We brush our teeth every day to maintain dental hygiene, so our dogs should do the same (check Fido’s breathing now and you’ll see that’s a fair assessment). However, when you have a million other things to do, cleaning your dog’s teeth every day may not seem like a very important priority in the long run. I mean, really, how do you brush your dog’s teeth?
Spoiler alert: You have to figure this out because letting Fido’s chewing behavior go unchecked is not good. Regular brushing can help improve your dog’s dental health, including preventing bad breath and disease.
“Just like humans, dogs can develop plaque and tartar on their teeth, leading to gum disease and cavities,” Dr. Abel Gonzalez, clinical director of telemedicine veterinary medicine at The Netherlands, told Scary Mom. “Poor dental hygiene can lead to bad breath, painful infections, and tooth loss. Additionally, severe dental disease can affect a dog’s organs, including the heart and kidneys, as bacteria in the mouth can enter the bloodstream. Small breeds and brachycephalic dogs have genetic factors that make you particularly susceptible to periodontal disease.
So, now that you know you should brush your dog’s teeth, where do you start? What do you need to use? Below, Gonzalez answers frequently asked questions about brushing your dog’s teeth.
When should I start brushing my dog’s teeth?
According to Gonzalez, it’s best to start when they’re puppies to get them used to it early, but it’s never too late to start with older dogs.
How do I clean my dog’s teeth?
What’s interesting: record the entire process of brushing your dog’s teeth. If you’re starting with a puppy, Gonzalez recommends gradual dental cleaning by gently rubbing the gums and teeth with your fingers. Then, “gradually use a dog-specific toothbrush and toothpaste, and reward them with praise and treats to foster a positive bond.”
But how exactly do you use a toothbrush and toothpaste on your dog? Do you treat it like regular brushing? To be honest, it’s not too far away. Gonzalez offers the following tips and tricks for brushing your dog’s teeth:
- “Make sure your dog is calm, apply a small amount of dog-friendly toothpaste to your dog’s toothbrush and gently lift your dog’s lips. Brush in circular motions, focusing on the gum line, for about 30 seconds on each side.”
- Gonzalez recommends using a soft-bristled toothbrush or a finger brush designed for dogs, and “always use toothpaste formulated specifically for dogs and avoid human toothpaste as it is toxic to dogs.”
- He recommends not brushing too hard to prevent gum damage.
- Gonzalez also warns against ignoring bad breath. Contrary to what you may think, “bad breath should not be considered normal as it often indicates the presence of underlying dental disease.”
- Gonzalez says regular brushing is key to maintaining a healthy mouth. He also recommends using dental chews and water additives as adjuncts to reduce plaque and tartar buildup. “Regular brushing combined with these aids can significantly improve your dog’s dental health,” he explains.
Although it may seem daunting at first, brushing your dog’s teeth is also a cliché, but that’s true of many things: practice makes perfect. And, really, nothing is perfect here, so the pressure is off! It’s important that you make some effort to keep your dog’s teeth and the toothbrush in regular contact.
When should I see a professional?
Gonzalez recommends scheduling a professional cleaning every year or as recommended by your veterinarian. “If you notice bad breath, visible tartar, swollen gums, or changes in eating habits, consult your veterinarian immediately,” he says. “Breeds prone to dental problems may need cleanings twice a year.”
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