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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 donโt have to visit the vet to clean your dogโs
teeth properly. By following these eight steps, you will be able
to do it from the comfort of your home.
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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 canineโs mouth because it isnโt
suitable.
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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 canineโs teeth after you have taken it for a walk
because it wonโt have the energy to make your life difficult.
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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 canineโs teeth over
there. Otherwise, you can always do it in your backyard.
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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 doesnโt feel threatened. Then, you need to touch the
teeth and gums of your canine with your fingers till it feels
comfortable.
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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.
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Brush the front part of the teeth First,
you need to focus on brushing the front part of your canineโs
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.
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Brush back part of the teeth If your
canine doesnโt 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.
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Treats and praise Once you have finished
brushing your canineโs 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 dogโs 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 dogโs teeth
are not as white as you want them to be? Your dogโs teeth are as
important to him as your own are to you. Itโs 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 dogโs 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 youโll 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. Heโll 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.Youโll need to keep several points in mind
while cleaning your dogโs 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.
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Canines:
These are the large pointy teeth on the
sides of your dogโs mouth. They are used for holding food or toys
in place by your dog. Brushing is the best way to clean these
teeth.
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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.
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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.
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Molars:
This set is the largest of your dogโs 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.