Some of you may have tried brushing your pet’s teeth in the past only to be met with less than successful results. Others of you have never tried but would like your pooch to keep his/her pearly whites and fresh breath! Below is a guide to help you with getting to the point where your pooch will allow you to brush his/her (we’ll use the feminine from here on) teeth.
The first rule of thumb is this….KEEP IT FUN!. If your dog associates brushing teeth with anything painful or uncomfortable, she won’t want you to continue doing it.
Start by using your bare finger or wrap your finger in some gauze or a stockinette (leggings work OK too!). The using something that your dog likes gently touch the outside of her mouth. Something that she likes can be peanut butter (low fat is better), chicken broth, etc. Make sure that your pup does not get too much of this, just enough for a good taste.
Slowly, over a period of days to weeks increase the coverage of the brushing to include the rest of her mouth and gums. If at any time she does not like what you are doing, STOP. Remember the most important part that your pup must like this teeth brushing for you to be successful at it.
Eventually, upgrade to a soft bristled brush or finger brush and clean the entire mouth.
Important Points!!!
1) Keep it Fun!
2) If you don’t brush more than 3 times per week, you are wasting your time. Consistency is the key!
3) It typically takes a while to get your pooch used to having his or her teeth brushed. Have patience!
4) When you graduate to using toothpaste, use an animal toothpaste ONLY! Human toothpaste is designed not to be swallowed.
For an additional source for dental care, visit AAHA’s website by clicking here!
If you have any further questions, please don’t hesitate to give us a call!
Dr. Jay Taylor
