Did you know that keeping your dog's teeth clean can help them live longer?
Dental hygiene is an important (and often forgotten!) aspect of your dog's overall health and well-being. Bad teeth can lead to a variety of health problems, including gum disease, tooth decay, and even heart disease!
In this blog post, we'll explore six tips for maintaining your dog's dental hygiene and keeping their teeth and gums healthy, ultimately keeping your furbaby happy and by your side for as long as possible.
1. Regular brushing
Just like humans, dogs need to have their teeth brushed regularly to prevent plaque buildup and maintain good dental hygiene. In an ideal situation, you might brush your dog's teeth every day, but let's face it, we're all busy. Even brushing just once or twice a week can make a BIG difference.
Use a toothbrush and toothpaste specifically designed and flavoured to make the experience more enjoyable for your furry friend. It's important to introduce the toothbrush gradually so your dog becomes comfortable with the process. Start by letting them sniff the toothpaste, using your finger to rub the teeth and gums. Gradually work up to brushing their teeth with the toothbrush for longer periods of time.
Do NOT use toothpaste designed for humans as it may contain some ingredients that are highly toxic to dogs.
2. Dental chews and toys
Dental chews and toys can help clean your dog's teeth and promote good dental hygiene. Look for products that are specifically designed to clean teeth and massage gums. Talk to your vet about what they recommend specifically for your pup's size and age.
Be sure to supervise your dog while they are chewing to prevent choking or swallowing large pieces.
3. Regular dental checkups
Regular dental checkups with your veterinarian are an important aspect of your dog's dental hygiene. During a dental exam, your vet will check for signs of gum disease, tooth decay, and other dental issues. They might recommend a professional cleaning if your dog's teeth are particularly dirty or if they have significant plaque buildup.
It's important to catch dental problems early, as they can lead to more serious health issues, like heart disease, if left untreated.
4. Professional dental cleaning
When the vet says your pupper needs a professional dental cleaning, we recommend you do it! During a professional cleaning, your veterinarian will use special tools to remove plaque and tartar buildup from your dog's teeth and under the gumline. This procedure is done under anesthesia to ensure your dog is comfortable and safe. This is often not recommended for older dogs, so do take care of your dog while they are young!
5. Healthy diet
A healthy diet also plays an important part in your dog's dental hygiene. Choose high-quality dog food that is free from fillers and additives, and avoid giving your dog sugary treats or human food. Sugary treats can contribute to plaque buildup and tooth decay, while human food can be high in salt and other ingredients that can be harmful to your dog's teeth and gums.
6. Fresh water
Providing your dog with fresh, clean water at all times helps rinse away bacteria and food particles that contribute to plaque buildup and gum disease. Be sure to change your dog's water bowl daily and clean it regularly to prevent bacterial growth!
All of these recommendations can still be a way for your to bond with your dog if you just make it a fun and engaging part of your routine. And always remember...
A healthy mouth means to a healthy dog, and a healthy dog will live a long and happy life by your side.
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