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A daily tooth brushing with pet-safe enzymatic toothpaste is one of the best things you can do for your dog’s health. And if you get your dog used to it as a puppy, the whole process can be painless and quick, even faster than brushing your own teeth!
Dental Health Starts with Cleaning
While it seems like a simple solution, the problem with canine tooth brushing is that a lot of people don’t accustom their dog to having their teeth brushed when they’re young, which means the dog probably doesn’t like it! And if your dog doesn’t enjoy having their teeth brushed, or at least tolerate it, they probably run for the hills the second they see the toothbrush.
Start Early if You Can
While it’s certainly easier to train your dog to tolerate tooth brushing from an early age, it’s not impossible to get an older dog used to it as well. The key is patience, diligence, and lots of praise. And it’s certainly worth the effort!
Brushing your dog’s teeth daily is not a substitute for periodic professional cleanings at your veterinarian. But it will reduce tartar and plaque build-up meaning that having your dog’s teeth professional cleaned at the vet will take less time. This will hopefully eliminate the need to have teeth removed (which can end up being very expensive).
Daily Dental Care is Best
Habitual care and brushing will also give you the opportunity to peek into your dog’s mouth, examine their gums, and keep an eye on the state of their teeth (something you’re unlikely to do if you’re not brushing). It can also help keep doggy breath at bay!
If you have a puppy, get them used to brushing right away. And if your dog is a little older, it’s never too late to get them going on a daily brushing routine.
If you forget a few days, don’t panic, just pick up where you left off. Try and make dental care part of your dog’s regular routine, it's just as important as feeding, walking, and playing!