a good dog during the entire procedure. When you do this, your canine will look forward to more brushing sessions.

By following these eight simple steps, you will be able to clean your dogโ€™s teeth properly. If you have any queries, feel free to leave a comment below.

White Teeth For A Healthier Dog!

Ever smelt the sting of bad breath every time your dog gave you a kiss? Ever notice that your dogโ€™s teeth are not as white as you want them to be? Your dogโ€™s teeth are as important to him as your own are to you. Itโ€™s time to make sure his mouth stays clean and healthy.Several statistics show that over 80% of dogs suffer from anyone kind of dental disease even before they turn three years old. The veterinarian may be the one keeping your dogโ€™s teeth in good health, but there are a few tips that you can follow at home to help out. This will drastically decrease the chances of your dog getting dental diseases.Dental care for puppiesTo help your dog to get used to you cleaning his mouth youโ€™ll have to start early. Start when he is still a puppy.A puppy will have a full set of his temporary teeth by the time he is eight weeks old. Make it a game and play with him. Use a soft toothbrush to gently brush his teeth while keeping his mouth open.The temporary teeth will fall out by the time he is four months old. Heโ€™ll have his next set of teeth by the time he reaches seven months. These teeth will need more care as your dog will have them for the rest of his life.Basic dental care for adult dogsBad breath is the first indicator of unhealthy teeth in dogs. If it gets worse, then your dog will start drooling and pawing at his mouth in irritation. He will also start having trouble eating his food.Youโ€™ll need to keep several points in mind while cleaning your dogโ€™s teeth. You need to first remember that like us, dogs also have different types of teeth for different purposes. Tartar does not accumulate at the same rate o all the teeth.

  1. Canines:

These are the large pointy teeth on the sides of your dogโ€™s mouth. They are used for holding food or toys in place by your dog. Brushing is the best way to clean these teeth.

  1. Incisors:

These are the smaller front teeth and number 12 in total. These teeth are used while grooming and for biting softer foods. These also require brushing to be kept clean.

  1. Premolars:

Premolars are larger teeth located behind the canines. They are both sharp and multi-rooted. Dogs use them to cut large food items. These teeth also need to be brushed. You can also use dental food or chews to trick your dog into cleaning them himself.

  1. Molars:

This set is the largest of your dogโ€™s teeth and the hardest to reach as they are located at the back of his mouth. These teeth help grind harder foods. Use dental foods to keep them healthy as brushing these teeth is harder. You can also mix additives that are designed to reduce tartar formation in his drinking water.

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