Do You Know How to Care for Your Dog’s Teeth?

Your furry friend relies on you to ensure they have a healthy mouth and teeth. If your dog has dental problems, they can be as much of a concern as they are for humans. Poor dental hygiene can lead to serious issues like heart, kidney, and liver disease, not to mention gingivitis, plaque, and tartar buildup.

Check for any of the following signs on a regular basis and see your vet if any of these are present:

• Change in eating or chewing habits
• Depressed – not being their usual happy self
• Stinky breath
• Pawing at the mouth or face
• Drooling to excess
• Missing, discolored, broken, crooked, or misaligned teeth
• Sore red and bleeding gums
• Tartar crust along the gumline (brownish-yellow)
• Growths or bumps in the mouth

Follow these dental cleaning tips for dogs:

Start the teeth cleaning process when they are a puppy if possible. It can be more challenging to start this with an adult dog if they are not used to it.

Do NOT use human toothpaste. Fluoride can be poisonous to dogs. You MUST buy toothpaste specially formulated and safe for dogs.

Buy a double-headed toothbrush at the pet store for dogs that has the brushes angled at 45 degrees. This will enable you to clean below the gumline.

The best time to try to brush their teeth would be when they are relaxed – after a lot of exercise for example. If they are too hyper, it will feel like a losing battle because it will be difficult for them to stay still.

It’s better to brush for shorter periods of time until they get used to it. It’s important not to force it on them.

Speak to them in a calming voice. Getting impatient with them will only work against you.

Reward them after for good behavior. They will then associate teeth brushing with a tasty treat after. People aren’t the only ones who like an incentive after all!

It is better to feed your dog hard and crunchy food vs. soft food because soft can end up sticking to teeth, which can lead to tooth decay.

Give your dog bones and toys from a pet store to chew on to ensure that they are safe. If objects are too hard they could actually break teeth. Chewing on things can help strengthen teeth and get rid of buildup.

Take your dog to get a checkup at the veterinarian every six to twelve months. It can save you lots of money in the long run, and possibly even save your dog’s life!

Looking for a family or cosmetic dentist in Surrey? Call us at Healthy Smiles Family Dentistry and book an appointment today!