Pomeranian Tooth Care

Dental care is as important for animals as it is for human beings. Among the different dog breeds, the Pomeranian is one of the most susceptible breeds to tooth decay. Daily brushing of the teeth and regular dental checkups play a significant role in keeping the breed's teeth in good shape and preventing oral problems.

  1. When to Begin Brushing

    • Introduce your Pomeranian pup to tooth care when it is about three-months-old, according to Pomeranian.org. However, even if your Pom is older, it is never too late to begin practicing dental hygiene. Always use a toothbrush and toothpaste specifically made for dogs. Human toothbrushes are not meant for cleaning dogs' teeth, while human toothpastes are toxic to dogs. Ask your vet to recommend an enzymatic toothpaste to fight bacteria buildup. It may take a while, but your Pomeranian will gradually accept brushing of teeth as a routine practice, just like bathing, grooming and walking. It may take about four to six weeks for your pet to get comfortable with the daily brushing schedule.

    Training for Brushing

    • Get the dog used to the idea of getting its teeth touched by you. Run your fingers over the dog's teeth for about five minutes. The dog may resist, but do not give up. This helps to prepare the dog for the finger toothbrush. When you introduce the toothbrush, do not use toothpaste for the first seven days. Thereafter, begin using the toothpaste recommended by your vet. Use small amounts to get the dog accustomed to the taste. Once your Pom is comfortable with finger brushing and the taste of the toothpaste, switch to regular dog toothbrush. The dog may not welcome the toothbrush, but with praise and rewards, it will allow you to brush its teeth everyday.

    Dos and Don'ts

    • Never use your own toothpaste for dogs, as it may lead to toxicity. There is no substitute for brushing when it comes to cleaning of the teeth. Alternatives, such as doggie chews and raw hide, will only provide partial protection. Get professional cleaning done every year to remove plaque and tartar buildup. In addition, get an annual dental examination done.

    Signs of Tooth Problems

    • Some signs of tooth problems in Pomeranians include, infected gums, crooked growth of teeth, bad breath, pain while eating, cracked teeth and extremely bad odor from the mouth. Consult the vet immediately if any of these signs are present. If your Pomeranian is still a puppy, keep a close watch on the tooth change. If baby teeth do not fall out as expected, consult a vet.