The Key to Clean Canine Teeth
Every dog deserves a healthy, clean set of chompers, and you can help them get there.
- Visit your vet. Going to the vet is no fun for pets, but it’s necessary when it comes to dental health. Your vet can keep an eye out for tartar buildup or infections and act before things get worse. Of course, they can also clean your dog’s teeth.
- Get some dental treats. For the canine that loves to chow down on anything and everything, you can’t go wrong. These special snacks feed your furry friend and help keep his teeth clean at the same time, making everybody happy. There are plenty of options out there so don’t be afraid to experiment and see what works. He might hate one treat but love another.
- Brush his teeth at home. Your pup will probably resist, but with time, he’ll adjust. Things will get easier if you’re persistent and consistent. Chicken-, beef-, or peanut butter-flavored toothpaste makes a world of difference. Don’t use human toothpaste, though, even if it saves a trip to the pet store.
- Give him something to chew. Treats are great, but so are plaque-removing chew toys. They don’t just make things a little easier for you, they can be pretty inexpensive, too. Toys made of rubber or nylon work great. Avoid anything that could break into pieces and choke your pet or make him sick (it can happen, even if he isn’t an aggressive chewer). To be truly safe, supervise your dog when he is chewing and check with your vet for the best toy options.
- Stay away from human junk food (among other things). It’s never a good idea to give your dog people food to eat. He might eventually refuse to eat dog food, making mealtimes difficult and frustrating. With enough of it, you could damage Fido’s health, including the health of his teeth. Junk food is bad enough for you – imagine what it could do to animals!
- Work on creating a routine. Pick a time to brush his teeth. Some experts say you should brush your dog’s teeth every day, while others claim once or twice a week is enough. This is where your vet can step in and help you work out a plan.