Brushing Puppies' Teeth

Puppies begin to loose their puppy teeth when they are between 4 and 8 months old. Even though the razor-sharp teeth will be replaced with permanent adult teeth, it is important to give your puppy proper dental care. Bacteria from food residue creates placque on the teeth, which in turn can lead to decay, inflamed gums, and the possibility of painful and expensive tooth extractions. Brushing a puppy's teeth when he is young also makes the task much easier when he is fully grown.

  1. Practice

    • Prepare your puppy at a young age for having his teeth brushed. Eight to sixteen weeks of age is an ideal time. Start by massaging his lips gently for 30 to 60 seconds at a time about twice a week for several weeks. Each time, offer your puppy a small treat to reward him for his good behavior. When he is used to having his mouth handled in this way, let him smell and lick some of the toothpaste. When he is comfortable with this, smear a small amount on his lips a few times a week to let him get used to the taste and feel of it.

    Brushes

    • Use the right toothbrush and toothpaste on your puppy's teeth. Buy a toothbrush specifically designed for dogs from a pet supply store or from your vet. Dog toothbrushes are smaller than human toothbrushes and have smaller bristles. Some brushes are made to fit over your finger. If you are unable to use a brush, wrap a clean piece of gauze or a washcloth around your finger instead.

    Toothpaste

    • Use a toothpaste made for dogs. Dog toothpaste is usually made with flavorings, such as meat, that appeal to dogs. Do not use any products containing fluouride on a dog younger than six months old, because the fluouride may prevent the enamel on the puppy's teeth from developing properly. If dog toothpaste is not available, add enough water to baking soda to make a paste and brush with this instead. Never brush your puppy's teeth with human toothpaste because it is harmful to dogs. Unlike humans, dogs cannot spit after brushing, so whatever kind of toothpaste you use must be safe for your puppy to swallow.

    Technique

    • Brush your puppy's teeth two to three times each week. Hold the puppy's head under one arm, and lift up his gums gently with your fingers. With your other hand, hold the brush at a 45-degree angle to the teeth. Brush with small, cicrular strokes. Finish by brushing with vertical strokes from the gumline to the edge of the teeth. Always end brushing sessions by praising your puppy and giving him a treat. If your puppy is large or especially wiggly, have a helper on hand to hold his while you brush.

    Prevention

    • Give your puppy safe things to chew to help prevent placque buildup between brushings. Rawhide dog treats and dental chews are idea choices. Feeding dry dog food will also benefit his dental health. When your puppy's adult teeth have grown in, take him to the vet each year for a professional cleaning and dental exam.