Domestic dogs are extremely prone to gum diseases. These conditions are caused by food and bacteria buildup along the gum line and between the teeth. Minerals in the dog's saliva will readily combine with plaque to form large amounts of tartar on the teeth. The tartar buildup irritates the dog's gums and causes gingivitis. Tartar buildup will cause the gums to separate from the teeth. This separation will form pockets where bacteria will flourish. This is a painful condition that causes abscesses and tooth loss. The bacteria can even affect the heart. Regular dental cleaning helps prevent this.
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Purchasing Necessary Supplies
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Purchase a pet toothpaste and a pet toothbrush. These are sold at veterinarian offices and pet stores. It is very important to use a toothpaste made specifically for dogs, so it does not upset the canine digestive tract. Most dog toothpastes contain a pleasing flavor that a dog will enjoy, which makes brushing easier for the human and less unpleasant for the dog.
Most retailers also sell sponges and clothes that an owner can utilize to clean his dog's teeth. Each dog is unique, and finding the best tool may take trying all that are available. It is often easier to use a tiny sponge or cloth for little dogs so you can more easily reach inside their mouths to reach the back teeth.
Sampling the Toothpaste
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Squeeze a small amount of toothpaste out onto your finger and offer it to the dog. The dog will sniff it first and then should readily lick it off your finger. This helps the dog adjust to the taste and even welcome it as a treat. Praise your dog for trying the toothpaste. You can give the dog a treat to enjoy for her bravery at trying the toothpaste. If the dog does not like the taste of the toothpaste, you will need to try another brand or flavor that she will enjoy. Try the toothpaste taste exercise for three days before you try to actually touch your dog's teeth.
Rub the Teeth
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Rub your dog's teeth simply using your finger covered in toothpaste once your dog seems to enjoy the flavor of the toothpaste. Start to rub one of the large canine teeth. If the dog does not seem to mind this experience, move on to one of the back teeth and the gums. Praise your dog while you rub his teeth and gums.
Apply Toothpaste
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Apply toothpaste to the toothbrush, dental sponge or dental cloth. Let your dog lick off the toothpaste. Praise your dog every time she licks off the toothpaste. Do this daily for a week before attempting to brush your dog's teeth.
Brushing Your Dog's Teeth
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Praise your dog as you begin to gently move the toothbrush, sponge or cloth onto your dog's teeth. Slowly begin to brush or rub. Offer reassurance and consistent praise during the entire process.
Start with the dog's large canines and then work your way back toward the molars. At this point, most dogs will accept having a few teeth brushed each day, so gradually attempt to increase the number of teeth brushed. Never force your dog to undergo the process. Always offer lots of praise for the few teeth you manage to brush.
Daily Brushing
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Always brush your dog's teeth daily. When you are done brushing, offer a treat to your dog with plenty of praise. Maintain a regular dental-exam schedule with your veterinarian to provide the best oral health for your dog.
Plaque-Removing Toys
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Provide several plaque-removing toys for your dog to enjoy on a daily basis. These toys can easily be purchased at pet stores or online. They help to remove plaque buildup by encouraging the dog to chew.
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