How to Look Inside a Dog's Mouth Without Getting Bitten

You may not relish going there, but the inside of your dog's mouth is a place you must occasionally visit. Sometimes you need to open its mouth to get it to take medicine, while other times you may be inspecting for signs of infection or disease. You may even simply be brushing its teeth. Whatever the reason, though, you don't want your pooch clamping down on your fingers. By using the right method, you'll reduce the risk of getting bitten when looking inside your dog's mouth.

Instructions

    • 1

      Talk gently to your dog to keep it calm. Don't jerk your dog around into position or use harsh commands; you need it to relax and not feel threatened.

    • 2

      Place your hand over the top of your dog's muzzle so that your thumb and fingers are on opposite sides of its mouth.

    • 3

      Tilt your dog's head back, which makes the jaw open slightly. Using the hand holding the top of the muzzle, slide your thumb into the mouth so that it presses against the roof. Fold the upper lip inward as you slide in your thumb. With the lip folded in, your dog is less likely to bite down.

    • 4

      Pull the lower jaw down using your other hand by sticking a finger against the bottom row of teeth and gently pulling down.